Thinking about installing a pool in your backyard? Nothing makes the long, hot Tucson summers more palatable than diving into cool water. Saltwater tends to be a gentler alternative to chlorine pools, but both have their specific advantages and drawbacks. Ultimately, both are great options for your backyard. Here’s how to decide between saltwater vs. chlorine pools in Tucson, AZ.
The difference between chlorine and saltwater
The main difference between saltwater and chlorine pools is how they generate chlorine. Chlorine pools have to be balanced with chlorine tablets or liquid, and must be constantly sampled to ensure that they have the appropriate alkalinity, pH and hardness balances.
On the other hand, saltwater pools create their own chlorine through electrolysis. Saltwater pools use a chlorine generator that runs the saltwater through electrically charged plates, which converts it to chlorine. The difference is that you don’t get the same smell (or physical feeling) that is usually associated with chlorine pools. However, it’s still just as sanitary and safe as chlorinated water.
Which should you pick?
If you’re not sure which system is right for you, here are some pros and cons of chlorine and saltwater pools in Tucson, AZ to consider:
- Saltwater is cheaper: Generally, the entire summer supply of salt for your saltwater pool should cost $20 to $30, whereas a chlorine summer supply could run as much as $180. If you’re on a budget (and don’t already have a chlorine pool), saltwater is a much more cost-effective solution.
- Saltwater is gentler: You’ve probably gotten out of a chlorine pool with irritated eyes and skin before. It doesn’t have to be that way—you can enjoy the lighter effects on your eyes, skin, hair, swimsuits and more if you switch to a chlorine pool.
- Some people like the smell of chlorine: It sounds weird, but some people really do like the smell of chlorine pools and associate it with cleanliness. If that’s you, that’s a valid item in the “pro” column.
- Salt erodes the pool faster: Saltwater does erode your pool plaster a little more quickly than chlorine, so you could see yourself resurfacing more often than you’d like.
- Cold saltwater won’t produce chlorine: If your pool water is under 60 degrees Fahrenheit, it won’t be able to produce chlorine through the generators. Luckily, Tucson is fairly warm year-round, but it’s something to keep in mind.
- Chlorine is irritating: Chlorine can be very irritating to people with allergies and sensitivities. A saltwater pool is a great option to stay sanitized, but still allow sensitive folks to swim.
- Saltwater chlorine generators need more maintenance: Finally, your saltwater chlorine generator needs a little more maintenance than regular chlorine pool items. If that’s a concern, you might want to opt for a traditional chlorine pool.
No matter which type of pool you choose, you can enjoy many happy, warm summer days in your backyard. For more information about the pros and cons of saltwater and chlorine pools in Tucson, AZ, call Arizona Pool & Pond Company today.