What are the advantages and disadvantages of a saltwater pool?

Author: Prof. Dewayne Harber  |  Last update: Thursday, May 12, 2022

The Pros and Cons of Saltwater Pools
  • PRO: Saltwater pool is softer on your eyes and skin.
  • CON: A saltwater pool is more expensive than a chlorine pool.
  • PRO: They usually require less maintenance than chlorine pools.
  • CON: Saltwater pools require expert technicians for repairs.

What are the disadvantages of salt water pools?

Cons
  • You will need to store and handle high amounts of salt.
  • Muriatic acid will need to be added to the pool water on a regular basis.
  • The pH levels will need to be continuously monitored.
  • Any issues with the generator or pool system may require help from a professional.

Are saltwater pools worth it?

For most people, the big selling point for saltwater pools is, well, the salt! The lower-chlorine saltwater is better for swimmers' hair, skin and eyes. Additionally, it also tends to be less harsh on pool toys and swimsuits. So saltwater offers better longevity for your accessories.

Is a saltwater pool better than a chlorine pool?

Pros of Saltwater Pools

There's less chlorine and less of the heavy chemical scent and content. They're gentler on the skin, with less irritation to the eyes, hair and swimsuits. The water has a softer, silkier feel to it compared to chlorine water. They have lower maintenance costs than chlorine pools.

Is salt water pool easier to maintain?

Is a salt water pool easier to maintain? Yes, a salt water pool is easier to maintain! There's no need to purchase, store and add chlorine to your pool. Simply add salt and your pool's salt chlorinator will do all the work of making chlorine.

The Pros and Cons of Saltwater Pools

Can salt water pools raise your blood pressure?

Saltwater Pools Come With Health and Environmental Concerns

Providers have also linked higher heart mortality risks to sodium absorption through the skin, particularly among people with: High blood pressure.

Do you have to drain a saltwater pool every year?

You definitely need to drain some water from the pool when salinity reaches a 6,000 ppm level. Most salt water pools should be maintained with a salinity level of 2,500-4,000 ppm. The amount you drain depends on how elevated salinity levels are.

How much does it cost to convert to saltwater pool?

Most people are able to convert their inground pools to a salt system for around $1,700 to $2,500 plus the cost of salt (typically 25 cents to 63 cents per pound). This cost includes the salt chlorine generator, which can vary in price depending on the size and manufacturer.

Is a saltwater pool more expensive?

A saltwater pool is more expensive than a traditional pool because it requires a higher initial investment. Compared to chlorinated pools, a saltwater pools system is more complex. Both minor and major repairs will call for the expertise of a licensed (and specialized) technician.

What is the easiest type of pool to maintain?

A fiberglass pool is not prone to growing algae, which is one of the main reasons why this pool is easier to maintain. Anyone who is looking for a pool that doesn't require a lot of maintenance may want to consider going with a fiberglass pool.

Do mosquitoes like salt water pools?

Certain species of mosquitoes breed in saltwater pools. Two of the most common species are Aedes taeniorhynchus (also known as Saltwater mosquito) and the dangerous Asian Tiger mosquito that spreads diseases like encephalitis.

What is the point of salt water pools?

Salt cells convert salt into active chlorine for a lower cost as compared to the traditional form of liquid or solid chlorine. Salt water pools reduce skin and eye irritation and greatly reduce the chlorine smell.

Are saltwater pools warmer?

Saltwater pools can definitely be heated just like freshwater pools. The saltwater chlorinator does not affect heating units, so you will not have to worry about this when installing a heater in your swimming pool. The heating units will also be set up and installed in the same way as in chlorine pools.

Will a salt water pool freeze?

Will My Saltwater Pool Freeze? Yes, they will! Saltwater pools only have a fraction of the salinity of ocean water, so they will freeze in Ottawa's cold winter temperatures. This is why it's important to drain the water to below the skimmer and blow out any lines when closing the pool for the winter.

Do salt water pools have chlorine?

A saltwater pool is an alternative to a traditional chlorine pool. Although you don't add chlorine tablets to a saltwater pool, it does still contain chlorine. It just has a smaller amount that's generated through the filter system. A saltwater pool contains 10 times less salt than the ocean.

Which is cheaper to maintain saltwater or chlorine pool?

Chlorine pools are more traditional and are also cheaper than most saltwater pools. However, they can be more difficult to maintain over time. Because there is no generator making chlorine, you will need to add chlorine into the pool on your own.

Are salt water pools clean?

Saltwater will sanitize your pool, but it does so through electrolysis, which produces bacteria-killing chlorine. In other words, saltwater pools are no healthier or safer than chlorinated ones.

What type of pool water is best?

chlorine. Saltwater or saline pools offer a better swimming environment, and while it might feel better on the skin and does not cause eye irritation, it's not without its problems. "A saltwater pool is a great system," says Nick Vitiello, project manager for Lang Pools.

Can you open your eyes in salt water pools?

Opening your eyes in lake, ocean or sea water is especially dangerous. Never expose your eyes to natural water sources, where hundreds of different types of bacteria, viruses and even fungal pathogens could exist.

Do salt water pools turn green?

While green algae are endemic in salt water pools, they are the easiest to kill. Green algae tend to grow during summers when the temperatures can get high. They float freely in the pool, making the water green. You might even see them growing on the bottom of the pool, on the walls, or in the crevices.

How often should you change the water in a salt water pool?

Your pool contractor in Salt Lake City can tell you how often the water should be replaced in your pool, based on the manufacturer's recommendations and how often you plan to use the pool. Generally, pool water needs to be replaced once every five to seven years.

How often do you change the water in a saltwater pool?

You should be able to go at least 6-8 years in between complete drain and refills.

Do you have to winterize a saltwater pool?

Winterizing is an important step whether you own a salt water pool or a regular chlorine pool and will help make spring start up a whole lot easier as well as reduce the time and chemicals needed to get your pool ready.

What chemicals do you need for a saltwater pool?

Salt water pools are most stable with a pH of 7.6, and Alkalinity of 70-80 ppm. A stabilizer level of 50-80 ppm is recommended by most salt system manufacturers. High calcium hardness levels have no effect on salt water pools, but a level of 180-200 ppm may result in less scale on the salt cell plates.

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