Salt Water Chlorinator

PoolPlanet offers various ranges of salt chlorinators, including the LIMPIDO, ZELIA VP, and ZELIA ZLT models, all manufactured by CCEI. These devices treat pool water with a low dose of chlorine, reducing excessive chemical use and improving swimming comfort. Unlike conventional pool treatments, salt electrolysis prevents dry skin, stinging eyes, and skin irritations.

How does a salt chlorinator work?

A salt chlorinator works through a chemical process called electrolysis, which converts salt dissolved in water into active chlorine. This chlorine disinfects the pool by eliminating bacteria, viruses, and algae. This technology uses a simple, risk-free process to automatically disinfect your pool according to your needs and essential parameters.

The operation is based on several steps:

1. Adding salt: A certain amount of salt must be added to the pool water. It dissolves and distributes evenly.
2. Water circulation: The salt water is drawn in by the filtration system and then passes through the electrolytic cell of the chlorinator.
3. Electrolysis: Inside the electrolysis cell, titanium plates receive a low-voltage electrical current, which causes sodium chloride (salt) to transform and produce active chlorine.
4. Water disinfection: The chlorine produced immediately dissolves in the water and destroys microorganisms.
5. Regeneration: Once its action is complete, the chlorine returns to its initial state under the effect of the sun's UV rays, thus reforming salt, allowing for a continuous and autonomous cycle.

What are the advantages of salt electrolysis?

Salt electrolysis offers many advantages over conventional chemical treatments:

• Long-term savings: The main advantage is financial: the initial purchase of the chlorinator is an investment, but it significantly reduces the costs associated with chemicals. Salt is much cheaper than chlorine tablets or pucks.
• Easier maintenance: The chlorinator operates automatically, reducing the frequency of manual interventions to adjust disinfectant levels.
• Improved swimming comfort: Salt-treated water is gentler on the skin and eyes, with no irritation or strong chlorine odor.
• Eco-friendly solution: The use of salt provides treatment without harsh chemicals, limiting environmental impact.
• Constant effectiveness: Unlike chlorine pucks that can dissolve irregularly, electrolysis ensures continuous and homogeneous production of active chlorine, resulting in clear water.

What is the price of a salt chlorinator?

The price of a salt chlorinator varies according to several criteria:

• Treatment capacity: Equipment designed for a small pool will cost less than a device intended for a large-volume pool.
• Advanced features: Some ranges include automatic treatment and pH or chlorine production regulation.
• Brand and manufacturing quality: Models from recognized manufacturers are often more durable and perform better.

On average, here are the observed price ranges:

• Classic chlorinator for small pools (up to 40 m³): between €400 and €900
• Chlorinator for larger pools (up to 80 m³): between €700 and €1,300
• Connected chlorinator for all pool types (with automatic regulation options): from €1,000 to €2,500

How much salt for my pool?

The amount of salt needed depends on your pool's volume and the chlorinator manufacturer's recommendations. The ideal salt level is generally between 3 to 5 grams of salt per liter of water.

Salt should be added directly to the pool and thoroughly mixed using the filtration pump. It is advisable to regularly check the salt level with a test strip or an electronic tester to prevent algae formation and proliferation and ensure effective disinfection. Note that too high a salt concentration in your pool water risks damaging your equipment and/or slightly generating chemical reactions harmful to your pool lining.

How to install a salt chlorinator?

Installing a salt chlorinator involves several steps:

1. Choose the location: The salt chlorinator should be connected after the filter and before any potential heater in your equipment room.
2. Prepare the pool: Check the pH, alkalinity, and water hardness before installation for an existing pool.
3. Add the salt: Pour the necessary amount directly into the pool and wait for it to dissolve completely for a new pool.
4. Install the cell: Mount the electrolytic cell on the piping and ensure good watertightness of the connections.
5. Connect the power supply: The chlorinator must be connected to the pool's electrical box, ideally by a professional for your safety.
6. Commissioning and settings: Once running, the chlorinator must be adjusted according to the manufacturer's recommendations to produce the necessary amount of chlorine.

What are the risks of the salt electrolysis system?

Although the salt chlorinator offers many advantages, some precautions should be taken:

• Deterioration of metallic equipment: The produced chlorine can accelerate the corrosion of metallic parts such as ladders or heat exchangers.
• Poor chemical balance: Incorrect pH can reduce chlorine effectiveness or cause calcium deposits in the electrolysis cell.
• Salt overload: Excess salt can make the water unpleasant and damage certain pool components.
• Necessary cell maintenance: Lack of cell cleaning can reduce its effectiveness and lead to overconsumption of energy by your device.

How to maintain a salt chlorinator?

Regular cleaning of the salt chlorinator ensures its proper functioning and extends its lifespan. Here are the actions to perform:

• Check and clean the cell: Every 3 to 6 months, dismantle the cell and fill it with household vinegar using a cleaning cap to remove calcium deposits.
• Check salt level: Regularly measure the salt concentration and add more if necessary.
• Maintain good water balance: Adjust pH between 7 and 7.6 and check alkalinity to avoid deposits and optimize disinfection.
• Clean sensors and electrical connections: Regularly check the condition of connections and ensure that no deposits hinder their operation.
• Use an empty cell in winter: To extend the cell's lifespan, it is advisable to remove it in winter and replace it with a specific empty cell.

With proper maintenance, a salt chlorinator can operate effectively for 5 to 10 years, ensuring healthy and crystal-clear water all year round.