Pros & Cons of a saltwater system?

Most people are not aware of the benefits and differences between pool systems, so when the time comes to choose your inground pool system, the decision isn’t easy! In the last few years, the saltwater system has increased in popularity. For the environmentalists of this world, salt is less harmful than the chlorine system, making it one of the main reasons that people choose it. Before making your pool system choice, it’s important to evaluate the pros and cons of each. In this article, discover the saltwater system!

Did you know that chlorine is naturally in a salt molecule? Essentially, a salt pool is a basin filled with saltwater and chlorine. Therefore, this system uses natural chlorine that is present in the salt instead of using pure chlorine. In essence, there are no chemical products because the salt disinfects the water in a natural way. To give you an idea, a saltwater pool, has a salt concentration of 3 000 ppm (particle per million) whereas the ocean has a concentration of 35 000 ppm. Since the ppm is so low in a pool, the sensation of the salt is practically nonexistent.

Pro tip: The salt concentration in a salt system must be between 2 700 and 3 000 ppm for a perfect balance! However, there are different options on the market like a low salt version that must be kept between 1 300 and 1 500 ppm. Get informed on the different options available when purchasing your Aquarino pool accessories.

Installation and maintenance

The installation of a salt system is easily done at the beginning of the summer season. Firstly, a large quantity of salt is served in the water basin to reach a specific concentration. After that, a chlorine generator is installed to pump the water and extract the natural chlorine that is in it before its redirected in the pool. When the installation is done and the pool is open, no other manipulation is necessary! However, it’s recommended to verify the salt concentration of the water a minimum of once a month and to adjust if necessary. For example, if a heavy rain occurs, it can increase the water level and in turn the salt concentration will change.

Contrary to the chlorine system, the maintenance is quite easy and requires very little intervention during the summer. As a result, a saltwater system is best for homeowners who are “on the go” with little time they can dedicate to exterior maintenance.

Pros

The major advantage of a salt system is the fact that it is extremely low maintenance since the chlorine concentration remains constant. Furthermore, your saltwater pool is eco-friendly with a lower environmental impact than that of a chlorine pool. This system does not require the manipulation of chemical products. The result: no eye, hair or skin irritation! Also, important to note, that your swimsuits will be safe from chemical damage and the strong chlorine odor!

Albeit all these pros, there are some disadvantages to a saltwater system.

Cons

A saltwater system can seem more budget-friendly, however, there are some up-front costs. In fact, when installing a saltwater pool, the first year is the most expensive since you must purchase the generator. The generator varies in price depending on the size of the pool. This item must be checked every 5 to 6 years for maintenance and quality control. After the initial installation, yearly fees are at a minimum and include the purchase of new salt for approximately $50 a bag for a medium sized pool.

Another disadvantage is that salt can damage metal. So, if you have a metal ladder, the saltwater can cause erosion and damage it. To avoid this issue, opt for an Aquarino fiberglass pool that offers large steps as part of the pool shell. See our pool models >>

Most importantly, evaluate your needs to make the best choice for you. Budget is a factor but shouldn’t be the only one. Evaluate practicality, and maintenance when making your choice. Don’t forget to consider your values, and the importance of eco-friendliness. Don’t hesitate to ask for help during your meeting with an Aquarino specialist! Stay tuned for more information on chlorine pools coming soon.