Palm Springs Pools: Are "Saltwater" Systems Toxic?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert sun beats down, reflecting harshly off the shimmering surface of your Palm Springs pool. It’s an oasis, a refuge from the heat. But that inviting water can quickly turn from friend to foe if you’re not careful, especially with a saltwater system. Many believe “saltwater” means chlorine-free, a dangerous misconception that can lead to skin irritation, equipment corrosion, and even health risks. Let’s dive into the truth about saltwater pools and how to keep yours sparkling and safe in the Coachella Valley.
Saltwater pools aren’t chlorine-free. They use a salt chlorine generator to convert dissolved salt into chlorine. This process eliminates the need to manually add chlorine tablets or liquid, but chlorine is still the active sanitizer. The generator uses electrolysis to separate the sodium chloride (salt) into sodium hydroxide and chlorine gas. The chlorine gas then dissolves in the water, forming hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypochlorite ions (OCl-), which are the same sanitizing agents found in traditional chlorine pools.
Maintaining proper chlorine levels is crucial. The ideal range for a saltwater pool is between 1-3 ppm (parts per million). Too little chlorine, and algae and bacteria can thrive, turning your pool into a murky swamp. Too much, and you risk skin and eye irritation, not to mention damage to your pool equipment.
Palm Springs’ intense sun accelerates chlorine breakdown. This means you’ll likely need to run your salt chlorine generator for longer periods, especially during the peak summer months. Consider investing in a pool cover to help reduce evaporation and chlorine loss.
pH is another critical factor. It measures the acidity or alkalinity of your pool water. The ideal pH range is between 7.2 and 7.8. High pH can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine, leading to cloudy water and scale buildup. Low pH can cause corrosion of metal parts and etching of plaster surfaces.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to testing and adjusting your pool chemistry:
Gather your supplies: You’ll need a reliable test kit (either liquid or test strips), pH increaser (soda ash), pH decreaser (muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate), alkalinity increaser (sodium bicarbonate), and chlorine.
Test your water: Follow the instructions on your test kit to measure pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Do this at least twice a week, and more frequently during periods of heavy use or extreme weather.
Adjust alkalinity first: Alkalinity acts as a buffer for pH, so it’s essential to get it in the correct range (80-120 ppm) before adjusting pH. If alkalinity is low, add alkalinity increaser according to the product instructions. If it’s high, you may need to add muriatic acid in small increments, carefully monitoring the pH.
Adjust pH: If pH is too high, add pH decreaser. If it’s too low, add pH increaser. Always add chemicals slowly and in small amounts, allowing the water to circulate for several hours before retesting.
Adjust chlorine: If your chlorine level is low, increase the output of your salt chlorine generator. If it’s too high, decrease the output. You can also use a chlorine booster (calcium hypochlorite) for a quick increase if needed.
Monitor calcium hardness: Calcium hardness should be between 200-400 ppm. Low calcium hardness can cause etching of plaster, while high calcium hardness can lead to scale buildup.
A common mistake is adding too much chemical at once. This can cause drastic swings in water chemistry, making it difficult to correct. Always follow the product instructions carefully and add chemicals in small increments. Another pitfall is neglecting to clean your salt cell. Over time, calcium and other minerals can build up on the cell, reducing its efficiency. Clean the cell regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
For Palm Springs residents, the desert climate presents unique challenges. High evaporation rates can concentrate minerals in the water, leading to scale buildup. Regular water testing and balancing are essential to prevent these problems. Consider using a calcium hardness reducer if your water is consistently high in calcium.
When it comes to responsible disposal of pool chemicals, never pour them down the drain or into the storm sewer. Contact the Palm Springs Disposal Services or your local hazardous waste disposal facility for proper disposal instructions. Many pool supply stores also offer chemical disposal services.
Here are a few reputable pool maintenance professionals in the Palm Springs area:
- Pool Pros: Known for their reliable service and expertise in saltwater systems.
- Desert Oasis Pool Service: Offers comprehensive pool maintenance and repair services.
- Aqua Paradise Pools: Specializes in pool cleaning and chemical balancing.
Don’t let the allure of a “saltwater” pool fool you. It requires diligent maintenance just like any other pool. By understanding the chemical realities of your system and following these guidelines, you can keep your Palm Springs oasis sparkling, safe, and enjoyable for years to come. Remember, a little knowledge and consistent effort go a long way in maintaining a healthy and happy pool.