You may be trying to choose between salt vs. chlorine when deciding on a system for keeping your pool water clean and clear. At Goodall Pools & Spas, we will help you find a compatible system for your pool and instruct you on how to maintain the pool water.
Benefits of a Saltwater System for Your Pool
You may be surprised to know that a saltwater pool does not feel salty! Swimming in a saltwater pool is nothing like swimming in the ocean. The pool is only about one-tenth the salinity of seawater. Your guests will likely be surprised when you tell them they have been swimming in a saltwater pool.
Another surprise may be that a saltwater pool is still a chlorine pool. The difference is that the chlorine in a saltwater pool is not added with a stick or tablet but is released into the water by way of a chlorine generator that fits next to the existing pump and filter. This generator turns the salt into chlorine.
Some benefits of a saltwater pool include:
- Saltwater is easier on skin, hair, eyes, and swimsuits. Some individuals with sensitive skin find it more comfortable to swim in a saltwater pool.
- Since the chlorine generator only produces chlorine as needed, saltwater pools require less maintenance than a traditional chlorinated pool.
- The chlorine generator makes chlorine, so you only need to add sticks, tablets or chlorine shock in certain circumstances. For example, at pool opening, if you have algae, or if you have a large party with several people in the pool. If you add chlorine, you will not damage your saltwater pool since chlorine is already part of the system.
Cons to a Saltwater Pool
The main drawback to a saltwater pool is that salt can also be damaging and corrosive to certain materials, so you will need to be sure your heaters, lighting, liners, and other pool equipment are compatible with your saltwater pool. Chlorine generators required for saltwater pools also require a larger upfront cost compared to traditional chlorine pools. The chlorine generators typically last 5 to 7 years before they need to be replaced.
How to Maintain Your Saltwater Pool
There are different varieties of salt you can use. Our preferred salt is BioGuard Mineral Springs. It has additives that lower the pH, stabilize the chlorine, and make the water soft. Mineral Springs also reduces the amount of time you will spend balancing your pool and will also reduce the amount of other chemicals you will need to add to your pool water.
For more information about a salt system versus chlorine for your pool, contact us at Goodall Pools & Spas.
