In making the decision to purchase a salt chlorination system, it is necessary to consider certain facts. First, salt does not eliminate the need for chlorine. The salt cell actually ionizes the salt to produce chlorine. This is accomplished by maintaining the appropriate salt levels and by running the pool filter for the necessary amount of time-based on the gallons of water in your pool. Second, the cell must be maintained and cleaned regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure optimum performance of the system. Third, the salt system does not eliminate the need for other chemicals. It is still very important to monitor all chemical levels and to maintain a pH reading between 7.2 and 7.6.
Proper water chemistry keeps your water clean and clear, and it reduces staining, scaling, and etching of the interior surface of your pool. Any questions regarding water chemistry in conjunction with your salt system can be answered through any of our retail stores or by attending one of our monthly "Pool Schools."e;
In addition to considering the maintenance factors of a salt chlorinator, it is also important to realize that salt is a corrosive mineral. As such, use of a salt system may lead to the deterioration of certain materials if salt levels exceed the manufacturer’s limits. This includes, but is not limited to, natural stone (including flagstone, cultured stone, marbella, travertine, etc.), concrete (including Kool Deck, exposed aggregate, etc.), clay tile, grout, some metals, and some equipment components. Any damage to the pool and/or equipment resulting from salt is not covered under warranty.
If you are not comfortable with these facts, we have several other water management options you may want to consider. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your purchase of a salt system, please discuss these with your salesman before signing this disclaimer.
I have read and understand the above information regarding salt chlorination systems. I am aware that there is required maintenance for the salt system to operate properly, as well as maintenance of salt levels, other chemicals, and pH balance. I am also aware of the corrosive properties of salt, the potential damage/deterioration that may occur as a result of the use of salt in my pool, and that such damage/deterioration is not covered under warranty.
A Major Ladder Manufacture explains their new one year warranty:
"Lastly, powder coated rails offer yet another layer of protection against rust and corrosion for pool rails. The layer of powder coat paint acts as a barrier between the elements and the stainless steel rail. One thing to mention is that if a powder coated pool rail is winterized and continually pulled in and out of the anchor sockets, the risk of paint chips and scratches increases which expands the risk of rust at those damaged paint areas. For optimum rail protection, a powder coated rail in conjunction with a sacrificial zinc anode is the best way to go." (The anode is needed because they now have plastic threads in the interests of preventing corrosion)
HEATER WARRANTEES: Now 1 YEAR with disclaimers
In their warranty information, Raypak provides a one year warranty, and excludes the situation of "not maintaining a proper chemical balance (PH level must be between 7.4 and 7.8 and total alkalinity between 100 and 150 PPM. Total dissolved solids (TDS) must be no greater than 3000 PPM)".
Unfortunately, there are no salt generators that will operate on less than 3100 tds (2900 sodium and 200 ppm). Jandy is using 2000 ppm; Hayward "higher than normal". Pentair (now the owner of Sta-Rite) is hard to find any warranty information on – and all of them now offer a salt water chlorinator.
Jandy makes a point in there 2003/04 LX/LT Owner’s Manual of pointing out that their water chemistry concentration levels are taken from Basic Pool & Spa Technology published by NSPI. NSPI doesn’t exist today. The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) has taken their place as the industry recognized advisors on water chemistry standards. It is important also to note ZODIAC now owns Jandy and manufactures the salt generator that requires the MOST salt.
