Choosing a pool isn’t just about the shape, tiles, or the deck around it. It’s about what kind of water you want to swim in every day. The discussion of saltwater pools vs chlorine is very popular among the pool owners, and understandably so. It influences your impression of the water itself, the price you will pay to maintain it, and even your skin and hair after a swim.
So, salt or chlorine pool? Which is better salt water pool or chlorine pool? To help you sing in the summer sun with no fear of sharks, we can break down what you need to know, what each has to offer, and who they best suit so that you can make the best decision to make your summer swims stress-free.
What Is a Saltwater Pool?
Before we discuss the question of whether salt swimming pools vs chlorine pools become better, we need to understand how salt water pools work.
In a saltwater swimming pool, a salt chlorine generator is used to make chlorine out of the dissolved salt that allows people to maintain the pool without manually adding the chlorine. This does not imply that the pool does not use chlorine, it just generates a smaller, regular amount of chlorine, to keep your water clean with no dramatic increases in chlorine concentration.
The majority can observe that saltwater pools are less harsh on the skin and are not irritating to the eyes. Nevertheless, they need a particular ratio of salt levels and certain specialized devices, which can also indirectly influence their future maintenance and spending.
Pros of Saltwater Pools
Thinking of switching or installing a salt pool? Here are the benefits:
Gentler on Skin and Eyes
Many swimmers, especially kids and those with sensitive skin, find saltwater pools much easier on their skin and eyes. You’re less likely to leave the pool with red, itchy eyes or dry, irritated skin, making your swims feel more relaxing and enjoyable.
Reduced Chlorine Odor
You are familiar with that chlorine smell that permeates your hair and your swimsuits. That is assisted with saltwater pools. The reason being because they release chlorine overtime gradually, so the water does not have that sharp chemical smell and you and your swim clothes are fresher each time after swimming.
Stable Chlorine Concentration
The saltwater pools have a generator to generate the chlorine all the time, and you don no longer have the chlorine spikes or drops. What this implies is that the water remains greener and cleaner and also feels nicer on your skin.
Soft Water Touch
Many have said that swimming in a salt water pool is like swimming in silk. It is smooth and soft and feels very nice on your hands and your water swims are more comfortable and fun and you do not get the harsh dryness of chemicals on your skin.
Lower Long-Term Chemical Handling
Once your saltwater system is set up, you won’t have to handle chlorine as often. The system makes chlorine on its own, reducing your need to store, measure, and add chlorine frequently, making pool care simpler in the long run.
Cons of Saltwater Pools
Saltwater pools have many great benefits, but it’s important to consider the disadvantages of salt water pools before you decide.
Higher Initial Costs
Setting up a saltwater pool costs more at the start. You’ll need to buy a salt chlorine generator and compatible equipment, which can range from $1,000 to $2,500, not including installation fees. It’s a bigger investment upfront, but it may pay off later in reduced chemical costs.
Potential Corrosion
Salt can be tough on metal parts in your pool. If you’re not careful, it can speed up rust and wear on heaters, ladders, and other pool equipment, which might lead to extra repairs or replacements down the line.
Complex Maintenance Needs
Even though you won’t have to add chlorine as often, maintaining a saltwater pool isn’t completely hands-off. You’ll need to keep an eye on salt levels, ensure the generator is working correctly, and test your water regularly to keep everything balanced and clean.
Energy Use
The generator that keeps your saltwater pool running needs electricity to produce chlorine. This m
Best For
A saltwater pool is best suited for:
- Families with children or sensitive skin.
- Those looking for a softer water feel during swims.
- Pool owners who prefer lower day-to-day chemical handling.
- Homeowners willing to invest upfront for reduced chlorine handling later.
What Is a Chlorine Pool?
Now let’s look at the traditional contender in the salt water pools versus chlorine debate: the chlorine pool.
A chlorine pool relies on adding chlorine tablets or liquid directly into the water to sanitize it. It is a tried-and-tested system, widely used in residential and commercial pools worldwide.
Chlorine pools are straightforward in terms of equipment, often having lower upfront installation costs, and maintenance routines are widely known, making it easy to find pool services for upkeep.
Pros of Chlorine Pools
Here’s why many still prefer chlorine pools:
- Lower Initial Costs: Without the need for a salt chlorine generator, installation is generally cheaper.
- Familiar Maintenance: Pool services and homeowners are familiar with chlorine pool maintenance, making it easier to find professional support.
- Effective Sanitization: Chlorine remains an effective sanitizer, keeping algae and bacteria at bay.
- Flexible Shock Treatment: Shocking a chlorine pool to clear cloudy water or handle contamination is straightforward.
Cons of Chlorine Pools
However, chlorine pools come with their challenges:
- Skin and Eye Irritation: Chlorine can cause dryness and irritation, especially if levels spike.
- Strong Chlorine Smell: The smell of chlorine can stick to hair and swimsuits.
- Frequent Chemical Handling: Chlorine needs to be added regularly, requiring careful measurement and handling.
- Fluctuating Chlorine Levels: Maintaining the right chlorine level demands frequent testing and adjustments, which can feel like a chore for some.
Best For
A chlorine pool is best suited for:
- Homeowners seeking lower upfront installation costs.
- Those comfortable with regular pool chemical handling.
- Properties where installing a salt system isn’t feasible.
- Those looking for tried-and-tested sanitization without specialized systems.
FAQs About Saltwater and Chlorine Pools
What is the healthiest type of pool?
Both pool types can be healthy if maintained properly. However, many swimmers report saltwater pools feel gentler on the skin and eyes, making them more comfortable for daily use.
Is a saltwater or chlorine pool better for hair?
Saltwater pools are often considered better for hair because they lack the harsh spikes in chlorine levels that can dry out hair and cause fading in dyed hair. However, swimmers should still rinse their hair after swimming in any pool.
Are saltwater pools easier to maintain?
Many wonder, are salt water pools easier to maintain? While they reduce the need for frequent chlorine additions, they require monitoring of salt levels and the functioning of the salt chlorine generator. Overall, they can be easier for day-to-day maintenance but require attention to equipment care.
Salt Swimming Pool vs Chlorine: Which Should You Choose?
When deciding which is better: salt water pool or chlorine pool, consider:
- Your budget for installation and long-term maintenance.
- Skin sensitivities in your family.
- Willingness to handle pool chemicals regularly.
- Your climate and pool usage patterns.
Saltwater pools and chlorine pools both have the prospect to offer swimming water without turbidity when properly cared. Saltwater may be the most suitable option in case you like the swimming experience to be lighter and do not want to deal with chemicals every day, but you are not scared of increased initial expenses. A chlorine pool will suit you well in case you prefer a less costly installation whose maintenance is more familiar and easy to understand.
Do you need Pool Services?
People do have options when they consider setting up a saltwater pool or a chlorine pool but the maintenance habits hold the key to the hassle-free use of a pool. In case you are willing to simplify your process of maintenance, you can hire professional pool services to be performed to test the water, check the equipment, and clean the pool at the beginning and at the end of the season.
Final Thoughts
It all comes to your preferences whether to have salt swimming pool vs chlorine pool since what matters is your lifestyle and how you want to maintain your pool. Take your time to judge such factors, consult with the local pool experts, and compare which system suits your requirements.
Thinking of getting a great backyard oasis one step closer? Call your local pool services right now and begin to design a dream pool that will provide fun, rest, and a little luxury to your daily routine.
Next Steps
If you need help with saltwater or chlorine pool installation, maintenance, or troubleshooting, our expert pool services team is here to guide you through each step, so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your pool.
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