Chlorine Tablets & Shock
Please welcome our first challenger ~ Chlorine! This heavyweight contender has been a favorite of pool operators and pool owners for 50 years.
Whether in granular, liquid or tablet form you cant deny its sanitizing power. Chlorine can be used to shock a pool to remove bacteria.
Chlorine tablets are stabilized to protect the chlorine from the sun. You would need to add cyanuric acid to get this result in a saline pool. Adding chlorine to your pool is as easy as using a floating dispenser or pump.
Chlorine users need to stay on top of their water testing as the pH can vary quite a bit. Heavy bather loads and weather can wreak havoc on a pool. Chlorine shock can provide a much faster solution to your problem. Lets recap with some pros and cons of our first contender:
Feeling The Physical Benefits Of Salt Pools
Because salt splits up and creates chlorine, it can maintain the pool at a lower chlorine level. The lowered chlorine level helps individuals with chlorine allergies to enjoy the pool without getting sick due to the adjusted chlorine levels. Also, a properly maintained salt water pool feels softer on the skin than a traditionally chlorinated pool, so those who have sensitive skin will not experience the same discomfort in a salt pool that they would in a traditionally chlorinated pool. Salt pools will not leave swimmers with the itchy skin, red eyes, and discolored hair that many of us are used to associating with chlorinated pools, so having a salt pool means that swimming will simply feel better.
Salt pools will not leave swimmers with the itchy skin, red eyes, and discolored hair that many of us are used to associating with chlorinated pools.
Pool Sterilization: Chlorine Or Salt
Pierfrancesco FagianiPool Specialist Consultant
Even this topic is part of the common questions of our public: for the pool, better salt or chlorine sterilization?
In this article I will do a simple and concise treatment. We will then be able to deepen the subject during our meeting here in the company.
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A Salt Pool Is A Chlorine Pool
A salt water pool isnt better than a chlorine pool because it IS a chlorine pool. A saltwater pool system is the same thing as a salt chlorine generator/salt water chlorinator. Saltwater pools electrically convert pool salt into chlorine. Its the chlorine that keeps pool water clean, just like the chlorine you buy in buckets.
Pros And Cons Of Salt Water Treatment
In order to have a comprehensive understanding of the salt vs chlorine pool debate, its helpful to flesh out the pros and cons of salt water treatment in addition to the pros and cons of chlorine water treatment.
The pros of salt water treatment are:
- Though they carry chlorine, salt water hot tubs and pools are gentler on the eyes, scalp, and skin.
- It fosters buoyancy, which can be very beneficial in the overall relaxation experience of the hot tub.
- Salt water does not produce an unpleasant odor.
The cons of salt water treatment are:
- Salt water hot tubs are expensive. Moreover, salt water replacements are more expensive than chlorine-based systems.
- Salt water systems require specific maintenance that can otherwise easily create an unsanitary environment. For example, when the water temperature falls below 60 degrees F, the system has a difficult time producing adequate chlorine. Therefore, bacteria is more likely to form.
- Salt is a catalyst for rust and corrosion. Thus, its likely to damage your hot tubs and pools.
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Is It Better For You
Absolutely. The biggest advantage of a saltwater pool is that it reduces your chlorine exposure. First of all, this prevents the “chlorine hair” phenomenon that serious swimmers know only too well, as well as reducing eye irritation. For young swimmers, this can be really important, as that eye irritation can make them unwilling to put their head under water and learn to swim properly. It’s also better for your swimsuit. Too much chlorine exposure may also increase your risk of cancer. So, yes, a saltwater pool is much better for you.
How To Determine Which System Is The Best For You
When it comes to these systems, the opinions are divided. While some users praise the convenience and comfort of a saltwater system, others see it as an expensive means of chlorination that isnt always as effective as it promises to be. It can be said that it is more a matter of personal taste. Nevertheless, if you need to make a realistic assessment, heres what you need to consider:
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History Of Pools And Hot Tubs
Pools have been around for centuries. Throughout their existence, they have continuously evolved, using multiple treatment methods for maintenance and safety. For example, over the last 100 years, pools have been treated with the following:
- Chlorine The first chemical invented for pool treatments in the early 1900s.
- Ozone Originally used to disinfect drinking water, Ozone was eventually used by Europe and the U.S. in the 60s and 70s to clean pool water.
- UV UV rays destroy bacteria and viruses by attacking their genetic core DNA.
- Saltwater With roots from Australia, this is a simple treatment method that entails using salt to produce chlorine.
- Direct Hydroxyl Injection A recent and modern method that involves injecting hydroxyl radicals to sanitize water.
Hot tubs have also been around for centuries. It all began with the birth and popularity of hot springs and bathing chambers.
Providing hydrotherapy, soaking in hot springs was common among hunters and gatherers who often spent their days doing strenuous physical activities. Later in history, with Japans hot springs and the ancient Romans public and private baths , the concept of hot baths was a widely favored activity across cultures.
