How sanitation technology can help keep water clean
By Scott Lenney
Saltwater systems and chemical automation have been evolving for almost 30 years. Newer, more modern systems are the result of miniaturizing technology which has been available for pools and larger spas for decades. This technology allows users to add salt to the water, and through the process of electrolysis, sodium chloride (NaCI) is split into low levels of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and chlorine (CI).
Once the chlorine has sanitized the water, it combines again with sodium to revert back to salt and re-cycles through the system. Today, salt chlorine systems are also available for small hot tubs and spas—either inline or as drape-over units. Not only are these units easy to install, but they also make spa maintenance easier, require a minimal amount of salt, and simplify water care to ensure client loyalty and additional revenue for businesses.
How they work
Unlike traditional chlorine and bromine treatments, which lower alkalinity and pH, salt chlorine generators for spas use a process that increases the pH of the water and ultimately protects equipment against corrosion. This is vastly different from earlier systems which required 3000 to 5000 parts per million (ppm) of salt—making the water highly corrosive. Now, certain systems only require 1500 ppm of salt, which is almost considered fresh water. It is also helpful to keep water hardness at 250 to 300 ppm for salt levels from 1500 to 2000 ppm, and 300 to 400 ppm for salt levels from 2000 to 3000 ppm, to help protect against corrosion.
As most service professionals know, salt chlorine generators make very pure chlorine and truly improve the spa soaking experience. Traditional chlorine and bromine products contain compounds which build up and inhibit the chlorine’s ability to oxidize and sanitize the water. As a result, service professionals will frequently need to drain these spas to keep the water clear. Any additional minerals present are also processed through electrolysis. Without draining, the water produces conditions which can lead to cloudy water, skin rashes, dry and itchy skin, or worse. With salt chlorine generators, the only mineral subject to electrolysis is pure salt, which helps ensure optimal sanitation and gentle effects on the skin. Not only do salt chlorine generators provide better water for users’ health, but they also reduce the use of expensive chemicals, so spa and hot tub owners will spend less, use less water, and be more satisfied with their purchase, as well as more loyal to their spa service provider.
Jason Minor of Spatacular Hot Tubs in Medicine Hat, Alta., says his company started looking for sanitizing alternatives about two or three years ago, when the use of bromides was banned in Canada. Through this search, he discovered the ease and convenience of the salt chlorine generator.
