Why would you want a salt water pool?

Author: Ms. Araceli Ziemann PhD  |  Last update: Wednesday, June 15, 2022

Salt water pools offer a more convenient sanitization method over traditional chlorine. The reliable systems operate independently and are easy to maintain. Salt water chlorination produces clean, clear, silky-smooth water that's luxuriously soft.

What are the pros and cons of a salt water pool?

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.

Are salt water pools worth it?

You can spend less time checking levels and more time splashing around. 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.

Is a salt water pool better for you?

Swimming in a salt water pool is better on the joints and muscles than a traditional chlorinated pool. Salt water contains bromide, a mineral that helps relieve those everyday aches, pains and soreness we all feel deep within our joints and muscles.

Why is salt pool better?

Pros. Lower chlorine levels make saltwater pools gentler on skin and eyes. This is a great choice if the pool is to be used by young children and athletes who are immersed for long periods of time. Chlorine levels in saltwater pools are enough to disinfect, but not enough to fade expensive swimwear and gear.

The Pros and Cons of Saltwater Pools

Is salt better than chlorine?

Saltwater pools are also generally the cleaner of the two. Having a salt water pool could also be safer than having a chlorine pool. That's because, with a salt water pool, you don't have to store all the harmful chemicals that are needed with a chlorine pool.

Does a salt water pool use 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.

Are saltwater pools 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.

Does salt water pool raise blood pressure?

This increases the salt content in the body, raising the blood pressure of patients with salt-related blood pressure and may cause heart attacks, ”said Meriç, adding that although swimming regularly has health benefits in all aspects, this is not true for some people.

What type of pool water is best?

Saltwater 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. Saltwater is corrosive to metal and tends to corrode any metal objects near the pool such as outdoor furniture and even nearby grills.

What are the drawbacks of a saltwater pool?

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 salt water pools cheaper to maintain?

While they do cost a bit more on the front end than a chlorine set up, the ongoing maintenance for saltwater pools is typically far less expensive. Generally, you can expect to pay somewhere around $300 to $800 a year on the chemicals you'll need to maintain a chlorine pool.

How much does it cost to convert pool to salt water?

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.

How long do saltwater pools last?

You won't have to spend as much money to maintain an above ground saltwater pool, either. That's because the typical life span of a salt cell is three to seven years. And when you use a saltwater system instead of chemicals, you will no longer have to buy chlorine tablets, liquid chlorine, or as many shock treatments.

Do salt water pools get algae?

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.

Can you open your eyes in salt water pool?

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 affect your body?

Relaxing. Swimming is already a great way to relax, but swimming in saltwater is known to promote the body's natural relaxation process even more effectively. Exposure to salt water can also soothe sore muscles and relieve pain and stiffness from arthritis.

Do salt water pools dry out your skin?

In most cases, salt water causes dry and itchy skin but chlorine triggers irritated skin and sometimes even a nasty rash.

Can salt water pools be heated?

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.

Do you have to shock a saltwater pool?

So, not only is shocking a saltwater pool okay, but it's actually important to your pool's health. Shocking is the process in which you overload your pool with chlorine (3-5 times the normal amount) to improve your pool's cleanliness and kill off organic matter.

How often do you have to treat a saltwater pool?

You should review the salt cell at least every two months. Most need cleaning a minimum of every six months, and sometimes more often, so checking the cell is essential to make sure it doesn't need replacing.

Are saltwater pools better for your skin?

Saltwater, however, is naturally good for the skin. After a dip in a salt water pool, your skin will be left feeling smoother and softer. Salt water is good for certain skin disorders like eczema and acne. It is a natural exfoliant and moisturizer so it helps our skin to retain more moisture.

Can any pool be a salt water pool?

You can convert your chlorine pool into a saltwater swimming pool and enjoy the benefits of salt water chlorination right in your own backyard. If your pool has a traditional chlorine sanitization system, you can easily switch to Hayward's advanced salt chlorination system.

Do you need a different pump for a saltwater pool?

Some Misconceptions About Salt Water Systems

You need a special pump and filter to run a salt water pool. There is no such thing as a “salt water pump” or “salt water filter”; any pool pump or filter will do just fine.

Can you switch from chlorine to salt water pool?

When converting from chlorine to a salt system you'll simply want to remove your chemical feeder, and install your salt system in its place. To do so, make sure that your pool filter, heater, and pump are turned off (ideally at the fuse box to prevent any accidents).

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