You may be wondering what the difference between a “salt water pool vs chlorine pool“? This page will explain the differences between the two and help you determine which is best suited to what kind of swimming pool life style you want.
What is a Salt Water Pool?
Salt water pools work as a result of salt water generators that use chemical electrolysis to lessen the amount chlorine in the pool, and while those generators require a little more expensive, they can be more cost effective in the long run. It is much easier than having to constantly buy chlorine tablets. They also do away with the draw backs of chlorine tablets, such as the chlorine smell and the dry skin that comes after swimming. The pool’s pH, alkalinity and calcium hardness must be properly maintained by testing and adjusting the levels as necessary, just as with a traditional chlorine pool. You will also need chemicals to keep the pool stabilized. You will also still need to use a chlorine stabilizer, to help control the degrading of UV chlorine.
Salt Water Pool Advantages and Disadvantages
Salt Water Pool Advantages
- Gentler on eyes, skin and hair
- Desirable stress-relieving soft water
- Costs less to maintenance
- No heavy chlorine smell
- Better for muscle joints
Salt Water Pool Disadvantages
- Initial cost is more expensive
- Maintenance may require an expert
- Can cause damage to pool accessories and decking
- pH levels are harder to manage
- The cost to run the generators is expensive
Cost to Run a Salt Water Pool
One of the main drawbacks is price. Salt water pool generators can run you from $350, up to $1,500, depending on the size of your pool. Salt water pools are also more expensive to run, as the generators can run up to 12 hours a day during pool season. They do however cut down on the time it takes to keep the pool clean. Another thing, if a problem comes up the home owner may have to call a professional, as salt water pools are a little more complex.
What is a Chlorine Pool?
Chlorine pools use chlorine tablets to keep the pool water disinfected and clean. As you won’t have a generator to help keep the pool clean, you will need to keep the pH levels correct. Your pool’s pH, alkalinity and calcium hardness must be correctly maintained by testing and adjusting the levels as needed. Because of this too much chlorine can dry out skin and hair, and sometimes can irritate the eyes. The chemicals keep the pool clean and safe to swim in, however does no favors for our hair and skin.
Chlorine Pool Advantages and Disadvantages
Chlorine Pool Advantages
- Cheaper alternative to salt water pools
- Chlorine is readily available
- Safe on pool accessories and decking
- Uses less electricity than a generator
- Extremely efficient at keeping algae at bay
Chlorine Pool Disadvantages
- armful to eyes and skin
- Chemicals can be harmful if not stored properly
- Has to be tested and maintained regularly
- Can fade clothing and swim towels
- Sometimes the chlorine smell can be unbearable
Cost to Run a Chlorine Pool
Chlorine pools are a lot more inexpensive than salt water pools, as you won’t have to buy a generator, and your power costs will be lower not having to run the generator. You will have to buy pool tablets keep the pool clean. One other thing is you will have to buy chlorine tablets; depending on the size of your pool, an 8,000 gallon pool will go through around 1-3 tablets a week. These tablets come in buckets and can weigh upwards of 50 lbs. Also, if a problem arises, the home owner can usually fix it.
Swimming Pool Gilbert, Arizona
Deciding on which type of pool you want has many factors you want to go over. Such as cost, maintenance, the size of pool you want, if you are going to use it year round. If you are unsure about the type of pool you want or if you are converting your pool, call Above All Pool Care at 480-370-1714 and get a better idea from experts on which type of pool will best suit your needs.
