Saltwater pools have gained popularity among homeowners who want more relaxed swimming experiences and fewer chemical additives. If you’re a pool owner looking to reduce eye irritation and chemical odors, you might be curious about how saltwater systems work and whether they live up to the hype. Many people worry about safety hazards in pool environments, which is why some also explore topics such as ways you can get sick from pool water to learn how to protect themselves and their families.
Compared to traditional chlorine alternatives, saltwater systems promise softer, silkier water. They still use chlorine for sanitization, but it’s generated through a special process. This article looks at the key benefits, common pitfalls, and essential maintenance practices for saltwater pools. It’s intended for anyone who’s thinking about installing a salt-based system or planning to convert an existing setup.
Before diving into the details, it’s also helpful to understand how soft water compares to hard water if you’re curious about water composition. For more insights on water hardness, consider looking at how soft water compares to hard water and its possible health impacts.
What Are Saltwater Pools?
A saltwater pool uses a salt chlorine generator, sometimes called a salt chlorinator. The generator converts dissolved salt into a mild form of chlorine, which helps sanitize the water. The content of salt in these pools is typically around 3,000 parts per million. This is far lower than ocean water, which can have 35,000 ppm or more.
The chlorinator includes a control unit and a salt cell. As water cycles through the cell, an electrical charge splits salt molecules into chlorine. This steady flow of new chlorine keeps algae and bacteria in check without requiring as many store-bought chemicals.
Historically, salt-based systems first took hold in Australia in the 1960s but didn’t become widespread in the United States until the late 1980s. Technological improvements have since made today’s systems more stable and efficient.
Key Benefits of Saltwater Pools
Softer on Skin, Eyes, and Hair
Many swimmers claim that salt-based water feels gentler on the body. According to a survey by Pool and Spa News, 90% of saltwater pool owners reported less skin and eye irritation compared to their experiences with traditional chlorine. This difference is linked to reduced chloramine levels, chemical byproducts that can cause itching and redness.
Reduced Chemical Odor
Saltwater pools often lack the intense smell that’s common with heavily chlorinated setups. Because the system is continuously generating a controlled amount of chlorine, harsh chlorine spikes can be avoided. This steady balance helps reduce the odors that typically come from large amounts of added chemicals.
Potential Downsides to Consider
Higher Initial Investment
The upfront expense of adding a salt chlorinator can be a drawback. A salt chlorinator might cost between $500 and $2,500, depending on the size and complexity of the system. Additionally, any metal parts that are not specially coated may need upgrading to withstand continuous contact with salt.
While installing a salt-based system can be pricey, many owners appreciate that monthly chemical bills drop. According to Aqua Magazine findings, a typical salt pool might cost $70–$100 annually for chemicals, versus $300–$400 for a traditional chlorine system.
Risk of Corrosion
Salt can potentially corrode certain metals, stone surfaces, and older pool finishes. Some owners add sacrificial anodes—small metal units designed to attract corrosion instead of the pool’s major components. In places with older or sensitive materials, it’s common to watch for signs of rust around ladders, railings, or other metal fixtures.
If you’re curious about other ways salt might be used in self-care, you might consider washing your face with salt water. Keep in mind that salt levels in pools are not the same as simple warm saltwater rinses for skin or hair.
Maintenance and Costs
Chlorinator Care
Though many people find saltwater pools easier to manage, regular maintenance is still important. Over time, calcium can build up on the cell, especially in regions with harder water. The cell typically requires cleaning anywhere from every two months to once a year, based on mineral content and overall use.
If cleaning is neglected, chlorine production drops off quickly. A well-maintained salt chlorinator may last anywhere from three to seven years. Frequent heavy use and poor water quality can shorten this life span.
Testing and Balancing pH
Salt-based setups often produce a gradual rise in pH. If pH drifts too high, chlorine becomes less effective at killing germs, and scaling may occur along pool walls. The National Swimming Pool Foundation discovered that saltwater pools may need pH adjustments 30% more often than standard chlorine pools (National Swimming Pool Foundation, 2022). Owners usually keep pH at 7.2–7.6 to maintain a comfortable environment.
