Chlorine pools were standard for most of us growing up. Recall the chemical odor, irritated red eyes, swimming suits faded into oblivion. Back then, no one cared—simply having a pool was something special.
Today, nearly all new installations are saltwater pools, and older pools are being converted at a high rate.
This post will do two things: (1) explain how saltwater and chlorine pools work, and (2) compare their pros and cons. We’ve found that a lot of folks aren’t knowledgeable about the pools they own or plan to build, so we hope this overview helps.
The Role of Chlorine
Chlorine acts as a disinfectant, killing bacteria, viruses, and other harmful organisms, thereby preventing the spread of diseases. Chlorine also helps to keep the water clear by preventing algae growth and breaking down dirt, debris, or other substances. So, chlorine is required in every pool and spa.
Chlorine Introduction
In a traditional chlorine pool, chlorine is manually added as tablets, granules, or liquid. Saltwater pools, in contrast, use a salt chlorine generating system to convert salt through electrolysis into chlorine (see photographs of in-line chlorine generating cells). Simply described, an electric current is applied as pool water passes through the generator, splitting the salt molecules into chlorine and other components. In both types of pools, regular testing (e.g., for pH levels), maintenance, and running of the circulating pump are required to ensure proper chlorine levels and water quality.
How to Convert to Saltwater
Fairly simple, a do it yourself (DIY) project for some homeowners. Purchase and install a salt chlorine generator system, retrofit some pool plumbing to make this possible, add salt to the water, monitor and balance water chemistry factors specific to saltwater pools.
Saltwater Pools—Pros and Cons
Ultimately, choosing between these two pool options is a matter of personal taste, maintenance requirements, and budget considerations. Here are a few key pros and cons associated with saltwater pools:
Benefits
Less testing/balancing: continuous chlorine production (when the circulating pump is running) reduces the need for frequent manual chlorine additions. However, regular cleaning of the salt cell and monitoring of water chemistry levels are still essential.
Provide a more comfortable swimming experience, with potentially softer-feeling water, gentler on skin and eyes, negligible chemical odor.
Drawbacks
Saltwater can be corrosive, potentially affecting certain pool materials and equipment over time. Therefore, choose pool components compatible with saltwater and regularly inspect and maintain the pool’s surfaces, metal fixtures, and equipment to mitigate corrosion issues.
Higher installation costs, although lower ongoing cost (fewer chemicals required) to operate over time.
Servicing
Most pool owners have their pools serviced by professionals on a weekly basis. Chemistry is analyzed and adjusted; water added to compensate for evaporation; debris (e.g., leaves and insects) removed by net and/or vacuum; water-line tile scrubbed to remove algae; filters checked and cleaned as needed.
Professionals make their work look quick and easy—and why not, they service dozens of pools per week and have their routines down pat.
Homeowners wanting to do this on their own should appreciate, however, the true amount of knowledge, work, time, and expense required to keep a pool/spa looking crystal clear and beautiful, with machinery and electronics functioning optimally. It's only an "easy" task when done both correctly and consistently.
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