fbpx

Saltwater vs Chlorine pool: Which System is Right for You?

What To Consider When Choosing A Pool System

When planning to add a pool to your home people often focus more on the ‘fun aspects’ of it such as the pool design and features you want to have. But when you get deeper into the planning stage you will come across the ‘saltwater vs chlorine pool’ debate. You’ll need to choose whether you want a traditional chlorine system or a saltwater system for maintaining the cleanliness of their pool. Both options will keep your pool in great shape, but they do have some significant differences and it really comes down to what will best meet your personal needs. Finding a good Pool Builder can help you make an informed decision as well, but here are some tips to consider:

Chlorine

Chlorine pucks will be continiously used throughout the year.

The chlorine pool has been around for many decades and is a tried and true method for pool maintenance. With this system, chlorine is manually added to the pool and only requires a pump which circulates the water, preventing buildup of dirt, algae, and bacteria.

Because the system is so simple and common, many issues which may arise can be fixed by the homeowner themselves.

Otherwise, finding a professional to fix something should not be an issue. In relation to the saltwater system, chlorine systems are much cheaper to install and maintain, and require less electricity. Chlorinated water also will not damage pool features (such as lighting, heating, and masonry).

Chlorine pools do require regular and frequent maintenance because the homeowner is responsible for chlorinating the pool when needed. Chlorine water is also known to be drying on the skin, harsh on the eyes, and can fade bathing suits and pool toys.

Saltwater

Typically you will add salt once a year.

Two big myths of saltwater pools are that they contain no chlorine and that they are salty like the ocean. While they contain much less chlorine than the chlorine pools, they still use chlorine to disinfect the water. Saltwater systems work through a process called “electrolysis” which uses salt to produce the minimal amount of chlorine needed to keep your pool clean.

The level of salt is nowhere near ocean levels, in fact they contain about 10x less salt than the ocean.

Many people find that, because of the lack of chemicals and low salt levels, saltwater pools are much softer on the eyes, skin, and swimsuit fabric.

However, the saltwater system is much more expensive than a chlorine system because instead of the single pump used in chlorine pools, you need a special salt chlorine generator to convert the salt to chlorine. While they are initially a much bigger investment, down the road they require much less work from you. While they have not been around for as long as chlorine pools, many people are switching to these systems because of their low need for maintenance.

Besides the initial cost, there are some other things to be aware of.

  • Saltwater is damaging to plants and soil so you would want to avoid decorating with plants around your pool.
  • It corrodes typical pool features like lighting, heating systems, and masonry so you will also need to invest in saltwater pool-specific ones which can be more costly.
  • While maintenance is usually minimal, it typically requires professional help because these systems are quite complex.

Saltwater vs Chlorine Pool Video Explanation

YouTube video

Changing Pool Systems

If you decide to go with a chlorine pool initially but later on want to make the switch, here is what you can expect.
You will need to:

  1. Select the right salt generator: It is recommended to use a generator meant for pools about 1/3 bigger than your own pool. This way it is not running at full capacity all the time. Always running at full capacity consumes large amounts of energy and will put a lot of unnecessary strain on the machine which will limit its lifespan. If the generator is too small, it will not be able to generate the amount of chlorine your pool needs.
  2. Purchase salt. Saltwater pools use non-iodized (plain table) salt. The amount needed will vary but you will simply need to follow your generator’s specifications.
  3. Eliminate phosphates. Phosphates are a food source for algae and can also act as glue for contaminates inside your generator. Phosphate test kits are inexpensive and easy to use- you can buy products which go directly in your pool to lower the phosphate levels (recommended levels are under 200 PPB).
  4. Maintain. Your generator should last 3-5 years when maintained properly. There is an abundance of products such as pool softeners which can help extend the life of your saltwater generator.

Making the Choice

If your goal is to save money and do not mind a little maintenance work during the pool season, the fixture-friendly chlorine pools might be your best option. If low maintenance is the name of the game for you, then splurging on a saltwater pool would be a great move.

