A saltwater pool works by using a salt cell, also known as a salt chlorinator, to convert salt into chlorine through a process called electrolysis. Here's how it works:
Salt is added to the pool water in a specific concentration, usually around 3,000 parts per million (ppm).
The salt water flows through the salt cell, which contains two electrodes separated by a thin membrane.
When an electric current is applied to the electrodes, a chemical reaction occurs that splits the salt molecules into sodium and chlorine.
The chlorine then reacts with the water to form hypochlorous acid, which is a powerful disinfectant that kills bacteria and other microorganisms in the pool.
The hypochlorous acid eventually breaks down into chloride ions and hydrogen ions, which then recombine with more sodium ions to form salt again, restarting the cycle.
The advantage of a saltwater pool is that it provides a steady, controlled release of chlorine into the pool water, rather than the large, occasional doses of chlorine that are required with traditional chlorine pools. This can result in a more stable and comfortable swimming environment, with less harsh chemicals and fewer fluctuations in pH levels. Additionally, because the salt cell continually generates chlorine, it eliminates the need for manual chlorine dosing, making pool maintenance easier and more convenient.