The Chlorine Free Pool Myth: Debunked

If you’re a homeowner with a residential pool, you may be looking for a way to keep your pool clean without chlorine. We hate to break it to you, but there is no such thing as a safe chlorine-free pool. Although every pool needs chlorine to clean the water properly, there are some types of pools that require a limited amount of chlorine. We’ve outlined some of the most popular pools that require less chlorine than the typical chlorine based pool.

Mineral Pool. This type of pool is sanitized by using silver or copper. This is typically less harsh on skin and reduces the risk of red-eye. This is one of the most natural pool sanitizers because it’s derived from Earth’s natural elements. However, chlorine is still needed to make this cleaning method effective. Chlorine is necessary because the bacteria kill rate would be too slow if you only used minerals. The pool may look clear, but without chlorine, bacteria can pass from one swimmer to another before being oxidized.  

Saltwater Pools. This type of pool is one of the most misunderstood pool systems. Most people think that salt water pools contain no chlorine and salt is what is used to disinfect the pool. However, this is a myth. The way a saltwater pool system works is through electrolysis. As the salt molecules pass through the generator cell, they are converted into a free form of chlorine.  When the chlorine oxidizes bacteria, it naturally converts back into salt and the process is repeated.  Saltwater systems do minimize the level of chlorine and the need for frequent shocking of the pool.

Chlorine generator. This is the unit that makes a saltwater pool work.  This automated generator is what’s used to convert salt into chlorine to sanitize the pool and shock the water within the chlorine generator cell. Chlorine levels and pH balance are the most important elements in a pool’s water chemistry. If pH levels rise, chlorine becomes ineffective.  The generator may not be able to keep up with chlorine demands until pH levels are brought back down to 7.2-7.8.  Since pH and Chlorine levels change quickly, an automated generator is very beneficial.  An automated generator measures pH and chlorine levels, then activates an acid pump to reduce pH levels as needed and activates the generator to produce more chlorine as needed. This ensures you’re swimming in the healthiest clean environment with the lowest possible level of chlorine.  Here are some other benefits to having an automated chlorine generator / salt system:

• Saves time and stress
• Convenience
• Healthy
• Environmentally sound
• Saves money

Chlorine generator with “pH Clear.” This is a new patented technology which addresses two key limitations. The first benefit is that it automatically reduces pH levels, saving you the trouble of having to frequently test your pool’s pH levels. Another key benefits of the chlorine generator with pH Clear is that it acid washes the generator cell automatically. The one drawback of chlorine generators is that their cells need to be cleaned out on a regular basis.  Even systems with “reverse polarity” need regular cleanings.  A generator with the pH Clear option greatly reduces and often eliminates cleanings and lets you enjoy your pool.

Although there is no pool that can be considered effectively sanitized without the use of chlorine, there are some pool cleaning options that use less chlorine and are more convenient for residents. For more information on pool sanitization options or on how to take out the chill from your pool with solar power, contact one of our Superior Solar specialists today!