Photo Credit: Courtesy of Pool Pilot
The growing use of Electrolytic Chlorine Generators (ECGs) in the public-pool sector is not a fad but a trend--one that has been spurred on by pool operators who have become increasingly aware of the documented benefits of this technology. The efficient and effective use of ECGs has proven not only to provide better water quality, but also to eliminate the dangerous effects of bulk chlorine handling.
Salt has played a major role throughout history for its medicinal properties. Over 2,000 years ago, Greek medicine discovered the topical use of salt for skin lesions and digestive troubles, and the inhaling of salt for respiratory diseases (Science Tribune, 1999). Bathing in a brine solution was increasingly used in the treatment of skin diseases like psoriasis, dermatitis, chronic eczema, as well as for arthritis. While these mixtures are a stronger saline solution than used in pool applications, the theory behind salt utilization in swimming-pool water provides insight into why the process is gaining acceptance.
Background
ECGs, known as Salt Water Systems, were first introduced in the late 1970s for swimming pools and spas when the technology was unknown to the industry. This same process--invented in the 1960s--was widely used for waste-water treatment and industrial applications. Since the late 1990s, there has been a major shift in acceptance. ECGs have gained world-wide approval, and are now recognized as the best methodology for generating a chlorine sanitizer for both private and public pools and spas.