Over the last few years there has been a lot of buzz about Salt Water Pools. Much of the focus with Salt Water Pools has been about the tremendous cost savings, time saving maintenance issues and most importantly, the health benefits associated with installing a saltwater system. Let’s discuss the pros & cons of a saltwater system and how it relates to a traditional chlorine pool.
<strong>What’s the difference between Salt Water and Traditions Chlorination Systems?</strong>
The biggest difference between a freshwater and a saltwater swimming pool is the chlorination process. Chlorine (usually in liquid or tablet form) has to be constantly added to freshwater pools in order to kill E.coli and other harmful bacteria.
Saltwater pools use chlorine for the exact same purpose (the process is called Electrolysis) but it’s added in the form of a gas through a powered generator that turns salt into chlorine gas. Instead of having to manually add chlorine all the time, the generator for a saltwater pool automatically does it for you saving lots of time and energy!
<strong>What are the Cons of a Salt Water System?</strong>
Setup for a saltwater system is a bit more expensive, both in terms of initial setup and maintenance. Being more complex than traditional sanitization systems, salt water pools often require experienced technicians even for minor problems. Since saltwater is more corrosive, it can cause damage to certain materials, you may want to avoid using specific types of heaters and fixtures.
<strong>Final Thoughts on Salt Water vs. Traditional Chlorine Systems</strong>
Most people are making the switch to salt water systems for its health benefits and the increased comfort factor. With a salt content of 1/10th of that in seawater, its equivalent to the salt in your tears. Its softer on your skin, and is less likely to cause any itching, burning, dry skin or swimsuit fading like traditional chlorine pools do. You can also open your eyes underwater without as much irritation. Those days of adding and monitoring your chlorine levels and “shock” treatments are now over with a saltwater system. With a saltwater system, the generator produces a steady flow of chlorine at all times which reduces algae and maintains a reliable level of cleanliness.
Here at McBurney Pool & Spas, we install both saltwater and chlorine swimming pools. We also have a huge selection of products for whatever system you choose. Check us out online or visit us in person to discuss with our pool experts what the best choice is for you and your family.