The Many Benefits Of A Saltwater Pool
If you live somewhere that is known for its hot, summer days, getting a saltwater pool can be a good idea. It doesn’t burn your eyes, breaks down the materials of the pool slower, and is less harsh on your skin. In fact, now that more and more people understand the benefits of a saltwater pool, they have become a common choice for residential pools, hotels, day spas, and more.
Key Takeaways
- Saltwater pools still use chlorine, but they produce it through electrolysis, creating a steadier and lower-level sanitising system.
- They are easier on the eyes, skin and lungs, and are often preferred by people with allergies, asthma or sensitive skin.
- Saltwater pools reduce the need for handling harsh chemicals and can be cheaper to run over time.
- They still require maintenance and an upfront investment in a salt chlorinator, but many owners find the comfort and convenience worth it.
How A Saltwater Pool Works
It is important to note that saltwater pools are not completely chlorine-free. Instead of adding chlorine directly to the water, they use a salt chlorinator to convert dissolved salt into chlorine through a process called electrolysis. This creates the sanitiser needed to kill bacteria, neutralise contaminants, and help keep the water clean and clear.
Because this chlorine is generated gradually and continuously, a saltwater pool maintains a more consistent level of sanitiser than many traditional chlorine systems. This can create a more comfortable swimming experience while still keeping the pool sanitary.
How Does A Salt Chlorinator System Work?
For a salt chlorinator system to work, you have to add the required amount of salt to the pool and wait until it is properly dissolved. As this salt enters the salt chlorine generator, a small current will be applied that converts the salt into the right quantity of chlorine needed in your pool. This filtered pool water mixed with chlorine is returned for sanitisation, and the process continues.
There are a number of different water systems available, and having a saltwater system can help you make the most out of your pool. Talk to a professional on how to create the right saltwater pool experience for your family members and friends.
Benefits Of A Saltwater Pool
1. Continuous Disinfection
A saltwater pool disinfection system uses chlorine to kill germs and neutralise contaminants in the water. Inside the chlorinator, salt passes through charged plates and is converted into sanitising compounds that clean the pool water in much the same way as a traditional chlorine system. Because the salt is already dissolved in the water, your pool benefits from a continuous and steady chlorine supply.
2. Less Chemical Handling
One of the biggest advantages of a saltwater pool is that it reduces the need to handle and store harsh pool chemicals. In a traditional chlorine pool, owners often need to add tablets, granules or liquid chlorine regularly. With a saltwater system, the chlorine is self-produced, so there is less need for frequent chemical dosing.
This can be especially appealing for households with children or pets, as salt is generally safer to store than concentrated chlorine products.
3. Gentler On Eyes
Traditional chlorinated water can leave your eyes burning, red, or irritated after a swim. Saltwater pools generally contain much lower chlorine levels, which makes them more comfortable for many swimmers. While some people assume a saltwater pool would sting like the ocean, that is not the case. Ocean water has a salinity of roughly 35,000 ppm, while a saltwater pool is usually around 3,000 to 3,500 ppm.
That lower salinity level is one reason saltwater pools are often described as feeling much more pleasant and less irritating than standard chlorine pools.
4. Softer On Skin And Hair
Saltwater is widely known for feeling softer on the skin. It can help the skin retain moisture and is often considered a more comfortable option for people with sensitive skin. Compared with heavily chlorinated water, which may leave skin feeling dry and itchy, saltwater pools tend to feel smoother and more luxurious.
For some swimmers, this softer feel extends to hair as well, making the overall swimming experience more enjoyable.
5. Better For Sensitive Swimmers
Saltwater pools can be a better option for people with allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivity. Highly chlorinated pools can sometimes aggravate lungs and airways, particularly in enclosed environments. Because saltwater pools tend to produce lower levels of chloramines, they are often seen as a gentler option for swimmers who are sensitive to strong chemical exposure.
Some people also enjoy the soothing feel of saltwater for general aches and stiffness, adding to the comfort factor.
6. Lower Chlorine Smell
That strong “pool smell” commonly associated with chlorine pools is usually caused by chloramines that build up as chlorine reacts with contaminants in the water. Saltwater systems generally maintain more stable chlorine levels, which can help reduce chloramine build-up and the unpleasant odour that comes with it.
The result is water that smells fresher and a swimming experience that feels cleaner overall.
7. Easier Maintenance
Saltwater pools are often considered easier to manage because the chlorinator produces the sanitiser your pool needs automatically. Rather than manually adding chlorine as often, you simply monitor the system, test the water regularly, and keep the equipment in good condition.
Many owners choose saltwater because they require less maintenance in day-to-day pool care. While no pool is maintenance-free, the routine can feel simpler and more consistent.
8. Lower Running Costs Over Time
A saltwater pool usually involves a higher upfront investment because you need a salt chlorinator and related equipment. However, the ongoing cost of salt is often lower than the cost of buying traditional chlorine products over time. This is one reason many pool owners consider saltwater pools more economical in the long run.
Combined with the reduced need for chemical handling, the lower maintenance costs can make the system worthwhile for many households.
9. A More Luxurious Swimming Experience
Many people simply prefer the feel of a saltwater pool. The water is often described as silky, soft, and crystal clear. Because the chlorine level is lower and more stable, the water can feel less harsh and more enjoyable to swim in, helping create a more premium backyard pool experience.
Things To Consider Before Choosing A Saltwater System
Although there are many benefits, saltwater pools are not completely maintenance-free. You still need to test and balance the water, clean the cell when required, and run the pool pump for an adequate amount of time each day. In some cases, larger pools may need longer pump run times to maintain water quality.
Salt can also be corrosive to some surrounding materials and fittings if they are not suitable for a saltwater environment. It is a good idea to wash down nearby surfaces such as concrete, equipment, and timber decking with fresh water after use, and to ensure that any handrails or accessories are compatible with a saltwater system.
If you are comparing sanitising options, it can help to understand the differences between available water systems so you can choose the best fit for your pool, your maintenance preferences, and your budget.
Is A Saltwater Pool Right For You?
A saltwater pool can be an excellent choice if you want water that feels gentler, requires less chemical handling, and offers a more comfortable swimming experience. For families who value softer-feeling water, lower odour, and simpler day-to-day maintenance, a saltwater system is often a strong option.
If you are also interested in the way saltwater can feel on the body, you can read more about how swimming in a saltwater pool may have therapeutic effects for some swimmers.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when choosing a pool sanitising system, but saltwater pools continue to be a popular choice for good reason. If you would like advice on the right setup for your backyard or want to explore your options further, reach out to the team at Barrier Reef Pools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are saltwater pools chlorine-free?
Are saltwater pools easier to maintain than chlorine pools?
Do saltwater pools sting your eyes like the ocean?
Are saltwater pools better for sensitive skin?
Are saltwater pools cheaper to run?
They often cost more upfront because of the salt chlorinator, but running costs can be lower over time because salt is generally cheaper than buying traditional chlorine products.