Saltwater or Chlorine – Which Pool Type is Best?
Whether it’s an in-ground pool or an above-ground pool, backyard swimming pools offer the ultimate fun and are a refreshing way to beat the heat. Saltwater pools and chlorine pools are both splash-worthy, but they do have their differences.
Most people are familiar with chlorine pools. They’re typically the first type of pool that comes to mind when thinking about installing a backyard pool. But saltwater pools are gaining popularity. Both types are effective methods for sanitizing pool water — but which one is right for you?
For more information about above-ground pools, read How to Choose an Above-Ground Swimming Pool.
What’s a Saltwater Pool?
Saltwater pools are a wonderful option for people who want to enjoy a fun day of swimming with less skin and eye irritation. These pools produce water that feels softer to the touch. Contrary to popular belief, saltwater pools do contain chlorine, but the levels of it are lower and the way it’s introduced into the water is different than in a chlorine pool. Instead of using chlorine tablets or sticks, salt is added directly to the water and a salt chlorine generator (also known as a saltwater chlorinator) converts the salt into chlorine.
Like chlorine pools, saltwater pools require a filtration system, although it’s different from a traditional chlorine pool system. When shopping for a pool filter, be sure to look for one that’s compatible with a saltwater system.
Types of Salt to Use in a Saltwater Pool
Saltwater pool salt is a coarse-ground salt. When buying pool salt, opt for 99% pure sodium chloride to prevent damaging your pool equipment or staining the pool. Make sure your pool-grade salt grind is compatible with your chlorine generator, otherwise it won’t work properly. The amount of salt you add to your pool depends on your pool size.
For best results, use one of three types of salt:
- Solar
- Mined
- Mechanically evaporated
While the above types of salt are perfect for a saltwater pool, there are several types of salt that contain additives that you shouldn’t use: Epsom salt, Himalayan salt and rock salt.
Saltwater pools aren’t totally maintenance-free. You’ll need to test for pH and free chlorine weekly, skim to remove debris as much as possible and check the salt levels monthly.
When using salt in your pool, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the amount to add.
What’s a Chlorine Pool?
A chlorine pool requires you to add chlorine, in liquid or tablet form, to help fight bacteria, cloudy water and algae. You also have to balance the water more frequently than with a saltwater pool. Checking the water with a test kit or test strips will help you assess your water’s condition and let you know whether it’s time to add more chlorine.
Regularly maintaining and cleaning your pool will help keep it free from bacteria and algae. You’ll need to skim your chlorine pool to remove debris as needed, as well as shock the pool (the process of adding chlorine to the pool to raise the level) and test it weekly for pH and free chlorine. You should also add algaecide weekly to slow algae growth.
For tips on maintaining your pool, read Swimming Pool Maintenance.
To learn how to remove algae from your pool, read How to Get Rid of Pool Algae.
Pros and Cons of Saltwater Pools and Chlorine Pools
Pros of Saltwater Pools
- There’s less chlorine and less of the heavy chemical scent and content.
- They’re gentler on the skin, with less irritation to the eyes, hair and swimsuits.
- The water has a softer, silkier feel to it compared to chlorine water.
- They have lower maintenance costs than chlorine pools.
- There’s no need to store harmful chemicals.
Cons of Saltwater Pools
- They have a higher initial investment.
- You’ll need to adjust the chlorine levels on a weekly basis.
- Over time, the saltwater’s corrosive nature may damage the pool’s fixtures.
- Repairs to the chlorine generator are best left to a professional.
- The salt chlorine generators run on electricity, which may increase your energy bill during peak season.
Like a saltwater pool, chlorine pools also have pros and cons that should play a role in your decision-making process.
Pros of Chlorine Pools
- They have a lower initial investment.
- They’re easy to maintain.
- Chemicals won’t corrode the pool’s masonry, lining or accessories.
- Chlorine continues to protect the pool long after it’s poured into the water.
- They use less energy than saltwater pools.
- They’re less corrosive than saltwater pools.
Cons of Chlorine Pools
- The strong smell is unpleasant to some people.
- Chlorine can irritate the eyes, throat and nose as well as fade swimsuits.
- Heavy metals in the water, such as copper, can turn blonde hair green.
Use pool chemicals as directed by manufacturers. Follow all storage precautions and use protective equipment and clothing.
How to Convert a Chlorine Pool to a Saltwater Pool
If you’ve been considering converting your chlorine pool to a saltwater pool, it’s not as difficult as you may think, but you’ll need a salt chlorine generator.
Check the Pool’s Chemistry
- Chlorine
- Alkalinity
- pH levels
- Stabilizer
- Calcium hardness
- Heavy metals
Install the Salt Chlorine Generator
Select a salt chlorine generator based on your pool’s water capacity in gallons. Install the salt chlorine generator according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure to check for leaks.
Installing a salt chlorine generator involves working with electricity and water. Consult a professional for installation if you aren't familiar with the necessary safety protocols for working with electricity in wet environments.
Add the Salt
Add pool-grade salt to the pool. The amount of salt you add depends on the volume of water in your pool.
Check the Pool’s Chemistry Again
Once the salt is dissolved, check the pool’s chemistry again for pH, total alkalinity, chlorine, calcium hardness and salt. Crank up the generator and enjoy your saltwater pool.
Pool Maintenance Cost
Maintenance costs for saltwater and chlorine pools can vary depending on your location. It’s important to consider all factors when deciding between a saltwater or chlorine pool.
Saltwater Pool Maintenance
The cost of converting a pool to saltwater can vary greatly based on your pool setup, size and geographical location. In general, there's an average upfront cost of $2,000 to $3,000 for the materials (like a salt generator), plus the cost of the salt itself (which will depend on the size of your pool). But once the pool is converted, your yearly maintenance costs are likely to remain low because the pool won't need constant chemical balancing. Your yearly cost for saltwater pool maintenance will generally be $100 or less. You will need to add in saltwater cells to the pool every five to seven years. These cells cost anywhere from $200 to $800 dollars.
Chlorine Pool Maintenance
Chlorine pools have a lower upfront cost than saltwater pools, but they cost more to keep up annually. The pool chemicals you will need to maintain your chlorinated pool can cost thousands of dollars per year. This is dependent on how often you need to balance the chemicals in your pool, something you can use a testing kit to determine.