Why Salt Might Be the Perfect Choice for Your Pool: Dive into the Benefits of Saltwater Pools!

If you’ve ever thought about changing your pool to a saltwater system, or you’re curious about how they work, you’re in the right place! Many pool owners are making the switch to saltwater pools, and for a good reason. Saltwater pools are easy to maintain, gentler on the skin, and still give you that refreshing, clean feeling every time you dive in.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about salt for swimming pools and why it might be a great choice for you!

What is a Saltwater Pool?

A saltwater pool is a pool that uses salt and a salt chlorine generator to keep the water clean and safe for swimming. In a saltwater pool, instead of adding chlorine directly to the water, salt is added, and the salt chlorine generator converts this salt into chlorine as needed. This means you don’t have to handle or store chlorine, which makes things a bit easier.

Don’t worry—it’s not like swimming in the ocean! The amount of salt in a saltwater pool is much lower than in seawater, so the water doesn’t taste or feel super salty. Instead, it’s more like the amount of salt you might find in a tear, so it’s gentle on your skin and eyes.

How Does Salt Keep a Pool Clean?

Keeping a pool clean means making sure that bacteria, algae, and other germs don’t grow in the water. In a regular pool, chlorine is added to kill germs and keep the water safe. In a saltwater pool, salt and a salt chlorine generator work together to create chlorine on their own.

Here’s how it works:

1. Adding Salt: We add a specific amount of salt to your pool water. This isn’t table salt like you’d put on your food, but a special type of pool-grade salt.

2. The Salt Chlorine Generator: The saltwater passes through a special machine called a salt chlorine generator. This generator uses a process called electrolysis to turn the salt into chlorine.

3. Chlorine Production: As the saltwater moves through the generator, it produces chlorine to keep the pool clean. The chlorine kills any germs in the pool and then changes back into salt, starting the cycle all over again.

   
   

Because the generator keeps producing chlorine as needed, you won’t have to add chlorine by hand as often. It’s a self-renewing system, which makes maintenance much easier!

The Benefits of Saltwater Pools

Now that we know how saltwater pools work, let’s look at some of the benefits. Saltwater pools have become very popular, and here’s why:

1. Gentler on Skin and EyesOne of the biggest reasons people love saltwater pools is because they’re easier on the skin and eyes. Have you ever had red, irritated eyes or dry skin after swimming in a regular chlorine pool? That’s because chlorine can sometimes be harsh on our bodies. Saltwater pools have lower chlorine levels and don’t have the same chemical smell, so you’re less likely to experience irritation. Many people find that swimming in a saltwater pool feels softer and smoother on their skin.

2. Softer Water FeelingSaltwater pools feel different from traditional chlorine pools. The water has a softer, silkier feel that many swimmers find more comfortable. This can make your swimming experience feel more like a spa, which is great if you love relaxing in the water.

3. Lower Maintenance CostsAlthough saltwater systems can cost more initially (since you need to buy and install the salt chlorine generator), they often save you money in the long run. This is because you’ll spend less on buying, storing, and handling chlorine chemicals. Plus, the system’s ability to self-regulate means less day-to-day maintenance for you.

4. More Stable Chlorine LevelsIn a traditional pool, chlorine levels can fluctuate. You might have to check the levels often and add more chlorine or adjust the balance. Saltwater pools, however, keep a more consistent chlorine level, thanks to the generator. This consistency means you won’t have to worry as much about the water getting out of balance, which can help prevent algae and cloudy water.

5. Less Chemical SmellOne major benefit of a saltwater pool is that you won’t get that strong chlorine smell! When chlorine is added directly to the pool, it can create a chemical odor that some people find unpleasant. In a saltwater pool, the chlorine is generated more gradually, so there’s usually no overpowering smell.

   
   

Common Questions About Saltwater Pools

Here are answers to some questions pool owners often have about saltwater pools:

• Will my pool taste salty?Not really! Saltwater pools only have a small amount of salt compared to the ocean. You probably won’t taste it at all, or if you do, it’ll just be a slight hint of saltiness. Think of it as a gentle salt taste, not like a mouthful of ocean water.

• Does a saltwater pool require salt every week?Not usually. Once the initial salt is added, you may only need to add a little more over time due to rain, splash-out, or if you need to refill your pool. But overall, the salt stays in the water and recycles back after creating chlorine, so it doesn’t need to be added regularly.

• Are saltwater pools more expensive?Initially, yes, because the salt chlorine generator costs more than traditional chlorine equipment. However, since you won’t need to buy as many chemicals, and the maintenance can be easier, you might actually save money in the long run.

Maintaining a Saltwater Pool

Saltwater pools are easier to maintain, but that doesn’t mean they’re maintenance-free. Here are a few things we'll need to do when we provide maintenance to a saltwater pool:

• Check Salt Levels: Every once in a while, it’s good to check the salt levels to make sure they’re within the recommended range.

• Inspect the Salt Chlorine Generator: The generator needs occasional cleaning to keep it working properly, but it’s usually an easy process.

• Test the Water Balance: Just like any pool, you’ll want to test the pH, alkalinity, and calcium levels to make sure everything stays balanced. The chlorine level will likely stay steady, but other levels can still change.

At Infinity Pool Solutions, we’re here to help you with any maintenance questions or services you need. Our team can keep your pool in great shape so you can spend more time enjoying it!

Is a Saltwater Pool Right for You?

Switching to a saltwater pool can be a great decision, especially if you’re looking for lower maintenance, softer water, and a gentler swimming experience. However, it’s important to remember that the initial cost of a salt system can be higher, so it’s worth thinking about your long-term goals and budget.

Whether you’re ready to make the switch or just want to learn more, our team at Infinity Pool Solutions is here to help. We can walk you through the benefits, answer any questions, and handle the installation, so you’ll have a pool that’s perfectly suited to you.

Ready to Dive In? Contact Us Today!

Saltwater pools are a fantastic option for many pool owners, and we’re thrilled to help more people enjoy them. If you’re ready to upgrade your pool to a saltwater system or just want to learn more, contact us today! Our team is here to make sure your pool is everything you’ve dreamed of, so you can dive in, relax, and enjoy your backyard paradise.