
There are two types of swimming pools: freshwater and saltwater. And while the former implies that your pool is chemical-less, the assumption is inaccurate. Instead, the reality is every pool, regardless of its designation, has chlorine. This inclusion is because chlorine is responsible for killing algae, bacteria and other substances that may be in the water. In doing so, the chlorine keeps you pool sanitised and safe to swim in.
So, where does the fresh/saltwater designation come from?
Freshwater pools rely on freshwater chlorinators with silver and copper anodes to sanitise and clean the pool without chemicals or chlorine. On the other hand, saltwater pools have saltwater chlorinators that convert pool salt into chlorine; thus creating the necessary sanitising compounds that ensure the pool’s safety.
Saltwater pools are becoming increasingly popular with Australian pool owners. There are good reasonsfor this heightened renown of saltwater pools - some of which are listed below. So, keep reading to find out some of the benefits of choosing a saltwater pool.
1. No worrying about chlorine levels
Because saltwater pools are effectively self-regulating (they are able to manage chlorination levels themselves), they eliminate your need to invest so much time checking up on your swimming pool. However, don’t mistake this attribute with the chance to keep a completely hands-off approach to caring for your pool. Instead, please note that you will still have to periodically monitor the chlorine levels- although nowhere near as much as a traditional pool.
2. No chlorine build up
Chlorine build-ups in swimming poolsoften cause issues like red, burning eyesand in some worst case-scenarios, may even trigger asthmatic reactions in those that are prone. This tendency can be particularly worrying if you have children as they are typically more sensitive to the effects of chlorine.
Conversely, because saltwater pools easily maintain the right chlorine levels, you don’t have to fret about the possibilities of such occurrences.
3. Better for your health
Saltwater is better for your health overall. In fact, there are centuries of anecdotes and (more recently) studies demonstrating the healing properties of salt.So, while your saltwater pool is only about 1/10th as salty as the ocean, it is still the healthier alternative.
4. Feels better on the skin
Have you noticed that your skin gets really dry and uncomfortable after a session in the swimming pool? This dryness is an effect of the chlorine. However, a saltwater system helps mitigate this outcome as thesaltwater offers a more moisturising effect. Therefore, opting for a saltwater pool is much better for your skin’s health.
5. Easier to maintain
As mentioned above, the self-regulating property of saltwater pools releases you from having to constantly check and verify that your pool chlorine levels remain optimum. In addition, as long as your chlorinator remains in good condition, you only have to monitor the pool’s dilution levels (particularly during the rainy season and when you top after water loss due to evaporation) and replenish the salt amounts accordingly.
6. Saves money in the longer term
While a saltwater pool can present higher initial installation costs, you are still likely to save more money in the long run. This difference stems from the use of salt instead of chlorine- the former of which is cheaper and easier to buy in bulk.
If you are thinking of installing a swimming pool as the summer season approaches, then a saltwater pool may be the best option. It offers numerous benefits that enhance the health advantages of swimming as a day-to-day activity while easing the pool care and maintenance process.So, consult your local pool installer today for more information if you’re interested in purchasing a saltwater pool.