Chlorine is a strong chemical that leaves your eyes irritated and your skin dry. There are a few significant advantages that explain why consumers are switching to saltwater pools. Here, we explore why this may be a switch you’ll want to make.
Saltwater vs. Traditional
If you’re not familiar with saltwater pools, the statistics may shock you. If you think it’ll feel like you’re swimming in the ocean, that’s not true. Saltwater pools only have around one-tenth of the salinity as ocean water, so they aren’t nearly as salty. Also, they aren’t entirely chlorine-free. The method is called electrolysis, and this process produces chlorine to disinfect the water.
Saltwater Pool Advantages
Saltwater pools are much gentler on the skin and eyes because the level of chlorine is significantly lower. Get excited because you won’t get out of the pool with red, burning eyes and itchy, irritated skin.
These pools are also safer to use since owners won’t expose themselves to harmful and unsafe chemicals by handling the substances that commonly come with owning a chlorinated pool.
Are you familiar with that desire to rinse off right after getting out of the pool? You won’t have that with a saltwater pool. The pool water has a more desirable, softer feeling.
You’ll also find more time to enjoy the pool and spend less time on maintenance since the saltwater system produces chlorine only when it’s necessary.
The Downsides
A saltwater pool setup will require a more considerable initial investment than a traditional pool would. These pools are more complex to own, and if you start seeing signs your system isn’t working, you’ll need skilled technicians to come out and fix any issues. Since salt can damage some materials, you also have to know which particular masonry, lighting, heaters, and liners to use for your pool.
Common Questions Asked
Below are some common questions consumers ask before switching to saltwater pools.
What Kind of Equipment Is Necessary?
You’ll need a salt-chlorine generator. This machine will use a process called electrolysis to break down dissolved salt into hypochlorous acid and sodium hypochlorite. Those are the two sanitizing agents that commonly exist in traditional chlorine-based pools. A salt-chlorine generator is not the same as a saltwater filter because the generator doesn’t filter the water.
Are There Different Types of Salt?
You’ll typically find three different types of salt in use with salt chlorine generators. They are solar salt, mined salt, and mechanically evaporated salt.
- Solar salt: This salt also comes from seawater, but sunlight evaporates the water. It contains impurities, such as dead brine shrimp and bacteria. These contaminations will make your generator work harder.
- Mined salt: This type of salt comes from the ground, and most consider it the purest salt form.
- Mechanically evaporated salt: This salt comes from seawater, but generated heat evaporates the water instead of sunlight. It may include pool-damaging minerals, so be aware.
How Long Does a Generator Last?
You should be good to go with your generator for three to five years. The life span depends on proper pool maintenance, water chemistry, and salt levels.
Final Decision
If you can afford it, the benefits of a saltwater pool outweigh those of a traditional chlorinated pool. It’s up to you to decide if you and your family will enjoy this type of pool and how often you’ll use it.