The most common question that is asked by homeowners these days is “can my fibreglass pool be saltwater instead of chlorine?” The simple answer is yes it can. More people are choosing saltwater these days compared to the traditional chlorine pool and there are several reasons why. Just like anything, there are pros and cons to both, for example, saltwater is easier on the skin and eyes whereas chlorine is easier to run and maintain, although in saying that once you get the hang of a saltwater pool, over time it will be easier and less maintenance in the long run. Let’s take a look at some information on Salt water compared to chlorine.
Saltwater does not leave a strong smell on your body
It is no surprise that a saltwater pool means that it is much more gentle on the skin and eyes compared to chlorine. A traditional chlorine pool completely saturates your skin with chlorine leaving your skin with a strong chemical smell. People who have had both types of pools in the past have said that they feel cleaner swimming in salt water and don’t get the strong chemical smell once out of the pool as they would swimming in chlorine.
Fantastic for people with allergies
If you suffer from dry itchy skin or skin conditions such as eczema and psyroisis salt water can help and ease the discomfort. Saltwater is also the best option for anyone who is allergic to chlorine or has asthma. A study that was done in 2003 showed that children who swam in a chlorinated pool had a much larger risk of developing asthma. At this stage, more research needs to be conducted to know for sure if swimming in a saltwater pool would be the best alternative.
A Salt Water pool doesn't mean it tastes salty like the sea.
A lot of people get turned off by saltwater as they think it will leave a strong salt water taste and smell like the sea where in fact it is a very mild and subtle on the skin which allows you to open your eyes underwater.
Cleans your pool regularly
Salt water pools have systems that clean and remove germs, dirt and contaminants. Each time salt is dissolved into the water the pool is cleaned using a salt-chlorine generator which in turn turns the salt into chlorine to disinfect the pool. It is important to always still check the PH levels regularly so the pool stays nice and clean and chemically balanced.
How much does a Salt Water set up cost?
Salt water pools do cost more to set up than a chlorine pool built over time salt water will be less maintenance which in turn costs will be less. Salt water systems can cost anywhere from $1500 to $3000 to initially set up. It will save you money in the long run as you won’t need to continually keep buying chlorine tablets.
Is Salt Water safer for my body?
The simple answer is yes, salt water is safer for your body compared to chlorine, the reason for this is a salt water pool has much lower levels of chlorine compared to a traditional pool where the levels are much higher. When choosing a salt water pool chlorine is not added each week, it will only need more salt. A traditional pool has a much higher concentrated form of chlorine which is added weekly. When the salt water generator produces chlorine it is very mild and not harsh at all.
Will Salt Water in my pool cleanse my skin?
Salt water is amazing for your skin, it not only locks in moisture but it also rejuvenates, exfoliates and detoxifies your skin. Bathing your skin in your salt water pool regularly will be greatly beneficial for your skin and body.
Can a concrete pool be salt water?
Salt Water can be used in a concrete pool but it is not reccomended. Salt water can be up to 5 times for damaging to a concrete pool compared to traditional chlorine. The salt will eventually wear away the cement finish which means you will need to resurface your pool in the years to come which is a very expensive task. Salt water will generally reduce the lifespan of a concrete pool by around 5-10 years.
Can a Vinyl Liner Pool be Salt Water?
Generally speaking, the walls of Vinyl Liner Pools are made from steel, if this is the case then salt water is definitely not recommended. The salt water can cause corrosion which will reduce the life span of your pool.
Can a Fibreglass Pool be Salt Water?
Yes! a Fibreglass Pool most certainly can be salt water, in fact salt water has been the most popular choice by Australians in recent years. Fibreglass pools are very compatible with salt water systems, the reason being fibreglass pools are made from a smooth gel coat finish which is non-abrasive and doesn’t attract bacteria which means less cleaning and Maintainance. In recent reports its been shown that over 80% of Australian’s have chosen salt water with their fibreglass pools and it has also been the most popular choice with America and Canada with very little negative feedback.
Salt water pools are increasingly more popular
In conclusion, the traditional chlorine pool has been around for a lot longer than a salt water pool but it is no surprise as to why more Australian’s are choosing Salt Water over Chlorine. Salt Water requires less maintenance, is much more gentle on the skin, the water feels softer and cleaner, it has no nasty chemical smell, and it allows you to open your eyes under water. Barrier Reef Pools have been helping homeowners across Australia transform their backyards with top quality fibreglass pools. We have over 30 years of experience in the swimming pool industry and have extensive knowledge when it comes to pools salt water and chlorine pools. We are always happy to assist and answer your questions in anyway we can, feel free to give us a call today!
