What type of pool salt should you choose to maintain clean and clear water?

Before delving into the details of the different types of salt, it is essential to understand how a saltwater pool works. Unlike traditional chlorine pools, saltwater pools use a chlorine generator to convert the dissolved salt in the water into chlorine. This process, called electrolysis, helps keep the water clean and disinfected without the need for constant addition of chemical chlorine. This can make pool maintenance easier and more cost-effective in the long run.

However, the salt you choose for your pool will have a direct impact on the operation of the chlorine generator. A poor quality salt can not only affect the water quality but also damage your equipment, which can lead to significant repair or replacement costs.

The choice of pool salt is not as simple as it seems. There are several types of salt available on the market, and their quality can vary significantly. The three most common types of salt used in saltwater pools are solar salt, mechanically evaporated salt, and mined and washed salt. Let's take a closer look at each type.

The solar salt is a salt that comes from seawater. The production process involves diverting seawater into a retention area where it is left exposed to the air under the effect of the sun. The evaporation of the water leaves behind the crystallized salt, which is then harvested.

Advantages of solar salt:

• Natural: This type of salt is generally more environmentally friendly, as it is produced naturally.
• Cost: Solar salt is often cheaper than other types of salt, making it attractive for pool owners looking to save.

Disadvantages of solar salt:

• Impurities: Solar salt often contains a significant amount of organic impurities, such as algae, debris, and organic matter. These impurities can cause problems for your pool, as they force the chlorine generator to work harder to produce chlorine and disinfect the water.
• Effects on Equipment: Organic impurities can also harm your filtration system and your chlorine generator, thereby reducing their efficiency and lifespan.
• Variable levels of impurities: The impurity content of solar salt can vary from batch to batch, making quality control difficult.

The mechanically evaporated salt is also made from seawater, but it is produced by controlled heating in a closed environment. Unlike solar salt, which depends on weather conditions, the mechanical process allows for precise control of the manufacturing conditions. This salt is heated to a high temperature to evaporate the water and leave the salt behind.

Advantages of mechanically evaporated salt:

• Fewer organic impurities: The manufacturing process helps to reduce organic impurities, which can be an advantage for the quality of your pool water.
• Consistent quality : Heat and process control ensures consistent quality from batch to batch, making it easier to maintain your pool.

Disadvantages of mechanically evaporated salt:

• Undesirable minerals: This type of salt is often rich in additional minerals such as calcium, magnesium, copper, and nitrites, which are not beneficial for a pool. Although they do not directly harm the cleanliness of the water, these minerals can affect the chemical balance of the water, making maintenance more difficult.
• Stains and degradation: These minerals can also cause stains on pool surfaces and damage the cells of the chlorine generator.

Mineral salt is extracted directly from underground salt deposits and is often purified before being used. This type of salt is considered the best option for saltwater pools due to its purity and the absence of organic impurities. Additionally, many pool salt companies, such as Pristiva, offer triple-washed salts, ensuring maximum quality.

Advantages of mined and washed salt:

• High purity: Mined salt is often composed of 95 to 99% pure sodium chloride, which means it contains few contaminants and undesirable minerals.
• Less wear on equipment: Due to its purity, this salt has a minimal impact on your filtration and chlorination system, which helps to extend their lifespan.
• Clear and balanced water: Pure salt helps maintain an optimal chemical balance in the water, ensuring healthy and crystalline water.

Disadvantages of mined and washed salt:

• Higher cost: Although this type of salt is more expensive than solar or mechanically evaporated salt, its cost is offset by its purity and long-term benefits for maintaining your pool.

The pool salt plays a crucial role in water quality and the efficiency of your chlorine generator. By choosing a high-quality salt, you allow your system to operate optimally, reduce maintenance, and avoid repair costs. A good choice of salt also helps to maintain the chemical balance of the water, ensuring a pleasant and safe swimming experience.