Saltwater systems have been on the rise in recent years as people are looking for more natural ways to boost their health and wellness. The salt water hot tub manufacturers claim to be a natural and chemical-free alternative for sanitizing hot tubs. They were initially developed for swimming pools in New Zealand around the year 1980.
Through the electrolysis process, electricity usually converts dissolved salt into chlorine or sodium bromine which later converts to bromine. Saltwater hot tubs are suitable for homeowners looking for a gentle hot tub experience and a better understanding of saltwater hot tubs. Read on to understand more about them.
How Does a SaltWater Hot Tub Work?
The saltwater hot tub works like its sounds using a chlorinator device, and it transforms the salt hot tub water into a sanitizing agent for your water. Once sodium chloride is released into your hot tub water, it uses a little electricity that won't shock you. The chloride molecules from the salt are released into your hot tub, and they start sanitizing your water.
This process takes place in the water chlorinator device, and all you need for the process to work is to have salinity levels of 2500 PPM. Any hot tub can qualify as a saltwater hot tub once they get a salt-chlorine generator. Notably, water chemistry and bather load factors affect the water life, but properly maintained saltwater spas will keep the spa water clean and fresh.
Unlike a traditional tub, a saltwater hot tub requires only three cartridge replacements a year, which saves time and money. Plus, the installation process does not require tools, and the disposable and maintenance-free titanium cartridge is easily replaced.
Benefits of Salt Water Hot Tubs
1. No need for sanitizers
It is possible to have a hot tub that does not use chlorine because that's one advantage of a saltwater hot tub that uses natural chlorine. When properly maintained, a saltwater spa does not need chlorine tablets or bromine tablets. Therefore, hot tub owners don't need to worry anymore about sanitizers.
2. Fresh Scent
Some hot tub owners are usually bothered by the strong smell of chlorine, making salt-water spas suitable for their needs. A salt system usually leaves the air quality pure, unlike chlorinated water tubs, which might have harsh odors because they interact with other harsh chemicals in the spa.
3. Irritant-Free
The salt water systems are free from chloramines, which are potentially irritating products produced when chlorine mixes with other substances like ammonia. For individuals sensitive to chloramine, a saltwater system is a perfect alternative because it limits exposure to chloramines and keeps the water clean and free from harmful microorganisms.
4. Easy to Maintain
Once the salt systems have been installed, they are easy to maintain as they have an easy cleaning process. You need to ensure that your alkalinity and pH are balanced, follow the user manual, and occasionally shock the saltwater hot tub.
5. Water Balance
Adding salt to spa water acts as a stabilizer and, as a result, balances the spa water and makes it more consistent. The mineral present in the spa water acts as a buffer and helps manage your chemicals, helping the pH balance and not fluctuate.
6. Buoyancy
Salt is usually responsible for adding buoyancy to the water, which reduces the stress and gravity on your body. This maximizes salt water hot tub therapy results, decreasing any strain and stress on your body and helping you have a better and more enjoyable spa experience.
7. Few Drains
A traditional hot tub should be drained and replaced every three to four months, and this is not the same for a salt water system. Salt water hot tubs don't need constant replacing, just proper maintenance and balancing, and the saltwater hot tub can last up to twelve months using less water.
8. Fewer Chemicals
Salt water systems usually constantly monitor chlorine levels in the water and produce as much chlorine as is needed. This means that the spa water has fewer chemicals, which will help it last longer. Additionally, the water of saltwater hot tubs feels softer, purer, and smoother than the sanitized water of traditional hot tubs.
9. Disposable titanium cartridges
The FreshWater Salt System converts salt into chlorine by using titanium salt cartridges designed to last up to four months with normal spa use. They are bought in packs of three, and a single pack can ensure the spa water is clean for over a year.
Disadvantages of the FreshWater Salt System
1. High Initial Cost
Initially, a salt water hot tub was more expensive than a traditional hot tub because it needed many installation costs to function fully.
2. Water should remain above 60℉
When it comes to salt water hot tubs, the salt water system needs to stay above 60℉ because when it falls below, the salt water systems may have difficulty producing chlorine even with the cell still running. Most systems shut down when they sense a low water temperature which reduces the chlorine level and results in a breeding ground of microorganisms.
3. Cell Replacement Costs
A hot tub salt cell may last between two and five years, depending on the cell quality, maintenance, and frequency of use. Even though the salt cells are made of parallel titanium plates, they may chip off because of low salt levels, lack of proper maintenance, or wear and tear.
4. Corrosion Risk
Since salt corrodes with metal, some people claim that saltwater systems cause damage to liners and heaters because of excess salt levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is saltwater good for a hot tub?
Yes, it is. A freshwater salt system is gentle on the skin with no strong chlorine smell and relatively easier maintenance generally making them a great choice. You can also conserve more water as they need fewer refills and thus are eco-friendly.
2. Is a saltwater hot tub easier to maintain?
Yes, they are easier to maintain, as we have mentioned above, and also they offer a gentle and more relaxing experience than traditional hot tubs.
