Ecosmarte Pool

In recent years, many pool owners have been forced to convert to salt water swimming pools. An in-ground pool with a filtration and chlorine generation system can cost well over $5,000. This has turned many people away from the idea of owning a salt water pool. However, converting to salt water systems is becoming cheaper which is causing many to reconsider. This is especially true for above ground pool owners. Despite this, there are many problems to consider with an above ground salt water pool.

One of the challenges many standard pool owners face as they consider conversion to salt is how the salt will affect the pipes. Salt is corrosive. The higher the salt levels the more corrosive it can be. In-ground pool owners are often concerned with how the salt will affect underground pipes. Dealing with broken water pipes for an in-ground system can be quite costly. Above ground pool owners though don’t necessarily have those same concerns. They do however have to deal with splash outs. Splashing normal tap water onto grass and pool furniture is no cause for concern, but years of splashing salt water can lead to sterile soil and costly replacement of backyard furniture.

Converting to an above ground salt water pool is not simply a matter of adding salt. You need to find the right chlorine generation system and these systems are not inexpensive. Neither is the large amount of salt that must be added when you first start operating above ground salt water pools.

Keep in mind that converting to salt water does not mean that your pool will now be maintenance free; the usual care is needed. Cleaning the pool is still going to be required just as it is with any other system. You will also need to keep track of your pools pH and chlorine levels. Some are under the impression that once you convert to salt water that you never have to worry about chlorine and to an extent that is true. Since the system constantly creates its own chlorine, you should not have to physically add or shock the system with large amounts of chemicals. This balance is not easily achieved, and most people do end up having to add extra chlorine. You have to be willing to test your pool’s water balance on a regular basis. Failure to do so will tax the chlorine generation cells possibly leading to early break down.

Regular testing will also ensure that swimmers aren’t irritated by elevated pH levels. You will also need to maintain the right salinity. Since water evaporation leaves the salt behind, you will need to refill the pool on a regular basis to keep salinity levels in the correct range.

Obviously despite the claims, salt water pools are anything but maintenance free. They require constant upkeep and even the addition of the very chemical you were trying to avoid. Instead many are starting to consider salt and chlorine free pool systems. Without expensive systems and high upkeep, you can still have a crystal clear pool with the benefit of no chemicals.