Yes, saltwater pools absolutely need cyanuric acid (stabilizer) to protect the chlorine generated by the salt cell from UV degradation. Maintain CYA levels between 70-80 ppm for optimal protection.
Pool salt cells use electrolysis to convert dissolved salt (sodium chloride) into chlorine gas and sodium hydroxide. The chlorine sanitizes your pool while the sodium hydroxide raises pH, creating a continuous chlorination cycle.
Salt water pool systems use electrolysis to convert dissolved salt into chlorine sanitizer. The salt cell generates chlorine from sodium chloride, eliminating the need to manually add chlorine while maintaining proper sanitation.
Yes, saltwater pools absolutely need cyanuric acid (stabilizer) to protect the chlorine generated by your salt cell from being destroyed by UV rays. Target levels should be 70-80ppm for optimal protection.
Most salt water pool cells can be rebuilt by replacing the titanium plates and internal hardware, typically costing 50-70% less than a new cell. However, rebuilding is only worthwhile if the cell housing is intact and you have technical skills.
Yes, you should turn off your salt cell when shocking your pool with liquid chlorine or other chemical shock products. This prevents damage to the cell and ensures proper shock effectiveness.
Covering a salt water pool is not legally required, but it's highly recommended for reducing chemical loss, preventing debris, and protecting your salt cell. The process involves specific steps for winterization and equipment protection.
Cleaning a salt water pool requires testing and balancing chemistry (FC, pH, CYA), maintaining the salt cell, and regular physical cleaning of surfaces and equipment.
Clean your salt cell by turning off power, removing the cell, and soaking it in a 4:1 water-to-muriatic acid solution for 10-15 minutes to dissolve calcium buildup.
Check if your salt cell is working by inspecting for visible bubbles during operation, testing chlorine output levels, and verifying proper salt levels (3000-4000ppm). A functioning cell should produce steady bubbles and maintain chlorine levels without supplemental shocking.
Salt water pools can cause diarrhea if the salt cell isn't producing adequate chlorine or if the water is contaminated with harmful bacteria. The solution is maintaining proper free chlorine levels of 1-3 ppm and balanced pH.
Yes, saltwater pools absolutely need calcium hardness maintained between 200-400 ppm depending on surface type. Low calcium can damage equipment and surfaces, while high levels cause scaling on the salt cell.
Pool salt cells use electrolysis to convert dissolved salt (sodium chloride) into chlorine by passing an electrical current through salt water between titanium plates coated with precious metals.
A failing salt cell shows signs like low chlorine production despite proper salt levels, calcium buildup on plates, error codes on the control unit, or visible damage to the cell housing. Test by checking amperage draw and inspecting the plates for scaling or corrosion.
