The Truth About Saltwater Pools

Saltwater pools have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they are thought of as more natural, as well as gentler on eyes and skin. However, there is a lot of misinformation about the benefits of salt water systems as well as some serious drawbacks to consider before purchasing. We’re here to dispel the rumors and get real about the differences between chlorine and salt water systems.

Although most people believe that saltwater pools are sanitized by salt, they are actually sanitized by the same chlorine as regular pools. Salt water systems work by salt water passing through a chlorine generator which converts the salt into pure chlorine. This chlorine is pumped into the pool and then reacts with the bacteria and sunlight to sanitize the water. As the chlorine is consumed, the byproduct is salt, which then goes through the cycle again. Since the cycle acts as a self-recharging system, salt only needs to be replenished occasionally due to the loss from dilution, backwashing, and splashing out.

As a result of the constant cycling of salt to chlorine, chlorine levels stay at a more consistent level which helps the water to feel softer and less harsh on the skin and eyes. Since the water chlorine levels are maintained by the combination of salt and chlorine generator, there is no need for adding harsh chemicals directly into the pool, which is safer for whoever is maintaining the pool. This also results in less weekly maintenance needed for the pool to stay balanced.

Although there are benefits of having a salt water system, there are many drawbacks that should also be considered. Firstly, Saltwater pools typically have a higher upfront cost than traditional chlorine pools. This is because they require a salt chlorine generator, which can be expensive to install. Secondly, saltwater can be especially corrosive to pool equipment, including the heaters, lighting, liners, ladders, and even masonry. Over time, salt can build up in the pool and on the pool deck, leading to discoloration and damage to the surrounding areas. As for upkeep, chlorine generators have to be replaced in as little as three years after installation, as well as requiring specialist technicians for even minor fixes which can be very costly. This means that maintenance costs may be higher in the long term.

In conclusion, saltwater pools offer some benefits over traditional chlorine pools, including consistent lower chlorine levels and lower weekly maintenance requirements. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as higher upfront and maintenance costs, potential corrosion, and salt buildup issues. It's important to weigh these pros and cons when deciding whether a saltwater pool is right for your needs.