Saltwater pools started to gain popularity in the early 1980s and are now almost as popular as their chlorine counterpart. Why? To state it simply they are healthier, less dangerous, and much easier to maintain.
Why Healthier?
Many have experienced being in a chlorine pool and having that annoying eye sting that results from getting the water in your eyes. Not to mention how dry and cracked your skin gets after drying off. With salt water pools your eyes will have significantly less irritation (if any at all) and your skin will actually feel softer than before you got in. But does it actually kill bacteria or other pathogens in the water? Absolutely. In fact, many people are unaware that the salt actually converts to chlorine through a process called electrolysis. The dissolved salt becomes hypochlorous acid which acts as a disinfectant.
Why less dangerous?
Chlorine by itself is very dangerous. It’s flammable, poisonous, and corrosive. If you happen to get chlorine tablets on your skin you may even get chemical burns. Even after it’s put in water and safe to swim in, it can still emit fumes that make it slightly harder to breath. Saltwater pools solve every one of those issues.
Why is it easier to maintain?
They practically maintain themselves after you put the salt in. Saltwater pools have an automated system and adjust salt and pH levels as needed. In contrast, chlorine pools need regular monitoring and self adjustment of pH.