Exploring the Composure of Saltwater Plunge Pools
As the hot summer sun beats down, the appeal of a refreshing dip in a pool becomes irresistible. Saltwater plunge pools have gained immense popularity among the options available due to their unique blend of relaxation and health benefits.
In this article, we will delve into what a saltwater plunge pool is, what you need to know about it, the fascinating technology behind salt chlorine generators, and whether plunge pools can be saltwater based.
We will also introduce you to Plunge Pool Concepts in Easton, Massachusetts, a trusted source for plunge pool expertise.
What to Know About Saltwater Pools
Saltwater pools, in essence, are swimming pools sanitized with the help of a salt chlorine generator rather than traditional chlorine tablets or liquid chlorine. These pools offer a more natural and gentle swimming experience, making them increasingly popular among homeowners and commercial establishments. However, there are several vital aspects to consider when contemplating a saltwater pool.
Salt Levels
Saltwater pools contain salt, but the concentration is much lower than seawater. The salt content typically ranges between 2,500 to 3,500 parts per million (ppm), whereas seawater contains around 35,000 ppm. This lower salt level ensures the water is comfortable for swimming without seawater’s harsh taste and feel.
Health Benefits
Saltwater is known for its soothing properties, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Swimming in a saltwater pool can leave your skin feeling soft and smooth and help alleviate certain skin conditions.
A few of the wonderful health benefits include:
- Healthy Breathing: Inhaling chlorine often aggravates the senses, while inhaling salt particles thins mucus in the lungs, promoting healthy breathing.
- Exfoliating Agent: Salt is a natural exfoliant, making it highly effective for people with sensitive skin and those who suffer from acne, eczema and scaling psoriatic skin conditions.
- Gentle on the Eyes: Chlorine can irritate eyes. Salt systems produce chlorine; however, it acts as a natural disinfectant, making it softer on your eyes.
- Alleviate Stress and Anxiety: Saltwater is known to help the body’s natural relaxation process, which can aid in depression and relieve stress.
- Environmentally Friendly: Compared to traditional chlorine pools, which can have a heavy chlorine smell, any smell from a saltwater pool will be minimal at best.
- Storage and Use: If chlorine is not stored and used properly it can be corrosive, poisonous and even a fire hazard. With a saltwater generator, there is no need to keep chlorine and worry about its use, eliminating these health risks.
Maintenance
While saltwater pools are generally easier to maintain than traditional chlorinated pools, they are not entirely maintenance-free. Regular checks on salt levels, pH balance, and the performance of the salt chlorine generator are essential to ensure crystal-clear water.
The Salt Chlorine Generator
The heart of any saltwater pool is the salt chlorine generator, a technological marvel that converts salt into chlorine to sanitize the water. This process is both efficient and environmentally friendly. But how does it work?
Salt Cell
The critical component of the generator is the salt cell, a chamber equipped with titanium plates. These plates are coated with a thin layer of ruthenium or iridium, which are excellent conductors of electricity.
Electrolysis
As pool water passes through the salt cell, a low-voltage electrical current is applied to the titanium plates. This electrical current causes a chemical reaction known as electrolysis, which splits the salt molecules (NaCl) into sodium ions (Na+) and chlorine ions (Cl-).
Chlorine Production
The chlorine ions released during electrolysis combine with the sodium ions to form hypochlorous acid (HOCl), a powerful sanitizer. Hypochlorous acid effectively kills bacteria, algae, and other contaminants in the pool water, keeping it safe and clean for swimmers.
pH Regulation
One of the advantages of saltwater pools is their ability to help regulate pH levels naturally. The byproduct of this electrolysis process, sodium hydroxide (NaOH), helps stabilize the pH, reducing the need for additional pH-adjusting chemicals.
Can Plunge Pools Have Saltwater?
Yes, plunge pools, often appreciated for their compact size and ease of maintenance, can indeed have saltwater. The addition of salt not only provides a more natural buoyancy experience but also offers various therapeutic health benefits, including improved skin health and relaxation.
However, the suitability of a plunge pool for saltwater depends on several factors, including the pool’s construction materials and the individual’s maintenance needs.
Materials
At Plunge Pool Concepts, our plunge pools are constructed with steel-reinforced concrete shells and reinforced with PVC in the interior, which makes them excellent for saltwater.
Size
As mentioned, ease of maintenance, cost is also an excellent factor in choosing a saltwater plunge pool. Because plunge pools are smaller than traditional pools, they will require less salt than larger pools, which can be a significant cost consideration. In addition, the need to purchase chlorine drops drastically and the continuous need for chemical testing is reduced.
Consult a Professional
Before deciding on a plunge pool saltwater oasis, it’s crucial to consult with a plunge pool professional.
Plunge Pool Concepts in Easton, Massachusetts Offering Plunge Pools Nationwide
Plunge Pool Concepts in Easton, Massachusetts, is the source you can trust for expertise and guidance if you are considering a saltwater plunge pool. Plunge Pool Concepts specializes in designing and constructing saltwater plunge pools, as all of our plunge pool designs come with a salt system.
As property size and lifestyles differ, we have a variety of saltwater plunge pool styles to meet individual needs, from adding benches, tanning ledges, heaters, hydrotherapy jets, swim tethers and more.
Let us help you understand further the technology behind salt chlorine generators, saltwater pool maintenance and the essential steps in creating your perfect saltwater plunge pool environment.
Contact Plunge Pool Concepts today. We provide a wide variety of plunge pools nationwide.
