Thinking About Getting A Salt Water Generator For Your Pool?

If you own an inground pool or you’re thinking about getting one, you may be wrestling with the decision of whether to go with a salt water pool system or a chlorine pool system.

Would you be surprised if we told you that a salt water pool basically is a chlorine pool? Well, it is! A salt water generator actually converts the salt into chlorine. The upside of all of this is that the chlorine level is much lower in salt water pools, which in the long run is better for both your skin and even for your swimsuit!

 How Much Will A Salt Water Pool System Cost?

A lot of people have concerns about the difference in price between a salt water pool system vs chlorine, the traditional system used for decades for home pools. While salt water generators do have a higher upfront cost, typically around $1,000 more than chlorine, over the cost of a typical season, you can expect to pay around $200 less in chemicals — therefore the system should more than pay for itself in five years or less.

Another consideration is that salt water pool systems have a part called a cell that needs to be replaced around the five year mark, in the long run, the cost of the chemicals offsets the increased cost of the system itself, and the cost of ownership is typically about the same amount between the two systems.

 Will the Salt Water Pool System Affect My Pool Shell and Pool Equipment?

A salt water pool system will have no impact on a fiberglass pool’s longevity. For the typical concrete pool, you can expect to have to resurface your pool sooner than you might expect with concrete – but remember, resurfacing itself, is generally inevitable with a concrete pool. As far as the pool equipment is concerned, simply be certain to keep salt and chlorine levels within the suggested ranges and you should see no further wear, tear or damage to your pool equipment with salt vs chlorine.

Is A Salt Water Pool System Hard to Maintain?

Some people think so, but in reality, salt water pool systems are actually easier to maintain than a traditional chlorine one. If low maintenance is one of your goals then salt water pool system is likely the best choice for you.

Unlike chlorine systems, the water in salt water pools tends to stay clear even after short periods of neglect. However, if neglected, the chlorine levels of salt pools can easily creep up to corrosive levels without any telltale signs, so be sure to test your salt water pool system water on a weekly basis and make adjustments to the as necessary. A Simple weekly check up will keep your pool and its components in great shape for years to come!

If you’re still debating the merits of a salt water pool system vs chlorine, call our office. We will be happy to discuss the pros and cons of both methods and help you make a decision that is right for you.