Will The Salt Rust Your Pool
There is, yes, some risk that the salt in the water will corrode your pool or pool elements. For above ground pools, you should not use a saltwater system with a steel or aluminum pool, as it will destroy the pool. A resin pool, however, should be fine. Vinyl pool liners are also good at resisting damage from salt. If you do use a saltwater system with an above ground pool, you should check and, if necessary, replace metal components regularly.
One vital way of reducing corrosion and rust damage is a sacrificial anode. This is a zinc part that hangs out next to the parts you need to protect and takes the damage for them. You replace the anode about every three years or so. Bear in mind that the anode has to be properly bonded and grounded, and thus you will need a licensed electrician to install it.
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Which Is The Better Option For Your Inground Pool
In the end, saltwater pools have a higher initial cost but are cheaper, more convenient to maintain and have fewer chemicals than chlorine pools. So saltwater pools win 3 to 1.
Coogans Design-Build typically recommends saltwater pools but we can also build chlorine-based pools. Contact us today for a free consultation to see which type of inground pool is best for you!
Will Adding A Salt System Void The Warranty
Potentially, yes. Some manufacturers exclude the use of a salt system because if you mess up, you can seriously corrode your pool. Obviously, if your pool is out of warranty this is not a concern. It doesn’t mean that a salt system isn’t compatible with your pool, as long as it’s not primarily of metal construction.
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Best For Keeping Your Pool Clean
Swimming pools are beautiful, innovative additions to your yard. They can enhance your backyard and even include waterfalls for additional peaceful and soothing qualities. But whatever type, size, and shape of pool you include, one thing remains the same you need to keep it clean. Any amount of standing water even water being used in an infinity pool is going to eventually grow algae and bacteria if not properly treated. Chlorine is the probably the most well known treatment for most pools, but is it right for your yard. Make sure by comparing it to other methods first.
Saltwater Pools Come With Health And Environmental Concerns
Human skin absorbs sodium, salt, and chlorine from a saltwater pool. Providers have linked numerous health concerns to sodium being absorbed through the skin.
Providers have also linked higher heart mortality risks to sodium absorption through the skin, particularly among people with:
- High blood pressure
- Circulatory issues
- History of stroke
Pets can also get sick from drinking saltwater and concerns that saltwater systems damage the environment have even led to Ban the Brine movements.
These movements have resulted in the banning of saltwater pools in some areas, including Los Angeles County in California.
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Salt Water Pool Vs Chlorine Pool: An Honest Comparison
Anybody thats owned a pool knows that it can be difficult to choose between a salt water pool or a chlorine pool. There are pros and cons to each, and while either will do on a hot summer day, filling your own pool for the season requires that you make a decision. So which is the right way to go? That depends entirely on your preferences and values as a pool owner. Heres a rundown of what each option has to offer.
Pros And Cons Of Chlorine Water Treatment
Chlorine is preferable over other treatment options for a variety of reasons:
- It is more affordable and cost effective.
- Chlorine hot tubs require less upkeep and last longer than salt water hot tubs.
- Chlorine achieves the cleanliness and oxidation levels that other chemicals and methods do not.
- Chlorine does not cause any damage to the features of hot tubs and pools.
Some cons of chlorine are:
- People with sensitivities to chlorine can experience irritation to their skin, scalp, and eyes upon exposure to a chlorine pool or hot tub.
- If there are large amounts of chlorine gas hovering over your hot tub or pool, it can be harmful for your lungs.
- Chlorine carries a very distinctive smell that some people find unpleasant.
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Advantages And Disadvantages Of A Saltwater Pool
One of the biggest advantages of designing a custom home in Florida is the opportunity to design a luxury pool. Gone are the days of having to stick to the simple, rectangular pool. When you work with custom home builders in Clearwater, you can design the shape and style of the pool to meet your preferences, as well as choose saltwater or chlorine.
Saltwater pools are a new trend that are becoming more and more popular with custom homebuyers, and weve put together a few advantages and disadvantages to help you make your decision.
Saltwater Pools Are Gentler On Your Body And Clothing
Saltwater pools are gentler than traditional chlorine pools. If youve ever spent time in a traditionally chlorinated pool, youve probably experienced the red and irritated eyes that often come along with the fun. Traditional chlorine pools also add some major wear and tear on your swimsuits. In contrast, saltwater pools are gentler on the eyes, hair, and clothing.
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Salt Vs Chlorine For Pools: Which One Is Better
2021-03-23
Salt vs chlorine pool has been a long discussed matter, concerning which one is better and healthier for the human body as they are disinfectants. Today, the classical method of pool disinfection is carried out with various chemicals. However, the harm of these chemicals to human health and the environment is widely known.
Koyuncu Salt, Turkeys largest salt importer, produces a great variety of salt products. includinghigh purity and quality pool salt. Therefore, salt vs chlorine pool is a topic also related to our company.
