Chlorine Pellets

Chlorine Shortage? Beat It By Switching To Salt

According to an Atlanta-based research firm, there are about 5.2 million residential inground pools and about 255,000 commercial pools currently in the U.S. It had been reported that this summer would see an extreme shortage of usable chlorine for the swimming pool industry. Multiple reasons played into this narrative including a surge in demand last year through the pandemic along with a devastating chemical fire at a production plant in Louisiana. As Americans hunkered down through the summer of 2020, demand rose and production fell, resulting in a shortage.

The pandemic resulted in many lifestyle and decision-making changes including spending additional time in and around the home. Residential improvements became priorities as people searched for ways to stay occupied and have fun while rarely leaving the house. One of the biggest demands came in the form of pool installation and / or increased time in the backyard pool. This created the demand for additional water and chemical usage, including the need for chlorine which was expected to spike by about 70% this summer.

In addition to increased demand, a manufacturing facility near Lake Charles, Louisiana ran by BioLab, burned down last August after Hurricane Laura made landfall. Luckily, no one was injured in the accident but it did create a major impact on both the jobs that were lost and the production of chlorine products. So, with less chlorine available, what is the solution? Convert your pool to saltwater!

Converting your pool to a saltwater system reduces an owners’ dependence on chemicals and it’s a healthier alternative for you and your family. After the initial investment of converting your chlorine pool to saltwater, these pools have great benefits including:

  • No harsh chlorine smell – Because saltwater pools create their own chlorine naturally, you won’t have the same harsh smells that are typically associated with traditional pools.
  • The water is softer – In many instances, salt is used in water softeners inside your home to create a better experience, showing, washing dishes and even drinking it. This leads to dishes with less residue and skin feeling softer after showering. After 45 minutes in a saltwater pool, you can feel the difference comparatively.
  • Maintenance – Saltwater pools are easier to maintain and cost less due to lower chemical costs. The fact that salt is much cheaper to purchase than chlorine, during times of increased chlorine prices, this can really add up to savings.

With many unknowns as to the future of chlorine prices resulting from an increased pandemic demand and product reduction, converting to saltwater can be a safe, healthy and satisfying alternative. Hawaiian Pool Builders has been in the swimming pool industry for more than three decades and has extensive knowledge and expertise in creating the perfect swimming environment for you and your loved ones. If you feel the time has come to reduce your dependency on pool chemicals while also creating a healthier swimming experience, please give our experts a call today at 419.878.7946 or head over to our website at https://hawaiianpoolbuilders.com/ for more information.

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