Chlorine VS Salt Debate
One of the most debated choices when choosing a method of sanitation for a new and/or existing pool.
Which is the better way to go?
Better put, which is the best choice for your home long term?
To put it simply, both are great options and have their own benefits and neither are better than each other but rather alternatives that carry their own pros and cons. It is a frequent misconception that using a saltwater generator means no chlorine. Saltwater pools do however have less chlorine compared to a conventional chlorine pool because it is produced on the spot at a steady level.
The following are Pros and Cons to both options.
Chlorine Pool Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Less costly initial investment
+ Uses less power/electricity
+ Requires less servicing that needs the assistance of a pool technician
+ Does not cause damage or corrosion to pool features
+ Can be used with any pool
Cons
- Higher levels of chlorine
- Manually needs to be added to the pool / chlorinator
- Needs to be repetitively purchased
Salt Pool Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Generates chlorine, no need to purchase chlorine pucks
+ Can control amount being dispensed at a turn of a button
+ More even dispensing, which benefits individuals with sensitive skin, bathing suits, children, dyed hair, and the vinyl liner
+ Harder environment for algae to grow
Cons
+ More costly initial investment
+ Uses more power/electricity and could require an electrician to hook up depending on the location of install
+ Requires more servicing that needs the assistance of a pool technician at times
+ Can cause damage or corrosion to pool features if parameters are not property balanced
+ High cost of pool - recommended to combine with a pool that is made of fiberglass, polymer, or resin
Important things to consider when making the decision:
1. Going salt does not mean you do not have to use any chemicals, you use the same amount of balancing chemicals, only the maintenance chemicals are reduced due to the salt generator producing chlorine on the spot.
2. Using a saltwater system means that metal surfaces are more likely to corrode and wear down equipment over time if they are not made to work with salt.
3. A salt system has a higher upfront cost. The saltwater system is made to last an average of 7 years however their longevity strongly depends on your upkeep. Poor upkeep will result in quicker wear down of the equipment. For proper maintenance always refer to the user guide manual provided with your system.