Saltwater vs Chlorine Pools

Saltwater vs Chlorine Pools which is the better option?

So you are, or you have just become a pool owner? You have heard about the hype of saltwater vs chlorine pools. However, you are not really sure which one to choose?

Well, you have come to the right place. We can guide you on making the best choice.

Before we start, I would like to throw in my two cents. I apologize to the pool shops around, but in my opinion, it is honestly a great concept. However, the quality of the products is just pathetic.

In my entire career as a pool specialist, I have been to only 2 or 3 clients’ houses where the chlorinator was actually functioning. These were the higher-end chlorinators such as the intelichlor.

So let’s see what the differences are between Saltwater vs Chlorine pools.

Saltwater vs Chlorine pools

Pros and Cons of a Saltwater Pool

• The upfront cost is pretty expensive for the salt chlorinator. We are talking anything from R8500 – R20 000, and that is just the unit. Then there is the installation cost, which will be anything from R1200 – R2000.
• You will need to clean the chlorinator from time to time to get rid of excess salt buildup.
• Replacement of the Cell is needed once a year or once every 2 years, depending on the quality of the unit. This also holds a hefty price.
• Saltwater is more hygienic.
• Less skin irritations and red eyes.
• Requires salt to be added to the pool initially.
• Less monthly chemicals required, so there is a saving here.
• Can be downgraded to a chlorinated pool.
• A technician is required if something goes wrong or breaks.
• Monitors chlorine and salt levels, depending on the unit.
• Puts the required amount of chlorine into your pool automatically.

Pros and Cons of a Chlorine Pool

• No upfront cost except for a bucket of chlorine.
• Known to have reactions for sensitive skin types.
• Can be upgraded to a saltwater pool.
• Easy to fix yourself.
• Higher monthly chemical spending.

Good to know

If you really want a saltwater pool but do not have the money to spend on the equipment, you can filter salt through filter sand.

This means getting a few bags of salt from your local pool supply shop and dropping them into your pool.

The sand will filter it. The thing is, you do not have a chlorinator to convert salt into chlorine, so you will need to add the chlorine yourself and constantly test the salt level.

This is a cheap and effective way if you are not sure about which option is best for you.