If you are putting in a salt water pool or thinking about changing your existing pool to salt, there are a number of things you must consider. Among these things is your pool pump. Like a traditional pool, you need to have a pump in your pool. Pump options vary, and sometimes you don't even have to replace your it if you are converting to a salt system. However, before you purchase a salt water pool pump, take a moment to learn about your options.
In most cases, you can use your traditional pump. There may be a few problems with calcium build up if you do not keep you chemical levels in check, but in general, a typical pump works just fine. This is good news for people wishing to convert to a salt system. There may be a few problems with salt conversion if you have a stainless steel pump, however, as the salt can work against the stainless steel and cause a number of problems. Some stainless steel systems can work well, depending on the way they operate. If you've converting an old chlorine pool to a salt system, check with the pump's manufacturer to see if your pump can be used as a salt pump.
A salt water pool pump works quite simply, just like other pumps. Water from your pool is sucked into the pump through an intake port. The water is filtered through the pump basket, which you'll have to clean regularly. It is then pushed through the pump and back into the pool through the discharge pump. The only difference is that you also have a salt cell attached to the system. This cell uses electricity to produce chlorination, keeping your pool clean. This should keep your water blue and clean, just like it would be in a typical pool.
When choosing one, if yours needs to be replaced of if you do not currently have a pool, look for one that works well in your price range. Yes, pumps can be expensive, but a new one should last for many seasons if you maintain your pool. With a new equipment, make sure that the manufacturer has noted that the it can be used with a salt system. In addition, check out the warranties given with the device, as well as the colors and styles if the salt water pool pump will be in the open where everyone can see it.
Is a salt swimming pool the right choice for you? That's not a question you can answer by discussing pump options alone. There are both advantages and disadvantages to this system so it is important that you learn about both the benefits and the downfalls before installing this kind of pool system.
