If you’re considering investing in a pool and are having trouble choosing a saltwater system because of the things you’ve heard about them, the following saltwater chlorination myths might just change your mind.
1) A salt pool’s water is like ocean water
One of the biggest myths surrounding saltwater pools is that the water is just as salty as ocean water, but that’s far from being the case. The reality is that saltwater pools contain only about a tenth of the amount of salt that ocean water has — which is about as salty as a human tear. Because saltwater pools are usually as salty as human tears, that meant that the water will never irritate your eyes in the same way that chlorinated pools do.
2) Saltwater pools require a lot of maintenance
A common myth surrounding saltwater pools is that they require tons of maintenance, but that is also just a myth. In fact, saltwater pools are generally easier to maintain than chlorinated pools. Once you get used to the process of maintenance, you’ll realize how much of a time-saver these pools are.
Not only will you be spending less time cleaning and maintaining it, but you’ll likely also be spending less money on chemicals in the long run. The reason for this is that a saltwater pool converts salt to chlorine through a process of electrolysis. You therefore will not need to add as much chlorine to your pool unless you need to shock it.
Although they are easier to maintain, keep in mind that there’s still some general upkeep that needs to be done. You’ll still be needing to check the water chemistry to see if the free chlorine, pH, calcium hardness, stabilizer, and alkalinity levels are in the right ranges. It’s recommended that you do this at least once per week and make changes when necessary.
3) Making the switch to saltwater pools is extremely complicated
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not that complicated to make the switch from a chlorinated pool to a saltwater pool. It’s actually extremely simple! Simply choose your chlorinator, install it, add salt, turn on the pool pump, and let it run for 24 hours. Depending on the size of your pool, you’ll need to adjust how much salt you use. A pool professional can help you determine the right amount.
When making the switch from a chlorinated pool to a saltwater pool, you won’t even need to drain the water beforehand. This is a common misconception and often acts as a deterrent for those considering the switch.
4) There’s no chlorine in saltwater pools
As mentioned above, there is still some chlorine in saltwater pools. The difference is that the chlorine comes from the salt that you add in the pool. An electrical current runs through the saltwater, which then converts the salt molecules into chlorine via electrolysis.
Though there is still chlorine in the pool, there are less chloramines. Chloramines are usually the biggest culprit when it comes to dry skin and irritated eyes after a day of swimming. It’s also was causes that unpleasant chlorine smell.
5) Saltwater pools will damage your pool equipment
Though it is true that saltwater is corrosive to some pool appliances, it’s not the case for all pool appliances. Typically, corrosion will occur in older pool appliance models. Ever since saltwater pools have become popularized, newer appliances have been made to withstand high levels of salinity.
Therefore, if you’re looking to make the switch from a chlorinated pool to a saltwater pool, you might want to check with a pool professional if your appliances can handle it. If not, you may need to get yourself a newer equipment to go along with your brand-new system.
6) You don’t need any other chemicals
It would be nice to live in a world where pool chemicals weren’t a necessity. Alas, that’s not the world we live in. Even if your generator converts the salt to chlorine for you, you’ll still need to add other chemicals to ensure the water’s safe to swim in. This includes products such as shock, muriatic acid, and algaecide. Always check your water balance and adjust the levels when needed. This, along with the salt you’ll need to purchase, will ensure that your pool water is clean.
Although you still do need to add these chemicals to your pool, you’ll likely find yourself having to add less of them than you would with a chlorinated pool because it stays cleaner for a longer period of time. Where you would normally spend 200$-400$ on chemicals for a chlorinated pool, you’ll find yourself spending about 70$-100$ on a saltwater one.
7) Saltwater pools are a lot more expensive
While it is true that the initial cost of a saltwater pool is greater than the initial cost of its counterpart, it was a best return on investment. Because they don’t require much in terms of operational costs, you can expect to recoup your start-up investment after a few years. This, of course, doesn’t take into consideration the costs of purchasing new bathing suits due to the fading effect chlorine has on the fabrics.
However, do keep in mind that your electricity bills may be a bit higher with a saltwater system. But again, your pool will still be much less expensive in terms of maintenance costs.
8) Saltwater pools will dry out your skin
Because people tend to think that saltwater pools contain the same level of salt as ocean water, there’s this great misconception that the water will dry out your skin and irritate your eyes when in fact, chlorinated water is much more drying and irritating.
One of the greatest benefits of investing in a saltwater pool is that the water is much softer and gentler on the skin. Moreover, there is much less risk of your hair turning green if you’ve recently bleached it. However, you do still have to ensure that the water is properly balanced or you might not reap the benefits that a saltwater pool has to offer.
If you’re unsure about how to go about maintaining your pool and balancing it, contact a pool professional. Your pool professional can offer you weekly cleaning services or training sessions to ensure that your water is always clean and safe to swim in.
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