Salt water chlorinators are literally life changers. With these ultimate water purification systems, you no longer have to worry about the rancid stench of chlorine or having your swimmers or spa visitors irritated by the chemicals. In spite of all these and many other pros, you will have to put in a bit of work to ensure that your salt water chlorinator is functioning perfectly.
One of the most important things to consider is the temperature of the water in your pool for safe operation of your salt water chlorinator. Below is some information on why this is important to consider and what you can do to avoid any issues with salt water chlorinator temperature.
The Relationship Between Your Chlorinator And Temperature
A salt water chlorinator works by separating chlorine ions from salt added to the pool then converting it back to sodium chloride for which can then be reused. This process is mediated by a special ionization cell within the chlorinator system. By design, these cells are set to function when the water temperature is at 60 degrees or higher. If this desired temperature is not reached, most designs will mean that the cell will remain shut off and the water will not be sufficiently purified.
During the winter or other times where cold weather pushes the temperatures below 60 degrees, you will need methods to heat the water so that the ionization cell on the chlorinator will work according to normal operating conditions. This will prevent the thriving and accumulation of things like algae and bacteria which take advantage of the compromised activity of the chlorinator.
How To Maintain Salt Water Chlorinator Temperature
Maintaining the pool or spa temperature above 60 degrees is not exactly rocket science. However, these simple activities will help prevent damage to your pool filter systems and exposure of pool users to pathogens and germs. Below are two ways to ensure that no matter how cold it gets, your salt water chlorinator works perfectly.
Invest in units with Winter Mode Features
This is a special feature that allows you to configure the salt water chlorinator to low temperature conditions. This allows the cell to continue with the ionization process for a clean and pathogen free pool. It is, however, very important to note that this mode reduces the chlorination process by up to 20% in terms of efficiency. However, with the right amount of salt in the pool this is enough to purify the swimming water.
Invest in a Pool Heater
If you can’t work on the chlorinator you work on the water. The other way to ensure that your salt water chlorinator works even in the cold is by investing in a pool heater. This allows proper monitoring and regulation of temperatures keeping them 60 degrees or above.
Bottom Line
After all is said and done, there is no denying the importance of salt water chlorinator temperature control when working with salt water chlorinators. The tips and guidelines we have provided should ensure that your pool is maintained at the perfect temperature for optimal operation. This way, people using the pool or spa get to enjoy clean water and great temperature with no expense to your system.