There’s a number of reasons why people prefer to swim in pools rather than lakes or oceans. Pools are a cleaner way to cool off in hot temperatures while also getting some exercise in. There are also countless ways to design and use them. Correct chlorine levels in pools kill harmful bacteria and dirt. If you’re looking into installing an inground pool, you will likely come across two main types for cleaning systems. Most people know about chlorine pools, but not everyone knows about the saltwater alternative.
When considering a saltwater pool vs chlorine pool, there are many factors to consider. Both options have their upsides as well as their downsides. Depending on your budget, how much maintenance you want to do, as well as your personal preferences, you will likely find that one option is a better fit for you.
Chlorine pools are by far the most common type of pool sanitation system. If you have ever swam in a public pool, then you have swam in water that has had a variety of chlorine-based compounds added to it. These compounds kill germs, and also give off a particular scent when not properly managed — you know the one I’m talking about. This smell is actually one of the signs of too much chlorine in pool, or build up of chlorine that has not been cleaned. But how long does pool chlorine last? If stored properly, around 3-5 years.
A common myth associated with saltwater pools is that they are a chlorine-free alternative. Saltwater pools actually do contain chlorine compounds, they’re just lower levels of it and made differently. The difference is that this chlorine is made from salt on site. So how does a saltwater pool work? Saltwater pools have salt chlorinators installed to convert dissolved salt into chlorine, so it’s less harsh of a chemical compound. Why do pools need chlorine? Even the saltwater ones? Without this chemical, you could be unknowingly swimming in a petri dish of harmful bacteria.
But are saltwater pools as clean as chlorine? Saltwater pools are actually just as effective in killing harmful germs and bacteria as chlorine pools are. Read on for more pros and cons of saltwater pools.
Can you convert a pool to saltwater? If you ever change your mind or want to try the alternative out, it is more than possible to convert your chlorine pool to a saltwater pool by installing a salt chlorination system. Saltwater pools can also be converted to chlorine pools.
Want to keep up with our work? Check out our instagram page.