Neither are without their cons but at the end of the day, they will both keep your pool safe and clear. There are many fators to consider and many will be unique to your situation, for example whether you will let dogs swim in the pool, their hair can cause a problem in pool pumps. We recommend that you consult with your Pool Builder before making a final decision as they may be able to provide you with additional information for consideration. Also note that if you are financing your swimming pool, the price difference between these two options may only be a few dollars per month.

If you are weighing up different pool options see our other comparison articles:

Disclaimer:

This blog is based on information available at the time of publishing and for the purpose of sharing information with the public related to swimming pools and projects that can be financed through Viking Capital. Although we strive to be complete and accurate, it is not information that is verified or maintained. It should not be relied upon for making financial decisions. An investment such as a swimming pool is significant. Viking Capital recommends consulting with a financial professional regarding your financing decisions and with pool professionals regarding pool options. To learn what financing options are available for you today, please apply with Viking Capital and you’ll receive your free loan consultation. Click Here to Apply.

Why Choose Viking:

Share This Post:

Download our "Top Pool Trends" eBook

Other Useful Info:

person applying refreshing coat to poolside wood decking

Pool Deck Resurfacing Options

If you have a pool deck then it’s almost certain that you’ve gotten a lot of use out of it. It’s easy to lose sight of the damage your deck’s accrued over years of fun and adventure. Thankfully, resurfacing can repair damage and even make your deck look better than it did on day one.

Read More »
man measuring and marking bricks for a decorative two tone paver pattern

Learn About Hardscaping

Your yard has some amazing and as of yet untapped potential. In fact, that’s true of most people’s yards. The true secret is proper planning and execution of hardscaping done hand in hand with general landscaping. Hardscaping done right can have a dramatic effect on your outdoor spaces and is a great option to add

Read More »
A man swimming in a hot tub.

Unwind or Train: The Dual Benefits of Owning a Swim Spa

Pools and spas are a great investment for your health. Pools offer a wide variety of fitness options and spas are a fantastic way to soothe both mind and body. They create a tremendous pairing of workout and warm down when combined. But you can also benefit from a smaller and more focused package –

Read More »
backyard deck with a pergola over some seating and a large above ground pool

Permanent Above Ground Pools – What To Consider

An Introduction to the Above-Ground Pool Experience Talk to anyone about pools long enough and one single fact will quickly become self-evident. Almost everyone wants a pool. There’s just something ubiquitous in the desire to lose yourself in a pool’s refreshing water on a hot summer day. But while everyone might be steadfast in their

Read More »

Pool Renovations – What You Need To Know

You undoubtedly want to get the most out of your property, and there are few better ways to do so than renovations. But there are some areas of renovation, like pools, that aren’t exactly straightforward. However, when you learn about what goes into the process you can get the most out of it. The renovation

Read More »
A swimming pool in the backyard of a house surrounded by palm trees.

Vinyl Liner Pools

Vinyl inground pools are one of the most popular swimming pool types. But their popularity doesn’t always go hand in hand with familiarity. There’s a lot to learn about vinyl before deciding on whether or not it’s the right option for you. And you’ll soon discover every important point about it. So when the time

Read More »

How Much Would You Like To Borrow?

Payment Calculator

FREE Loan Consultations and payment details for all applicants!

Example 1

Loan amount $40,000
Rate 5.49%
Term 15 Years
Monthly payment $327/mo.

Example 2

Loan amount $50,000
Rate 7.99%
Term 20 Years
Monthly payment $418/mo.

Loan Terms

* Loan terms and availability vary based on borrower qualifications and are subject to change without notice. Monthly payment amounts are for demonstrative purposes only and are not guaranteed to match final payment amounts for all borrowers. Your Viking Capital Loan Representative will go over all your loan options and their respective terms and payment amounts.

We are proud to offer these great loan options to our Military Families

*Eligibility requirements:

The applicant or co-applicant (or Family Member*) is active duty, military retiree, reservist, or veteran.  Branch of service: Air Force, Coast Guard, Army, Navy, Marine Corps or reserves for these branches. 

Family members must be “lineal” (spouse or direct-line ancestors and descendants. Includes family by adoption and marriage).