Let's talk about salt. Saltwater, that is.
You may be wondering what the difference is between pools that use chlorine versus those that use saltwater. Well, any person who has owned a pool should be familiar with those little color strips. These testing strips measure your pool’s pH levels and alkalinity. It is critical for these elements to be checked in on and correctly balanced. The safety of anyone swimming in those waters depends on it. When your pool water isn’t properly maintained, it can
develop algae and make swimmers sick. Put simply, your filtration system is no place to slack.
The traditional approach to maintaining clean pool water has been chlorine, saltwater pools are becoming more popular. So should you get a saltwater pool?
Chlorine and Saltwater Pools: What’s the Difference?
Chlorine is the most common method for cleaning a swimming pool. As you might have suspected, chlorinated pools are cleaned with a chemical, chlorine, which can be used granulated or as a tablet.
Saltwater is a more recent trend that offers a newer alternative to chlorine. Through the process of electrolysis, this system transforms salt into chlorine. Then the system transfers the chlorine into the water. Even though this process uses saltwater, it does
also use chlorine – just a significantly lower amount of it.
Take Your Pick
Are you wondering which option, saltwater or chlorine, is better for you and your pool? When it comes down to it, it’s really a matter of preference. Your best bet is to do the research and make your decision once you’ve reviewed the information. A pool expert can lend their opinion as well. Here are some tips on the advantages of each.
Advantages of a Saltwater Pool
Less maintenance required. Saltwater pools typically don’t need as much upkeep as chlorine pools. Checking on your pH levels each week won’t change, however you’ll spend less time measuring levels and keeping up with work. Basically, less maintenance means you have more time to spend safely swimming!
Less chemicals. Since less chlorine is used during this process, you’ll have less contact with chemicals. That means better conditions for your hair, skin and eyes.
Pool accessories last longer. With less harsh chemicals touching your
pool toys and swimsuits, your accessories, you’ll have better longevity for your accessories.
No chemical smell. Most people would prefer the smell that drifts through the air during a day at the beach rather than the strong odor of chlorine. With saltwater, you’re poolside experience will be closer to the former.
Disadvantages of a Saltwater Pool
More expensive option. As with many things in life, benefits often come at a cost. Saltwater pools are typically the more expensive option in this filtration system comparison. Installation alone can often be pretty pricey.
Potential damage over time. We mentioned earlier that salt is less harsh on your skin, hair and eyes, as well as your pool accessories. However, over time, lots of salt can cause damage to your pool. This can be avoided by checking your pool regular for sings of damage or corrosion. It is recommended that you do this every three months to avoid lasting damage.
