Does My Salt Water Pool Require Any Chlorine?

The nature of a saltwater system is that it actually converts ordinary salt into chlorine. There may be an occasion that you might need to super chlorinate the pool or “shock” the water. Saltwater pools are a great option for those who are sensitive to chlorine. Chlorine generated pools, or “saltwater pools” have softer water and can be gentler on eyes, skin and hair.

The main difference in the pool types is the filtration system. Salt-water pools use a mix of salt and chlorine. Salt-water chlorinators turn the salt into liquid chlorine, so you don’t need to add as much solid chlorine. Mineral pools – on the other hand – use pool ionisers to seep mineral ions into the water. The salt, chlorine, and minerals all work by killing bacteria and discouraging algae growth. Minerals pools are thought to be more effective against algae.

Because mineral pools use far less chlorine, the walls and floors of your fibreglass or concrete swimming pool won’t need maintenance or resurfacing as regularly. The water in mineral pools feels more natural on your skin, and since there’s less chlorine (whether the chlorine is in solid or liquid form), it smells better and doesn’t dry out your skin as much. Mineral cartridge filters are cheaper to install than other chlorinators but need replacement every season, while a salt cell can last 4 to 5 years with frequent cleaning.

In a mineral pool, you don’t need to add chlorine, clarifiers, or algaecides to your pool, and you conserve both water and power, saving up to 12,000 litres of water annually. Your pool operating costs will drop up to 80%, and you’ll never need another pool testing kit. Salt-water pools convert salt to chlorine and back to salt on a continuous loop. Mineral pools take a few weeks to get the pH right after installation but don’t need much maintenance after that.

Basically, a chlorine pool uses … well … chlorine. Salt-water pools use some raw chlorine mixed with salt and convert the salt into liquid chlorine. So, you’re putting in less chlorine, but you’re still generating the same amount. Mineral pools use silver and copper ions, borates, magnesium chloride, plus a tiny amount of chlorine. The mineral water feels silky on your skin, offering more of a spa feel than a swimming pool one, and it costs less both in terms of installation, utilities, and maintenance. And they smell better too.