Did you know that most residential pools now use saltwater systems instead of old school/traditional chlorine sanitation? Salt systems use a milder form of pure chlorine which can help with the red eyes, itchy skin, and green hair that you may remember so vividly prior to the 2000s.
Saltwater systems are fortunately much gentler on the skin. For anecdotal evidence, someone who has eczema and normally breaks out after swimming in heavily chlorinated pools, does not get the same reaction in a saltwater pool! Saltwater systems tend to not dry out hair as much compared to swimming in chlorinated pools, similar to how a water softener system works for your home. Some comparison on salt levels: Water Softeners approx. 50-80 ppm; Brackish water ranges from 1000-10,000 ppm; Fresh water is considered less than 1000 ppm; Average Seawater is 35,000 ppm; Saltwater Chlorine Generators 3000-4000 ppm. Even though one family may decide a saltwater system is the way to go, it is essential to understand both systems to make an informed decision for your family’s new pool.
Chlorine systems were first introduced in the 1910s. Before that, pools were cleaned using backwashing and various filtration systems. The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables, built in 1923, is a historic example that still operates today, being refilled daily by natural spring water. While beautiful and fun for family visits, modern advancements in pool sanitation offer more environmentally friendly options, much to the delight of the local manatees.
Chlorine keeps pools clean through chemical reactions (Oxidation) that break down organic material and harmful bacteria, essentially acting like bleach for your pool. Maintaining stable chlorine levels is crucial to prevent algae growth, which can turn your pool cloudy, yellow algae on walls and floors, or green cloudy water. Poor water chemistry can also void warranties on pool tiles, equipment, and interior finishes.
Chlorine in its pure natural state is gas. Chlorine has to be combined with other inert ingredients to make it into the solid chlorine tabs, liquid and granular forms that are used in traditional chlorine pools. So, as you are adding chlorine to your pool you are also adding other inert dissolved solids to your water.
In the 1980s, saltwater systems made their debut in the U.S., after gaining popularity in New Zealand. Today, over 90% of new residential pools use saltwater systems. It’s important to note that saltwater systems still use chlorine; they’re actually known as saltwater chlorination systems.
As your water is circulated through the “Salt Cell” these systems generate chlorine from added salt, Sodium Chloride, which is converted to sodium hypochlorite, which helps maintaining a consistent balance with lower chlorine levels. Regular water chemistry checks remain essential, just like with traditional chlorine pools.
For larger commercial pools, traditional chlorine systems are more common because Florida regulations require a backup chlorination system if a saltwater system is used, making it simpler to stick with chlorine from the start. Plus, would a lazy river feel the same without that distinct chlorine smell and hair crunch?
If you’re considering a new pool, the Oak Wells Aquatics design team will help you decide which system is right for you either way, once your decision is made and the pool is built, our Oak Wells Aquatics Start Up Specialist will visit your home to show you how to maintain proper water chemistry with your chosen system. We even encourage you to record the demonstration for future reference.