Salt System vs. Chlorine

A question that we often get asked is which is better, a salt system or a chlorine pool? The truth is that neither is better than the other because a salt system pool is a chlorine pool. People assume that salt water is better because of what they read or hear. But, in fact, both salt system pools and chlorine pools require the same levels for balancing the water and keeping the pool clean and safe.

• Both pool types require chlorine levels to stay in the 1.0 – 1.5 ppm level.

• Both salt system and chlorine pools require a pH of 7.2 – 7.6.

• And both pool types require an alkalinity ranging from 80 – 120.

Traditional chlorine tablets, along with weekly doses of algaecide, and pH balances effectively keep pools clean and sanitized. The main advantage of using a salt system is that the system itself is designed to accurately regulate chlorine levels. This is achieved because the system makes its own chlorine which helps cut back on the time pool owners spend purchasing chemicals then handling them and adding them to the water. The main downside of a salt system is the cost of the unit and maintenance. Another downside is that salt water continuously hangs around concrete or decking which ages it at a faster rate.

Most potential pool owners want a pool system that is simple to use and easy to maintain due to busy lifestyles. This is why salt systems are a dominant choice among today’s pool owners.

If you are interested in learning more about the pool systems offered at All America Pool, contact us today. We’d love to answer any questions you may have and get you in our schedule to bring you the pool of your dreams.

Please note: We highly recommend you seal concrete if you choose a salt system pool. This will prevent salt from penetrating the concrete and aging it. Please consult a concrete specialist to recommend the right sealer for a pool area.