So, you are finally the happy owner of a beautiful swimming pool. You have just finished the maintenance or you’ve just built it up and you have just one more step to do. And what is it? Of course, fill it with water, so you and your family can enjoy the summer and still stay cool. But what type of water do you fill it with?
No matter what type of pool you had installed, you need to fill it with safe and sanitary water. The two basic water types you have to choose from are saltwater and chlorine water. Both options deter bacteria and other contaminants, but each type has its own advantages and drawbacks as well.
Atlantir team will show you the pros and cons of both options.
Chlorine
Right now, chlorine pools represent the most popular option. Most public pools and home pools use this type of water.
Pros
Chlorine pools don’t cost as much to install. While you do need to buy chlorine powder or tablets and other chemicals to control the amount of chlorine in your pool, these items don’t usually cost as much as a salt generator.
Another positive is that chlorine and other chemicals work especially well at keeping your pool water safe from harmful bacteria. This kind of pool also allows you to clean up messes quickly. If a child has an accident in the water, you can add a chlorine packet to solve the problem.
Cons
While the chlorine in the pool keeps your water clean, it can hurt swimmers. Many people suffer from red, irritated eyes after swimming, and their skin can dry out. Chlorine may also cause shortness of breath and inflame swimmers’ lungs.
Another disadvantage is that chlorine pools are hard to maintain. You have to clean the pool and replace the water more frequently because of the number of chemicals. The chlorine also causes problems outside the pool. Because you have to manually add chlorine, you need to be careful while you handle and store the packets.
Saltwater
Contrary to what some people may think, saltwater pools actually do have chlorine in them, though not as much as chlorine pools. A generator ionizes salt in the water to produce a continuous supply of chlorine
Pros
Because the continuous supply of chlorine eliminates algae growth, you only need to clean your pool about once or twice a year. The lack of heavy chemicals also makes it so you don’t need to replace the water as often.
Fewer heavy chemicals lead to fewer side effects. Your eyes and lungs are less likely to become irritated. The water feels softer and doesn’t dry you out, which makes this option especially good for sensitive skin.
Another benefit of saltwater pools is that they save you time because you don’t have to manually add chlorine. And because you don’t need chlorine packets, you don’t need to worry about safely storing and transporting chemicals to keep your pool clean.
Cons
On the other hand, saltwater can damage your pool. Too little salt (and thus chlorine) can make your salt generator and other pool equipment shut down, while too much salt can lead to corrosion. The salt can ruin the lighting, liners and other parts of the pool.
Additionally, the salt generator’s initial installation may cost a lot, and any repairs require help from professionals. The generator also needs to run all the time, which can take a toll on your electric bill. And you will need to replace the salt cells every few years-and this task can cost quite a bit as well.
No matter what type of pool water you have, you need to frequently test the pH readings to make sure the chlorine stays at a safe level.
For more information about what type of water will work best for you and your pool, talk with ATLANTIR – your local pool professionals.