Introduction
Hey Property Managers, listen up! Every year, I get at least five requests to bid on upgrading commercial pools to saltwater systems. Usually, these come from high-level managers who either have a saltwater pool at home or have heard the myth that saltwater pools are chlorine-free. Intriguing, right? If you're toying with the idea of making the switch, you're not alone. But before you dive in, let's sift through the pros and cons to see if it's really worth the splash.
Pros of Converting to Saltwater Systems
1. Enhanced User Experience
Soft Water Feel: Saltwater pools offer a softer ‘feel’ on the skin, which many swimmers find more comfortable.
2. Lower Chlorine Levels
Gentler on Eyes and Skin: The chlorine generated from salt is usually less concentrated, reducing skin and eye irritation.
3. Perceived Reduced Costs
Salt vs. Chlorine Pricing: While salt per pound may initially appear cheaper than liquid or tablet chlorine, it's essential to consider the full scope of costs, including maintenance and equipment.
4. Safer Maintenance
Automated Chlorination: The salt cell automatically converts salt to chlorine, reducing manual chlorine handling.
Cons of Converting to Saltwater Systems
1. High Initial Costs
Salt Cell Installation: Expect to shell out between $500 and $2,500 for the salt cell alone.
2. It's Not Chlorine-Free
Chlorine is Still Present: The salt cell converts salt into chlorine, debunking the myth of a chlorine-free pool.
3. Maintenance Still Required
Salt Cell Cleaning: Regular acid cleaning is necessary to prevent calcium buildup on the salt cell.
4. Florida State Regulations
Secondary Chlorine Backup: Florida pool codes require a secondary chlorine system, adding to the complexity and cost. The reason why is that chlorine produced from salt is a steady process and large bather loads and a secondary chlorine type back up is required to give the pool a chlorine ‘BOOST’ quickly.
5. Permits and Paperwork
Regulatory Hurdles: Conversion may require permits and engineering plans, adding to your expenses, time to complete, and to-do list.
The Bottom Line
So, what's the verdict?
Unless your commercial pool was originally built as a salt water system, my take is that salt is best suited for residential pools with low usage.
I'm aware of only one large, high-bather-load lazy river that started on a salt system and later switched to bleach. By the way, I worked at this facility
Why?
Employee injuries from hauling dozens of 40lb salt bags weekly, skyrocketing electrical costs, and accelerated equipment corrosion were the culprits.
A Word of Caution: If you do decide to go for the salt conversion, make sure you have an operator who is experienced and allocated adequate time each day to monitor and clean the equipment. This is crucial for the long-term success and safety of your saltwater pool.
DID I MISS ANY PROS AND CONS - PLEASE WRITE IN THE COMMENTS