Chlorine And Salt Levels
It is a common misconception that saltwater systems do not have . In fact, these systems are currently the most popular of the chlorine systems. A saltwater pool will have lower levels of chlorine than a traditional chlorine pool because the chlorine is produced at a steady level rather than added to the pool with chlorine sticks or tablets. Salt is added to the pool instead, and a saltwater generator produces hypochlorous acid for sanitation through electrolysis, which is the breakdown of the salt by passing electricity through the saltwater solution.
Despite the name of a saltwater pool, the salt content is approximately that of human tears, about one-tenth the salinity of ocean water. Swimmers can open their eyes underwater, and their skin feels softer after a swim.
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Pools: Skip The Saltwater And Stick With Chlorine
Lets talk about pools! Have you been tempted to convert your chlorine pool to a saltwater pool? You might want to hold off.
We promise there is someone else reading this article right now who has already made the conversion and is considering converting back to a traditional chlorine system. Heres why.
Theres a lot of buzz out there right now about how saltwater pools are better than chlorine pools, but that isnt necessarily the case.
Although saltwater pools are touted to be easier on your eyes and skin, they come with a whole host of other issues you need to consider before committing to a saltwater system.
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Is There A Better Choice
Theres no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to picking between a traditional chlorine and saltwater pool. Saltwater pools require less maintenance and dont have as many chemicals in the water, but chlorine pools tend to be more cost-effective and convenient. Ultimately, youve just got to weigh the pros and cons of each and determine which is the better choice for your circumstances.
Questions? Shoot us a message and well be happy to help.
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For Above Ground Pools
For above-ground pools, saltwater and freshwater chlorine systems are tied. The choice depends on your budget and any concerns you have around using higher concentrations of chlorine. Above-ground pools cost between $800 and $4,700, with chlorine systems on the lower end and above-ground pools on the higher end.
If your skin is sensitive to chlorine or you dont want to worry about safe chemical storage, opt for a saltwater system. If you are working with a tight budget, then chlorine may be the right choice for you.
Is A Saltwater Pool Easier To Maintain
YES! Theres no need to purchase, store and add chlorine to your pool. Simply add salt and maintain your levels and let the chlorinator do the rest.
Saltwater Pools are far more stable than chlorine pools. It requires less maintenance and fewer chemical testing and adding tasks . And of course less last-minute trips to the store to buy those chemicals if you run out.
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Salt Water Pool Vs Chlorine Pool: What’s The Difference In Terms Of Maintenance Cost And Practicality Find Out Here
Did you know that 10.4 million householdsin the US have pools in their backyards? Are you thinking of joining them?
If you’re considering installing a pool, you will have some choices to make, like whether you want a saltwater pool vs. a chlorine pool. To learn the differences in terms of maintenance, cost, and practicality, keep reading. We’ll break it all down for you.
Is It Worth Converting To Saltwater Pool
Saltwater pools are cheaper to maintain in the short term: Annual costs to maintain a saltwater pool tend to be lower than annual costs to maintain a traditional chlorine pool. Theres no chlorine smell: The strong chlorine smell thats often present in a chlorine pool will not be a problem in a salt pool.
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Chlorine Pool Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Chlorine is an effective sanitizer Using chlorine as a sanitizer is effective. A chlorine shock treatment will kill all of the bacteria and algae in your pool.
- Widely used Because most people have freshwater chlorine pools, you will find a lot more products for chlorine pools and receive more guidance when you need it.
- No electrical equipment needed You dont need any generators or electrical equipment, which makes a chlorine pool system a lower upfront cost.
Cons:
- More regular maintenance Chlorine pools require more maintenance time with the addition of chlorine pool shock treatments that make you wait before using your pool again.
- Chlorine irritating to eyes and skin Chlorine is already more irritating than salt, and it only becomes more irritating when you have too much chlorine in your pool.
- More expensive to maintain With a chlorine pool, you will have to put in more money to maintain your pool with chlorine shock treatments and chemicals.
Does Salt Mean Chlorine Free
One of the biggest misconceptions about salt water pools is that they are free of chlorine. Salt is unable to sanitize a pool as is sometimes believed. In fact, salt is converted to chlorine through electrolysis. The salt cell is used to produce hypochlorous acid and sodium hypochlorite , which are the sanitizing agents already commonly used in swimming pools. Therefore, a saltwater pool is not actually chlorine-free it simply utilizes a chlorine generator instead of direct addition of chlorine.
The good news is, there is an advantage to salt over straight chlorine. The cell that is used to generate the chlorine from the salt helps maintain a constant level of chlorine. If you are maintaining your own pool that does not have a salt system, or a chlorine injector, you are probably accustomed to dumping straight chlorine in your pool to get content levels to where you want them. With a salt system, the salt cell is constantly converting salt into chlorine at a relatively consistent rate. Furthermore, the salt generator means you no longer have to purchase chlorine, store it, or handle it.
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