A Comparison from Pool Maintenance Company in Dover, DE – Salt vs. Chlorine
With schools closed unexpectedly, family outings reduced to walks and backyard rumbles, and the fear of Coronavirus contact everywhere outside of your home, you’re probably eagerly awaiting the opening of your pool.
Start planning now for a pool-season that meets all of your family’s needs. As a pool maintenance company in Dover, DE, we encourage our customers to think about the method of sanitation they want to use in their pools before the season begins. In choosing the right method for your pool, there are a variety of factors to consider.
Here’s a quick comparison of two of the most popular methods for sanitizing your pool – salt vs. chlorine.
What do salt and chlorine pools have in common?
Both use chlorine for sanitation. Surprising, we know! Contrary to popular belief, saltwater pools actually do have chlorine in them. The difference lies in the source of the chlorine – chemical vs natural reaction (we’ll explain this later).
Also, both types of cleaning methods used by pool maintenance companies in Dover, achieve excellent sanitation results; however, that is generally where the similarities end.
What are the advantages of a chlorine pool?
Chemical chlorine has been around as the primary sanitation method for pools since the early 1900s. It quickly and efficiently kills bacteria, making it a good choice for those that want to do it themselves, but tend to err on the side of neglect. Chlorine pools can achieve cleanliness and sanitation more quickly after neglect has resulted in a pH imbalance.
Chlorine pools are easier on your fixtures, meaning light fixtures, pool liners, heaters, etc. will have a longer lifespan when using chlorine.
Chlorine pools generally don’t require complex operating systems, such as is the case for saltwater pools.
Your wallet will thank you for the initial difference in setup costs when choosing the chlorine route.
What are the disadvantages of a chlorine pool?
But, of course, as with everything, there are some cons.
Chlorine is harsh on the skin, eyes and hair. It can even cause harmful effects for those with asthma, allergies or other lung conditions.
While it may save at the initial setup, it can be more costly in the long run, especially if you would prefer to have a professional pool maintenance company in Dover, DE do the work. This is due to the fact that chlorine pools require more frequent maintenance. The pH balance is more easily disrupted and algae and bacteria will quickly start to grow.
Chlorine storage can be a bit of a pain, as it must be stored in a cool, dry and well ventilated area to keep components active.
What are the advantages of a salt pool?
Remember how we said that salt pools still have chlorine? Well, they do. However, it’s the natural occurring result of a process called electrolysis. As the water passes through a special system with a salt cell, an electric current shocks the water, producing the same sanitizing component that is found in chlorine.
This produces much softer, gentler water. Better for sensitive skin and eyes, saltwater pools are especially ideal for families with little kids. It also causes less fading on expensive swimwear and gear.
Saltwater pools require less attention and fewer chemicals for balancing the pool’s pH levels. This choice gets you much closer to a “set it and forget it” option. Which in turn, can decrease your seasonal maintenance bill, saving you money over the long run.
What are the disadvantages of a salt pool?
We’ve already made mention to the higher upfront cost. This is true in large part because of the special system needed to produce the electrolysis process. But it also can be attributed to the need for a professional to fix any issues with the pool system, as opposed to being able to figure it out on your own.
Salt pools are hard on your fixtures as the salt gradually deteriorates most surfaces. You’ll want to plan on replacing some of these items periodically with a saltwater pool.
In the end, the choice depends on the amount of use, who is using it and your budgeting and scheduling goals throughout the pool season.
But regardless of the method chosen, you can be sure you’ll get cool, clear water and plenty of summertime memories.
Questions about Pool Maintenance in Dover, DE?
Our goal is to help you have an enjoyable and stress-free pool season, whether you desire to do the maintenance yourself or hire out the work to a professional.
We’d be happy to answer any of your questions concerning saltwater vs chlorine pools, converting chlorine to saltwater, or determining your ideal weekly maintenance schedule.
Call us at 302-270-3700 today!
