When it comes to taking the plunge and adding a pool to your backyard, there are a lot of decisions to make. One of the biggest choices you’ll need to make is whether to opt for a saltwater pool or a traditional chlorine pool. Both have their pros and cons, and the choice you make will largely depend on your individual preferences and priorities.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at saltwater pools vs chlorine pools to help you make an informed decision.
The Main Difference between a Saltwater Pool and a Traditional Chlorinated Pool
With a traditional chlorine pool, you’ll need to add liquid, powder, or tablet chlorine directly to the water to keep it clean and clear. However, with a saltwater pool, you’ll add salt to the water instead.
The salt levels are then maintained by the chlorinator in your pool, which uses electrodes to convert the saltwater into chlorine for a sparkling, luxurious swimming experience. Not only does this help keep your pool water soft and gentle on your skin, but it can also simplify maintenance while offering a range of potential health benefits compared to traditional chlorine pools.
Costs
Initial Costs
When it comes to the initial cost, saltwater pools and chlorine pools differ in terms of equipment and installation expenses. Saltwater pools require specific equipment, such as a salt chlorine generator or salt cell, which converts salt into chlorine. These components, along with the associated plumbing and electrical work, can increase the upfront investment. On the other hand, chlorine pools involve the cost of the pool itself and the necessary equipment, such as a pump, filter, and chlorinator.
Long-Term Costs
Considering the long-term cost, both types of pools have their own ongoing expenses. Saltwater pools require maintenance and occasional salt cell replacements. While the maintenance requirements are generally lower than those of chlorine pools, the salt cell may need replacement every 3-7 years, depending on usage and manufacturer recommendations. This replacement cost should be factored into the overall budget for saltwater pool owners.
Chlorine pools, on the other hand, involve regular purchases of chlorine and other chemicals to maintain the water quality. Additionally, there are ongoing maintenance costs associated with balancing the pH, shock treatments, and periodic equipment maintenance. These costs can accumulate over time and should be considered when evaluating the long-term financial commitment of owning a chlorine pool.
Saltwater pools are like investing in a hybrid or electric vehicle. They may have a higher initial cost, but they tend to be more economical to operate and maintain in the long run.
Similarly, chlorine pools can be compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars. While they may have a lower upfront cost, the ongoing expenses related to chemicals and maintenance can add up, just like the cost of fuelling and maintaining a gasoline car.
Level of Maintenance
Saltwater Pools
Maintaining a saltwater pool requires specific attention to a few key aspects.
1) Salt Cell Maintenance and Cleaning
In saltwater pools, a salt cell is responsible for generating chlorine from the salt in the water. While this system is designed to be self-cleaning, regular maintenance is still necessary. Over time, calcium and other minerals can accumulate on the cell, reducing its efficiency.
To ensure optimal performance, it’s important to inspect and clean the salt cell periodically, typically every three to six months. Cleaning the cell involves soaking it in a mild acid solution to remove mineral deposits. This straightforward maintenance task helps prolong the lifespan of the cell and ensures efficient chlorine production.
2) Water Chemistry Monitoring
Monitoring the water chemistry is an essential aspect of maintaining any fibreglass or concrete pool, and saltwater pools are no exception. While saltwater pools have a more stable chlorine level due to the continuous chlorine production from the salt cell, it’s still important to monitor other chemical levels such as pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness.
Regular testing and adjustments are necessary to maintain a balanced and safe swimming environment. Testing kits or electronic monitors can help measure these parameters, allowing you to make any necessary adjustments to keep the water chemistry in optimal range.
3) Potential for Reduced Maintenance Time
One of the touted advantages of saltwater pools is the potential for reduced maintenance time compared to traditional chlorine pools. With a saltwater pool, there’s no need for manual dosing of chlorine on a regular basis. The salt cell generates chlorine automatically, eliminating the need for daily or weekly chlorine additions.
This convenience can save time and effort, allowing pool owners to spend more time enjoying their pool rather than maintaining it. However, it’s important to note that regular water testing and occasional cell cleaning are still necessary to ensure proper pool operation.
Chlorine Pools
Maintaining a chlorine pool follows a different set of maintenance practices.
