When considering a custom or in-ground pool for your backyard, as we’ve mentioned before, there’s a lot to think about. From fun things like shape and color to more tedious but equally (or, sometimes, more) important aspects such as filtration systems and water type, you’re in charge of everything.
In the last two decades or so, a new element has been added that many are choosing, which is utilizing a saltwater system rather than one with pure chlorine. While a saltwater system still contains chlorine, it still has some key benefits. Here are a few of our favorite pros to keep in mind throughout your pool-building process.
Sanitization
First of all, a saltwater pool is nowhere near as salty as ocean water, and its purpose is completely different. In a pool, salt exists for the same reason as traditional chlorine chemicals: to decontaminate your water.
One of the myths of saltwater pools is that the salt replaces chlorine. Instead, saltwater and chlorine work together for a gentler but still very effective decontamination process. While chlorine has its uses – especially in larger, public pools – saltwater is just as good for the home, with many other benefits.
Clean, Clear Water
Often, people choose saltwater pools because they’ve been in one before and were able, as many are, to immediately see the difference in the quality of water. Saltwater pool water is visibly clearer to look at, and when in the water, it often feels cleaner.
Chlorine water sometimes has reduced visibility and can feel much thicker, sticking to your body both during and after your swim. This is especially noticeable in the heat of the summer, when the water warms up. Water even just a bit cleaner can make a huge difference.
Reduced Irritation
We all know that swimming all day – especially with no goggles – leads to stinging, sleepy eyes. Sometimes heavily chlorinated systems, like those used in waterparks or at a city pool, can also cause skin irritation and even allergies.
A saltwater system can give you a more gentle swim experience than a full chlorine one. While you should usually use goggles either way, saltwater is also less intense on the eyes so you aren’t fighting sleep before the guests have even left. Also, if anyone that will be using your pool has sensitive skin, saltwater can be a much lighter, more relaxing option.
Lower Cost
Now, anyone who has a saltwater pool knows that the installation is typically more money to install the system than a chlorine system. However, in the long run, a saltwater system usually costs less to operate. The savings come by way of spending less on your pool chemicals during the pool season. There are some parts of the salt water system that will eventually need to be serviced, or replaced, but most of the time you will still find yourself coming out ahead.
Reduced Smell
Everyone who’s ever swam in a chlorine pool knows: they have a distinct smell. It’s not necessarily a bad smell, and if you choose chlorine for your pool, it’s not a dealbreaker. If it was, we wouldn’t still be making chlorine pools.
However, it is a strong smell, lingering for a long time after using the pool until you can jump in the shower. The film that sometimes lingers after using a chlorine pool, along with the smell, can be annoying, especially if you plan on using the pool every day. A saltwater pool still requires you to rinse off at the end of the day, but the smell is much lighter, as is the sensation on your skin when finished.
Softer Water
We get it; this one kind of sounds like something that a salesman would say, something that almost no one really notices. However, many customers do in fact report that not only is saltwater cleaner and clearer, it’s also softer.
What does softer mean? Good question. “Soft” water is just a way of describing the weight and texture of water. Whereas fresh water, like that in a lake, or chlorinated water, in a pool, might be thicker, and harsh to your eyes or skin, saltwater in pools is known for silky smooth texture, even more so than ocean water.
Whether this is your first time reading about a saltwater pool or you’ve been doing research for months, we’re here for you. Contact Spartan today to learn how we can partner with you to help create the pool (and patio!) of your dreams. Also, be sure to download our free guide to learn what you should consider before designing a pool!
