How does saltwater electrolysis for pools work ?

Saltwater Treatment for Pools: How Does It Work?

Saltwater treatment for pools is a simple, natural process. It keeps the water clear, healthy, and odorless autonomously under all circumstances. It's an alternative to traditional "chemical" treatments. However, to get the most benefit, it's important to understand at least the basics of how it works. So, how does salt turn into a disinfectant?

What Is the Process of Converting Salt into Chlorine?

Of course, for the pool to be treated with salt, the electrolyzer must first be installed in the technical room downstream of the filtration and heating system, and special pool salt must be added to the water. The quantities are based on the operational needs of the electrolyzer and proportional to the volume of water to be treated. You need between 3 and 7 grams of salt per liter of water, depending on the model.

Some Rules for Optimal Operation

If the pool's filtration is not running, the electrolyzer remains off! The conversion process relies on a cycle, so the filtration time must be adjusted for the electrolyzer to produce the disinfectant correctly and in sufficient quantity. As long as the pool filtration is running, the electrolyzer produces sodium hypochlorite, a form of chlorine. This pool treatment requires minimal human intervention. If there is no pH regulator, however, the pH level of the water must be monitored very regularly. Indeed, the caustic soda produced by the electrolyzer tends to raise it, and a high pH level results in reduced chlorine effectiveness. For large volumes of water treated with salt, it is advisable to add stabilizer to extend the life of the chlorine.

Saltwater Electrolysis for Pools: How Does It Work?

The pool's saltwater follows the hydraulic circuit when it enters the electrolyzer cell. The electrodes, under the effect of low voltage current, react, break down the saltwater, oxidize the salt, and convert it into sodium hypochlorite and caustic soda. Sodium hypochlorite is pure chlorine, a very powerful natural disinfectant, and an effective antibacterial and antifungal agent. The treated water returns to the pool via the return jets. This chlorine destroys algae, bacteria, and germs. Once its action is complete, under the influence of solar rays (UV), the chlorine combines with the caustic soda and turns back into salt. The cycle is complete, perpetual, and requires no additional salt, except during partial pool drainage!

Saltwater electrolysis is an ecological and economical method. This treatment requires almost no other maintenance products, and human interventions are rare. The pool's disinfection is continuous as long as the pool pump is running. The water is soft and pleasant, with no odor, no dry skin, and no stinging eyes.