New Option for Pool Disinfection: The Principle and Advantages of Salt-Chlorine Machines
The salt chlorine generator (or salt Chlorinator) is a device that uses the principle of electrolysis to convert the dissolved salt in the pool water into pure chlorine. It can automatically disinfect the pool without the need for manual contact with powerful chlorine disinfectants. This process is a very popular and low-maintenance alternative to the traditional chlorine treatment method.
The working principle of the salt water generator
This system consists of two main parts: the control board and a salt tank with titanium plates.
Adding salt: Add low-concentration common table salt (sodium chloride) directly to the pool water (usually 2800 to 4200 parts per million, much lower than the concentration of seawater).
Electrolysis: When the pool water circulates through the salt tank, the weak current generated by the control board flows between the titanium plates.
Chlorine generation: This current decomposes the salt and water molecules, generating hypochlorous acid and sodium hypochlorite, which are disinfectants capable of killing bacteria and algae.
Recovery: After the chlorine disinfects the water, the molecules recombine into salt, and this cycle continues, meaning that the salt can be recycled, unless water loss (such as splashing, backwashing) requires supplementation, in which case supplementation is rarely necessary.
Advantages and disadvantages of the salt chlorine disinifier
The salt chlorine disinifier has several advantages, but there are also some disadvantages to consider.
Salt chlorine machine and advantages & disadvantages
Advantages
Reduced maintenance: Automatically generates chlorine without the need for regular manual addition of chemicals.
Improved water quality: Can produce softer water, more gentle on the skin, eyes, and hair, and significantly reduces the pungent "chlorine smell".
Long-term cost-effective: By eliminating the cost of regularly purchasing packaged chlorine and strong treatment agents, it can save expenses in the long run.
Continuous disinfection: Can maintain a stable and balanced chlorine content in the pool, preventing the common chlorine fluctuations that occur when manually adding medication. pH management: The salt system naturally causes the pH value to rise, requiring regular monitoring and the use of other chemicals (such as hydrochloric acid) for adjustment.
Disadvantages
Higher initial cost: Compared to traditional systems, this power generation system has a higher initial purchase and installation cost.
Corrosion risk: Salt is corrosive and, if not properly maintained, may damage metal equipment (ladders, fixtures) and certain types of stone or concrete cornices) over time.
Salt battery replacement cost: The lifespan of the salt battery is limited (usually 3 to 7 years), and it needs to be replaced regularly, which can be costly.
Popular brands of the salt chlorinator system for inground pool
The main manufacturers of pool salt chlorinator suitable for residential swimming pools include Hayward, PentaTire, Genia/Zozi, CircuPool, and HOTOOK.
Experts and users typically recommend specific models such as: Hayward AquaRite: Known as the top-selling chlorine generator in North America, it is renowned for its easy installation and operation and user-friendly control panel.
PentaTire IntelliChlor: Praised for safely and effectively generating chlorine gas and requiring no handling and storage of chemicals. IntelliChlor IC20 and IC40 are popular models.
CircuPool CORE35: Designed to be sturdy and durable for backyard pool owners, with significant value.
HOTOOK SCS: With a compact design for easy installation, a sturdy structure, and a transparent window for quick and intuitive inspection of filter elements.
APX Performance E-CHLOR: A "compact" plug-in device with an "integrated" design, capable of continuously generating chlorine in colder water. This is a key advantage in certain climatic conditions.