Salt Water Pool vs. Chlorine Pool
Deciding between a salt water pool and a traditional chlorine pool can feel like a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a first-time pool owner or someone thinking about converting their current setup, it’s important to understand how each option can impact your lifestyle, budget, and maintenance responsibilities.
At SPS PoolCare, our mission is to help make owning a pool always feel like a joy. This blog will explore the key differences between salt water pools vs. chlorine pools so you can make the right choice for your needs and preferences. Let’s dive in and explore what to consider to bring the backyard oasis of your dreams to life.
Differences Between Chlorine and Salt Water Swimming Pools
Chlorine and salt water pools may both use chlorine to sanitize the water, but the way they do it is completely different. One relies on direct chemical additions, while the other uses a built-in system that transforms salt into chlorine. Understanding this difference is the first step in deciding which pool is best for you.
Chlorine pools are the more traditional option, requiring regular additions of pool chlorine to disinfect the water. This is typically done by adding liquid, tablets, or powder. Salt water pools, meanwhile, rely on salt water pool systems to maintain clean water without frequent adjustments.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Understanding required pool maintenance costs and necessary upkeep is key when choosing between salt water and chlorine pools. Some homeowners prefer a system that automates part of the care, while others don’t mind taking a more hands-on approach. Here’s how the upkeep compares.
Saltwater Pool Maintenance
One of the biggest benefits of salt water pools is that maintenance and cleaning schedules are generally easier over time. The salt water pool chlorinator takes care of producing chlorine on its own, requiring fewer manual chemical additions. Routine tasks include checking salt levels, testing water balance, and occasionally cleaning the chlorinator cell. The salt water pool pump should also be checked regularly to ensure optimal performance.
Upkeep Required for Chlorine Pool
Chlorine pools require more frequent attention. You’ll need to manually add pool chlorine and test the water regularly to maintain proper chemical levels. Unexpected events like heavy rain or high usage can throw off your water chemistry, meaning you may have to shock the pool more often. These pools often need more hands-on maintenance to keep the water safe and balanced.
Costs and Expenses
Initial installation and long-term costs can vary significantly depending on which system you choose. Let’s take a look at the financial commitment involved with both salt water and chlorine pools.
How Much Do Salt Water Pools Cost?
Salt water pools tend to be more expensive upfront. The cost includes a salt water pool pump and a salt water pool system with a chlorinator. However, over time, the lower chemical usage often makes these pools more cost-effective. Salt is inexpensive and long-lasting, and you won’t need to buy chlorine as frequently.
Expenses of Chlorine Pools
Chlorine pools are typically more affordable to install initially, but the ongoing costs can add up. Regular purchases of pool chlorine, shock, algaecides, and testing supplies are necessary. If you pay for regular pool service, your overall costs will likely be higher in the long run than with a salt water pool.
Water Quality
The way a pool feels and smells is important to many homeowners and swimmers. While both types of pools keep water clean and safe, the benefits of swimming and overall experience can feel quite different.
Salt Water Pool Systems
A salt water pool system produces soft, silky water that many people find more pleasant. The water contains a low level of salt (much lower than ocean water, don’t worry!) that is enough to reduce skin and eye irritation. This provides a steady level of chlorine, which helps maintain consistent water quality with minimal fluctuations.
Effects of Pool Chlorine
Pool chlorine in traditional systems can be harsher. It’s effective at sanitizing but can sometimes cause red eyes, dry skin, and a strong chemical odor if not managed properly. High chlorine levels may fluctuate more often, especially if water testing and treatment are inconsistent. This can lead to a less comfortable swimming experience over time.
Differences in Lifestyle
Alt Text: A man rubs his red eyes in a chlorinated swimming pool. (Source)
Beyond water chemistry and cost, your pool should also suit your lifestyle. How a pool looks, feels, and fits into your daily routine can make a big impact on how much you enjoy it.
Appearance of Salt vs. Chlorine Pools
A well-maintained pool will always look great, regardless of the system. That said, salt water pools may offer a slight edge in preserving pool surfaces and accessories. Because the chlorine levels are lower and more stable, pool tiles, liners, and metal fixtures tend to experience less wear and tear over time.
How To Get Rid of Chlorine Smell
Everyone knows the smell that appears after swimming in a chlorinated pool. It comes from chloramines, which are created when chlorine binds with contaminants in the water. Salt water pools naturally produce fewer chloramines, which means less odor overall. In chlorine pools, maintaining proper water circulation and regularly shocking the water can help reduce chloramine buildup and improve air quality around the pool.
Effects on Skin, Eyes, and Hair
Salt water swimming pools are generally gentler on your body. Swimmers often notice less irritation in their eyes, smoother skin, and fewer issues with brittle or green hair after using salt water pools. Traditional chlorine pools, especially those with unbalanced levels, are more likely to cause these discomforts. For families with young children or individuals with sensitive skin, the gentler nature of salt water is often a welcome relief.
What Are Salt Water Pool Chlorinators?
Salt water pool chlorinators are the heart of a salt water system. These devices convert salt into chlorine through electrolysis, providing a steady and automated way to keep your water clean throughout every season. With a chlorinator, you don’t have to manually add chlorine every few days, as it’s built right into your system. When paired with a high-quality salt water pool pump, chlorinators make owning and operating a pool more convenient and efficient.
While they do require periodic maintenance like cleaning the cell and checking electrical components, salt water pool chlorinators drastically reduce the time and effort needed to manage your pool’s chemistry. This is a key reason many homeowners choose to install or convert to a salt water system.
Expert Pool Services From SPS PoolCare
At SPS PoolCare, we’re here to make every aspect of pool ownership easier for you. Whether you’re building a new pool, upgrading your system, or looking for help with regular maintenance, our team of experienced professionals is ready to support you every step of the way.
Keep your backyard oasis looking modern and inviting all season long with the help of SPS PoolCare. Find a pool service provider near you to start your journey today!
