The Pros and Cons of Salt Water Pools

The popularity of salt water pools have grown in recent years, everywhere from backyards to hotel resorts. Before you invest in a salt water swimming pool, learn about the important pros and cons associated with this type of feature.

Advantages of Salt Water Pools

First, the water in a salt water pool has less chlorine content compared to a regular pool. This is because you do not need to physically add chlorine in the pool. Instead, salt water pool systems use chlorine generators that convert salt into chlorine.

Secondly, because of the significantly lower chlorine content in the water, swimming pools that use salt water systems are less damaging to the skin. People who have very sensitive skin or those who are suffering from allergies will not have problems when they take a dip in this type of swimming pool.

Thirdly, even if they are called salt water pools, the water in these pools have lower amounts of salt than ocean water. As a matter of fact, the salt content in this type of pool is proportionately the same as that in human tears. Hence, you can safely open your eyes even while underwater. The small amount of salt in the water can also make the skin feel softer and smoother.

Lastly and most importantly, a salt water pool requires less maintenance. With this type of pool in your home, you can leave town for a couple of weeks and not worry about green algae growing in the water. The latest salt water systems are capable of monitoring cleanliness and automatically cleaning the pool water.

Disadvantages of Salt Water Pools

On the downside, a salt water swimming pool is more expensive to install compared to a regular pool. However, after the installation, you do not have to spend on buckets of chlorine. This means that you can save a lot of money in the long run and come out ahead with a salt water system or chlorine generator in your pool.

Next, many owners also complain that the salt content in the water can damage other swimming pool parts and accessories. The permanent presence of salt, no matter how small in concentration, can ruin underwater lighting systems, pool liners, and even the overall masonry work done in the pool.

Moreover, the backwash or wastewater that comes from a salt water swimming pool is known to kill plants and dissolve beneficial soil nutrients. As a result, this type of pool has been linked to crop damage in some areas in Australia and even in the US. It is not surprising that there are American towns and localities that prohibit the use of salt water swimming pools. So, you need to first check with local authorities before you invest in this type of swimming pool.

Finally, even with less maintenance, salt water pools need electricity for the chlorine generator to work. A 20,000-gallon pool will require about 500 watts of power. In short, your operating cost for this type of swimming pool will be higher compared to a traditional one.