A pool is a great investment, and with such an array of designs, you have more options than ever. At some point in your quest to find the perfect pool and spa, there’s a good chance you’ll come across the salt water vs. chlorinated pool debate. Although they sound completely different from one another, the line between the two is thin.
Salt Water Pool vs. Chlorine: Which is Better?
It’s important to remember that salt water pools still contain chlorine. The chlorine level is typically lower in a salt water pool but is present in both. When weighing the pros and cons of each pool, it’s important to think about the long-term benefits and cost associated with each.
Costs: Up-front and Long Term
The initial cost of a chlorinated pool is much less than salt water. This is due in part to the cost of the salt water generator. The chlorine found in a salt water pool isn’t added externally but is created from chemical electrolysis that occurs within the salt water chlorinator. This chlorinator is powered by a generator that must run for an average of 8 hours per day. This means that your electric bill is likely to go up too.
Maintenance Matters
Both pools require vigilance in testing the pH levels of the water. In a chlorinated pool, you may need to add chemicals to restore balance, whereas a salt water pool might require muriatic acid to clean the salt cells. Those cells will also need to be replaced every couple of years, and average around $500. In addition to regular maintenance, salt water pools require annual draining, which is a big undertaking.
Damage Risks
If you’ve ever lived near the ocean, then you know how corrosive salt water can be. Metals rust quickly and with just a little exposure. Surfaces around the pool will likely develop salt ring stains. Natural stone erodes, and nearby plants and grass often die. If you have sensitive skin, salt water can cause irritation and itchiness. Salt is naturally abrasive, which is something to consider when thinking about long-term maintenance.
Lowering the Chlorine Requirements in a Chlorinated Pool
A combination of zodiac fusion and adding ozone to a chlorinated pool can significantly lower the necessary chlorine levels. Zodiac fusion introduces copper and silver ions to the water. Adding ozone serves as a super shock and kills harmful bugs and pathogens in the pool. Together, they effectively lower the amount of chlorine needed to keep a chlorinated pool clean. Aquascapes utilizes both of these techniques in all our chlorinated pools
Find What Suits You Best
Chlorinated pools have been around for more than 70 years, while salt water pools are a more recent invention. The reliability and cost of a chlorinated pool have made it the gold standard. The salt water pool vs. chlorine debate has valid pros and cons on each side. It comes down to what will give you the most value with the least damage to surrounding features.
Contact Us to learn more about zodiac fusion and how it can work in your pool!