Pros & Cons, Salt Water Pool vs Chlorine
The difference between saltwater pools and chlorine pools is a much-debated topic on which is better. The two main points of comparison tend to be cost and health.
Saltwater pool vs chlorine pool maintenance and cost – It is cheaper to own a saltwater pool not just because the cost of the pool itself is lower, but you also won’t have the burden of purchasing chemicals each year. But after a few years, saltwater pool owners end up paying more money to replace decks, patios, railings, and patio furniture that has been corroded by the salt in the water. Maintenance is something to manage, but because saltwater pools don’t require excessive amounts of chemicals, one should just monitor the need for a phosphate or pH decreaser and clean the cell generator on a schedule.
Saltwater pool vs chlorine health – Saltwater pools have a chlorine generator that functions by naturally producing chlorine that comes from the electrolysis process that naturally occurs in saltwater. However, chlorine pools require much more maintenance in purchasing chemicals in concentrated amounts to be watered down in the pool itself. Many believe it’s safer and less toxic to use the saltwater’s natural properties to produce the needed chlorine. In addition, humans can become over-exposed to chlorine, so which is better?
Here is a list of saltwater vs chlorine pools pros and cons:
The benefits of a salt water pool can be a better choice in the long run, but the initial price tag that comes along with it will be more.
Pros of a saltwater pool:
– No need to buy expensive and potentially dangerous chemicals. The chlorine cell generator takes care of the chlorine need in your pool.
– The water has a softer feel to it, which many swimmers prefer.
– Less chlorine means that it is gentler on the eyes and skin. No more red eye or rash from too much chlorine exposure.
– The chlorine generator can shock the pool itself if needed.
Cons of a saltwater pool:
– There is an upfront cost to purchase and install the generator.
– You may need to monitor the chlorine generator to make sure the levels are correct so it continues to produce the right amount of chlorine.
– Cell generators need routine cleaning.
– Thru proper maintenance watch for corrosion buildup so as not to ruin any stainless steel handrails and equipment. This is a debatable question since many believe there can also be corrosion build up with chlorine pools.
– Since the pH in these systems can run high, a pH decreaser may need to be added to prevent calcium buildup on the pool walls.
A chlorine pool could also be an effective choice for a swimming pool. Chlorine pools have been used for a long time and there’s a reason for that. Chlorine is added directly to the water to eliminate bacteria on a regular basis.
Pros of a chlorine pool:
– It is the most effective way to sanitize water due to the concentration of chemicals used.
– A chlorine method purification system is cheaper than a saltwater one.
– Chlorine is nonabrasive on pool equipment and surrounding features. Unlike salt, chlorine can be used safely for years to come.
Cons of a chlorine pool:
– Chlorine can be harsh on eyes, skin, and hair, leaving you with red eye or rash and worse if overexposure occurs.
– Chlorine is much more cumbersome due to the amount of care needed. Routine chemicals must be added to your pool on a schedule and these chemicals can be harmful in such concentrated forms.
– Chlorine can be harmful due to overexposure.
The pros and cons are to be considered when deciding between chlorine or saltwater systems for your pool. Here at Pulliam Pools Houston, we are happy to help you with any decision making, answering any questions you may have regarding your current or future pool. Let us help you pick which system is best for you.
We hope you have gained valuable knowledge reading our article “Pros & Cons, Salt Water Pool vs Chlorine”
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