Salt water pool: An alternate solution to chlorine pool

When people talk about a swimming pool, usually they are talking about a chlorine pool. A standard  chlorine pool relies on regular addition of chlorine or bromine to disinfect the water. However, the popularity of chlorine pools has been declining due to the side effects that chlorine has. Some people who swim in chlorine pools have reported a strong unpleasant smell. Others have reported irritation in their eyes, throat and nose after taking a swim in the pools.

Salt water pool: An Alternate solution to Chlorine Pool

Saltwater pools have been considered a great alternate solution to chlorine pools. But, many people have this question, ‘What is a saltwater pool ?’ In simple words, a saltwater pool is a swimming pool that uses a saltwater chlorine generator and converts bulk salt into chlorine. The converted chlorines disinfect the water and fight against bacteria, cloudy water and algae.  Unlike chlorine pools, saltwater pools feel softer on eyes and skin and it is thanks to the electrolytic chlorine generator that uses electrolysis to split the salt into various component parts.

How much does a saltwater pool cost?

A saltwater pool costs between $25,000 and $80,000 to build from scratch and converting an existing pool into a saltwater pool can cost between $800 and $2,000. However, the cost of your pool can vary as it is affected by various factors like

• Location
• Ground Preparation
• Heating
• Construction Material

Tips for Saltwater Pool Maintenance

If you want your saltwater pool to last for a long time then you must ensure the filter, pump, and skimmer are clean and in a good condition. For your saltwater pool maintenance, Natural Salt Pools has listed down some tips to take care of your beloved pool.

• Regular inspection of salt cells to detect buildup.
• Since the pool still needs to circulate water, you must ensure your pool’s regular pump and filter are well maintained. 
• Purchase salt only intended for pools.
• Schedule a regular check of rubber O-rings and pump seals for signs of corrosion.

Salt water pool vs Chlorine pool

Although, both saltwater and chlorine pools are great to take a splash during the hot summer days. There are some differences that distinguish one from the other.

Pros of Saltwater pool:

• Low or no chlorine smell.
• Pool water feels smoother and softer.
• Lower costs for chemicals.
• No harshness or burning in the skin.
• Salt is safer to store and work with than chlorine.
• Salt is usually widely available and easy to use.

Cons of Saltwater pool:

• Regular replacement of salt-chlorinator electrode cell.
• High upfront cost of saltwater chlorine generator.
• Bulk salt for chlorinators is heavy, hard to store.
• Regular cleaning of salt cells.
• Electrically powered.
• Corrodes metal in the pools.

Pros of Chlorine pools

• They have a lower initial investment.
• They’re easy to maintain.
• Pool’s masonry, lining or accessories aren’t corroded by chemicals. 
• They use less energy than saltwater pools.
• They’re less corrosive than saltwater pools.

Cons of Chlorine pools

• Some people find the strong smell of chlorine unpleasant.
• Chlorine in the water can cause irritation in eyes, throat, and nose.
• Presence of heavy metals in the water can turn blonde hair green.