Regular tests for alkalinity (80–120 ppm) and stabilizer (cyanuric acid, 60–80 ppm) are also recommended. This helps maintain consistent chlorine levels without major swings, which improves swimmer comfort.
Comparisons: Saltwater vs. Traditional Chlorine Pools
In a basic sense, saltwater and traditional chlorine pools both rely on chlorine. The difference lies in how that chlorine enters the water. Traditional systems require you to buy chlorine tablets or shock. A salt system handles that behind the scenes by converting dissolved salt into chlorine.
The gentler feel of a salt pool often wins people over, but the generator adds a layer of complexity to troubleshooting. If a sensor or the salt cell fails, a specialized technician may be needed. Traditional setups can be simpler for do-it-yourself owners to fix, though you then handle chlorine more frequently.
Installation and Conversion
Some homeowners who already have a chlorine setup decide to switch to salt. Converting usually involves hooking a salt chlorinator into the return line, adding pool-grade salt, and making sure your existing equipment can handle salt exposure. Additional salt might be required occasionally as the pool water cycles out from splashing or backwashing.
Construction practices for a new saltwater pool aren’t drastically different from a standard pool, aside from selecting corrosion-resistant parts. Stone coping, metal fixtures, and certain finishes might need extra attention when planning a salt-based design.
Can Saltwater Pools Affect Your Health?
While chlorine serves as the primary disinfectant, some owners say that swimming in salt water feels refreshing and less irritating. According to Healthline, the lower chloramine levels can help swimmers with sensitive skin, although evidence for specific health advantages is still being studied. For the majority of people, salt-based pools don’t pose extra health hazards beyond those found in conventional options.
Slightly elevated salt levels rarely bother individuals with normal skin. However, if someone has open cuts or is extremely sensitive, they should watch for irritation. For those curious about other uses of salt in water, you can read about the benefits of a sea salt bath and compare that experience to a pool setting.
Typical Questions About Saltwater Pools
Is the water actually salty like the ocean?
Not particularly. Most salt pool systems run at about 3,000 ppm, while ocean water exceeds 30,000 ppm. The taste is much milder.
Does a salt system eliminate chlorine entirely?
No. The water is still chlorinated, but through electrolysis rather than added chlorine tablets or liquid. The lower chlorine levels often feel milder on skin and eyes.
Will I save money overall?
Many owners notice lower monthly chemical bills, sometimes as low as $70-$100 per year for a 20,000-gallon pool. However, the entry cost for a chlorinator and the need for potential equipment updates might be higher at the start.
How often should I add salt?
Salt is not consumed during the sanitization process, so you often add it only when water is lost. Large backwashes or heavy splash-out may require an occasional top-up.
Can cold climates use salt systems?
Yes, though extremely cold regions sometimes face limitations if the water temperature drops too low for the generator to operate. Some owners temporarily switch to traditional sanitizers during extended cold snaps.
Wrapping Up
Saltwater pools offer a gentler swimming experience and potentially lower ongoing chemical bills. They do come with higher upfront costs and a few corrosion concerns, but regular maintenance generally keeps the water balanced and the equipment functioning well. If you’d like to explore more ways to stay active in water, you could consider popular pool exercises to stay active, which can be done in either salt or traditional setups.
Whether you decide on a new installation or a conversion, saltwater pools can provide an appealing alternative to standard chlorine methods. Make sure to test your water regularly, clean the chlorinator to prevent buildup, and speak with a professional if you have concerns about materials or unusual maintenance issues. Many owners find that once they’ve made the switch, the gentler feel in the water is enough to make them stick with salt-based systems for the long haul.
References
- National Swimming Pool Foundation. (2022). “Saltwater vs. Traditional Chlorine Pools.” Available at: https://intheswim.com/eguides/salt-water-pools-guide.html
- Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. (2021). “Industry Statistics and Data.” Available at: https://www.thepoolbutler.net/resource/pros-and-cons-of-a-saltwater-pool/
- Healthline. “Saltwater Pools: Benefits, Risks, and More.” (2023). Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/salt-water-pool
