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Salt Vs. Chlorine.....

Salt Vs. Chlorine.....
2:20

Did You Know?

Is Chlorine More Corrosive Than Salt?

When it comes to keeping your pool sparkling clean, chlorine and salt are the unsung heroes—but did you know they can also affect the longevity of your pool equipment? Let’s dive into the science of corrosion to uncover the truth.

Chlorine: The Swift Corrosive Agent

  • Chlorine is a powerful oxidizer, which means it reacts quickly with metals like steel, aluminum, and copper. This reaction is even more intense in water with low pH levels (acidic water).

  • In improperly balanced pools, excessive chlorine levels can corrode ladders, pumps, and heaters in no time.

  • Chlorine’s corrosive power increases in acidic environments, making water balance essential.

Salt: The Silent Long-Term Culprit

  • Salt (sodium chloride) isn’t corrosive on its own, but when dissolved in water, it creates a conductive solution that accelerates electrochemical corrosion.

  • Saltwater’s corrosive effects might not show up immediately, but over time, it can cause pitting and rust on metal components like screws, bolts, and filters.

  • Even stainless steel, which resists corrosion, can succumb to pitting corrosion when exposed to high-salt environments.

So, Which Is More Corrosive?

  • Chlorine: More corrosive in the short term due to its reactivity.

  • Salt: Slower, but can lead to significant damage over time, especially if salt deposits accumulate or equipment isn’t regularly maintained.

In Your Pool:

  • Chlorine Pools: Unbalanced water with high chlorine levels and low pH can cause immediate corrosion to pool equipment.

  • Saltwater Pools: Properly maintained saltwater pools are generally gentler on surfaces, but long-term exposure to salt can still wear down metals.

Pro Tip:

To keep your pool equipment safe, always maintain proper water balance:

  • Monitor chlorine levels and keep them within recommended ranges.

  • Adjust pH to avoid acidic conditions.

  • In saltwater pools, keep the salt concentration at the recommended 3,000-4,000 ppm.

The Bottom Line: Chlorine may pack a quick corrosive punch, but salt’s slow and steady impact shouldn’t be underestimated. Balance is the key to a long-lasting, beautiful pool!

Contact us today for expert tips and maintenance services to keep your pool in top condition year-round!