Pity the poor pool owner. All we want is a clean pool at a reasonable cost. We just want the water to be clear and inviting for ourselves, our kids and our neighbors. In the 21st century, it seems like all we get are 19th-century treatments or new technologies that cost a fortune.
Most people have a love/hate relationship with their pool. We love the convenience of being able to cool off in hot weather and as a social center for family and friends. But we hate it when the water suddenly turns green or cloudy when we rush off to the pool store to spend $200 on toxic chemicals to bring the water back to normal. All that time and money and hassle. Does it really have to be like this?
Here’s what I know and what I’ve learned:
Like most pool owners, I asked myself if there are viable alternatives to traditional chlorine pools. But when I asked the so called “professionals” all I got was a condescending look and advice to just stick with the program, or I’d end up with a mess on my hands. So, there being few places to look outside my experience, I just decided to go with my own experience.
All disinfection is an oxidation process. For example, chlorine (or bromine or hydrogen peroxide) molecules in water combine with contaminants in the water and then oxidize up and out of the surface of the pool. Bacteria, viruses, and algae removed from pool water by this oxidation process. Beyond disinfection, the second line of defense is your pool filter (you already have a filter on your pool).
There are, however, better and safer ways to accomplish oxidation than cooking up a chemical soup to maintain safe, clear pool water.
What about salt pools?
Salt pools are chlorine pools. Salt systems create chlorine from salt added to the water and are no different than regular chlorine pools. The salt equipment requires regular servicing and salt pools have the additional problem of being extremely corrosive to decks, ladders, and pool surfaces. Most pool owners who have had salt pools are looking for an alternative with fewer problems.
Even though salt systems have their issues chlorine still reigns supreme for pool sanitation and a salt pool is one of the lowest chlorine solutions available. If a salt system is used in conjunction with a UV or Ozone system chlorine levels can be kept even lower.
If you are looking to get away from chlorine you are likely in for a world of headaches, frustration and potentially swimming in unsafe water. the fact of the matter is nothing provides residual protection like chlorine and that is why its the best.
