Chlorine vs. Saltwater

We're back again today with another edition of Tutorial Tuesday from ePoolSupply! On Tuesday's, we like to inform our customer of the newest and latest news regarding pool technology. Today we'll be discussing the differences between a Chlorine Pool and a Saltwater Pool as well as the Pros and Cons of each. Although they are both very efficient, each has its own unique advantages. Let's dive in!

One of the main things we should discuss first is the surrounding speculation that saltwater pools contain zero chlorine. This couldn't be further from the truth, ! Contrary to popular belief, they are not chlorine-free. Saltwater pools use a process called “electrolysis” to produce just enough chlorine to disinfect the water. Commonly referred to as chlorine generators, saltwater pool systems make an electrolysis process with a control box and a salt cell. As pool water passes through the cell its exposed to a low voltage of electric current sent from the control box, which separates the sodium atom from the chlorine atom and essentially transforms the salt into sodium hypochlorite and hypochlorous acid. Hypochlorous acid is the same sanitizing component produced when any type of chlorine is added to pool water. 

Saltwater Pools

Pros

• Lower chlorine levels make saltwater pools gentler on skin and eyes. This is a great choice if the pool is to be used by young children and athletes who are immersed for long periods of time.
• Chlorine levels in saltwater pools are enough to disinfect, but not enough to fade expensive swimwear and gear.
• Because of the natural chlorine, saltwater pools require fewer chemicals compared to chlorinated pools.

Cons

• A saltwater pool is more expensive than a traditional pool because it requires a higher initial investment.
• Compared to chlorinated pools, a saltwater pools system is more complex. Both minor and major repairs will call for the expertise of a licensed (and specialized) technician.
• Saltwater can damage. You will need to purchase underwater lighting, heaters, fixtures, liners, and masonry work specific to saltwater pools. Which will end up being for costly when doing pool renovations.
• Salt will have to be tested and added periodically to keep the pool sanitized. 

Chlorine Pools

Chlorine pools are popular because it is cheaper to install and easier to maintain. Unlike its saltwater counterpart, chlorine is added rather than naturally produced.

Pros

• The initial investment is less. Much less.
• Chlorine pools use less electricity. Saltwater pools require a special salt chlorine generator to convert salt into chlorine. Chlorine pools, on the other hand, merely require a pump (to circulate the water in your pool, which prevents dirt, bacteria, and algae from multiplying in the water), and cleaning equipment.
• No extra parts to disassemble and clean. 

Cons

• Chlorine is known to be harsh on the skin, eyes, and hair. Swimmers should invest in bath products that effectively remove chlorine. Can also be very harmful to any pool deck painting if you did not choose the correct paint.
• Chlorine pools require constant vigilance to kill excess bacteria. This means that you need to check on chlorine content on a regular basis. In addition, other chemicals such as balancing agents, need to be added consistently. Bottom line: you need to up your budget to maintain a chlorine pool and have someone habitually check on your pool’s chemical composition.
• Chlorine must be stored properly. You may have to dedicate an exclusive area free from moisture to keep components active.

If you have any questions about the information provided in this guide, please feel free to reach out to us directly. Our team of Pool Professionals is here to assist you with whatever you need! 

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