1) Regular Chlorine Dosing and Monitoring
In a chlorine pool, regular dosing of chlorine is required to maintain proper sanitation levels. Pool owners need to add chlorine manually, either in the form of granules, tablets, or liquid, on a regular basis. The frequency of dosing depends on various factors such as pool usage, temperature, and weather conditions.
Regular monitoring of chlorine levels is necessary to ensure that the pool has adequate disinfection capabilities to kill bacteria and control algae growth. Test kits or test strips can help measure the chlorine levels, allowing adjustments to be made as needed.
2) Shock Treatments and pH Balancing
In addition to regular chlorine dosing, chlorine pool owners need to perform periodic shock treatments. Shocking the pool involves adding a higher concentration of chlorine to eliminate contaminants, restore water clarity, and maintain optimal sanitation. The frequency of shock treatments depends on pool usage, environmental factors, and water conditions.
Additionally, maintaining proper pH balance is crucial in chlorine pools. pH levels need to be monitored regularly, and adjustments may be required using pH increasers or decreasers to keep the water within the recommended range. Proper pH balance enhances chlorine effectiveness and prevents skin and eye irritation.
3) Consideration of Maintenance Workload
Chlorine pools generally require more hands-on maintenance compared to saltwater pools. The regular dosing, shock treatments, and pH balancing can add to the maintenance workload. Pool owners need to allocate time for routine maintenance tasks and ensure they have a sufficient supply of chlorine products on hand.
While these maintenance requirements may require a bit more effort, they also provide an opportunity for pool owners to actively engage in the care and maintenance of their pool, which some find rewarding.
Potential Health Benefits and Drawbacks
Saltwater Pools
Saltwater pools offer several advantages over their chlorine counterparts when it comes to potential health benefits. One notable perk is that saltwater is gentler on the skin and eyes.
Have you ever experienced the stinging sensation or redness that can occur after swimming in a heavily chlorinated pool? Well, with a saltwater pool, you can bid farewell to those discomforts. The lower chlorine levels in saltwater pools can help alleviate skin and eye irritations, providing a more enjoyable swimming experience for everyone.
Furthermore, saltwater pools also reduce the risk of chlorine-related allergies or irritations. Some individuals may be more sensitive to the harsh effects of chlorine, resulting in dry, itchy skin or even respiratory issues. By opting for a saltwater pool, you can significantly minimize these concerns, allowing individuals with chlorine sensitivities to swim without worries.
In addition to the above benefits, saltwater pools may provide relief for people with respiratory conditions. Traditional chlorine pools often emit strong chlorine odours, which can be bothersome and trigger respiratory distress in individuals with conditions such as asthma. Saltwater pools produce chlorine through the process of electrolysis, generating a more balanced and milder chlorine content. As a result, the air around saltwater pools is generally fresher, making it a more suitable environment for those with respiratory sensitivities to enjoy a refreshing swim.
Chlorine Pools
While saltwater pools offer certain health benefits, it’s important to acknowledge the strengths of chlorine pools as well. Chlorine has long been recognised for its ability to effectively kill bacteria and control algae growth in swimming pools. It acts as a powerful disinfectant, ensuring that your pool water remains clean and safe for swimming. The familiarity and proven safety record of chlorine in pool maintenance make it a reliable choice for many pool owners who prioritise water sanitation.
However, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with chlorine exposure. Although chlorine is an effective sanitiser, prolonged exposure to high chlorine levels can lead to skin dryness, irritation, and even chemical burns in some cases. It’s important to maintain proper chlorine levels and regularly monitor the water chemistry to ensure a safe swimming environment. Additionally, the strong smell of chlorine in heavily chlorinated pools can be overwhelming for some individuals and may trigger respiratory discomfort, particularly for those with sensitivities or allergies.
So which option is right for you?
Ultimately, it depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option that’s gentle on the skin and more eco-friendly, a saltwater pool may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re willing to put in a little more effort to keep your pool clean and well-maintained, a traditional chlorine pool could be a good fit. It’s also worth considering your budget, as well as any potential health concerns you may have.
Whether you have a preference for chlorine or salt water pools, if you are after a new pool for your home or commercial property, consult an award winning Brisbane pool builder. Ecozen specialise in premium quality pool and landscaping packages to suit all budgets.
