Best Healthy Reasons for a Saltwater Pool
Why are more people turning to saltwater pools than ever before? What’s the big deal for converting their summer oasis’ to saltwater? Is it just the latest craze?
Most people are resistant to change. Why anyone would choose to change how they do things. It seemed a bit drastic to us. If it is a trend, it begged the question, will they be switching back next year?
So, we did the research for you.
There are many reasons why saltwater pools are becoming so popular, and why those making the switch won’t be going back to the chlorinated alternative anytime soon. Saltwater pools are softer and much less harsh on your skin, eyes, hair, and clothes. The chemicals needed to maintain the crystal-clear water are less which impacts the budget. Not to mention that the maintenance is easier than traditional chlorinated pools.
It’s easy to convert a chlorine pool to a saltwater pool by simply adding a saltwater chlorinator and salt. The chlorinator will do all the work of making chlorine for you. Since salt doesn’t evaporate, you don’t have to regularly add salt to your water as you do chlorine.
While all pools require chemicals to maintain clean, clear water, saltwater pools are more stable than traditional chlorinated pools, so they require fewer chemicals.
How we choose (the best products)
We have researched for you and listed here what you’ll need to open, convert and maintain a saltwater pool. The first thing to note is, hands down, the Clorox line of products for pool maintenance is by far the users favorite. There appears to be no real competition out there. Additionally, the price value is better.
What you’ll need for the best healthy reason for converting to a saltwater pool: A saltwater chlorinator, pool salt, multi-use smart test strips, alkalinity increaser, calcium harness increaser, pH up, pH down, shock, and chemicals needed to close a pool for winter.
Product #1 (Above Ground Pools)
INTEX Krystal Clear Saltwater System with E.C.O. for Above Ground Pools up to 15,000 Gallons
Why we love it: You can’t beat the price! It’s easy to install and use, it has great suction power, and it’s accurate.
What you should know: Add your salt according to manufacturer’s specifications, allow your pump to circulate for 12 – 24 hours before starting your Krystal, then check the salt levels and adjust accordingly. Since the sun can dissipate chlorine, it is best to run your Saltwater System at night for the most efficiency.
Product #1 (Inground Pools)
Blue Works Saltwater Generator Chlorinator BLH30
What turned us on about this: It’s easy to install, comes with a 2-year warranty, the value for the money, and its accuracy.
Important information: This company has fabulous customer service and support!
Product #2
EasyGoProducts Morton Pool Salt – High Purity & Fast Dissolving Chlorine Generator
What turned us on about this: Fast Dissolving says it all! This product dissolves in less than 3 minutes. The packaging is easy to carry, open and pour. It doesn’t clump up inside the chlorinator.
Important information: There are less expensive options, but they take longer to dissolve, and you may be pulling your chlorinator apart to remove the build-up from other salts.
Product #3
Clorox Pool & Spa My Pool Care Assistant Test Strips
What turned us on about this: Easy to use, easy to read, works with smartphones, is instant, accurate with customized test results, and step-by-step treatment instructions. Great value for the money.
Important information: Just dip at elbow’s depth and one test strip checks full chemistry 6 ways for you. Download the free Clorox Pool App and scan your test strip to receive expert water analysis results. It also keeps a history record for you.
Product #4
Clorox Pool & Spa Shock XtraBLUE 6 in 1 Formula
What turned us on about this: Easy to use, great value for the money, improves filter performance, fights all types of algae, the longevity, dissolves when it hits the water.
Important information: This product does not have to be dissolved in a bucket before broadcasting.
Product #5
Clorox Pool & Spa Alkalinity Increaser
What turned us on about this: Protects equipment, easy to use, great value for the money, resealable bag, and manageable size.
Important information: This works faster and better than similar products.
Product #6
Clorox Pool & Spa Calcium Hardness Increaser, 4 lb
What turned us on about this: Increases water hardness preventing the staining or etching of your pool’s surface, and great value for the money.
Important information: Has a 4.8 out of 5 star rating
Product #7
Clorox Pool & Spa pH Up
What turned us on about this: Easy to use, resealable pack, guards against corrosion, works quickly, and great value for the money.
Important information: Clorox products for pools has got it down! They far surpass any other company for pool maintenance in customer satisfaction.
Product #8
Clorox Pool & Spa pH Down
What turned us on about this: Easy to use, resealable pack, protects from scale, easier and safer than muriatic acid, easy pour, no splash application, works quickly, and great value for the money.
Important information: In all our research, there is no other company that compares to the product satisfaction of Clorox for pool chemicals.
Product #9
Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner, Automatic Pool Vacuum, 60-90 Minutes, Rechargeable Battery
What turned us on about this: Easy to assemble, easy to clean, easy to use, great suction power, cordless, rechargeable, great price, automatic, has a floating handle, safe for all pools.
Important information: This company is undergoing a brand change. Although the brand name may be different, the product is still the same with the same quality.
Product #10
In The Swim Pool Closing Kit – Up to 15,000 Gallon pools
What turned us on about this: Easy to use and understand, saves time and money, non-chlorine so won’t damage your pool through the winter, , and great value for the money.
Important information: Everything you need is premeasured for you. Double or triple your order based on your size pool. If your pool size is in between, it is suggested to go up.
For years, chlorine pools have been the way to go. Many haven’t had the time, money, nor space to buy and store stockpiles of chemicals to maintain a pool. However, if you wanted to swim at home, it was a necessity.
Chlorine is harsh on the skin, eyes, hair, clothes, not to mention the pool structures themselves.
With the advancement in saltwater chlorine generators, it is easier than ever to own and maintain a safe alternative to chlorine pools by converting your chlorinated pool to the softer, gentler, less expensive saltwater pool your whole family can enjoy for years to come.
Q&A to Help:
Which chemicals do you need to open a saltwater pool? All you need is a saltwater chlorine generator and enough pool salt to raise the level to the salt system manufacturer’s recommendation.
Should I add chemicals as soon as the pool is open? Run the filter for 12 to 24 hours before adding any chemicals.
Do saltwater pools use any chemicals? Yes, in order to maintain proper pH balance. However, it is less than traditional chlorinated pools.
Do you shock a saltwater pool? Yes, it is important to shock your saltwater pool to keep algae at bay and maintain a cleaner pool. You should shock your pool on the same day each week for the highest benefits. Additional shock may be needed after heavy use or a big storm with an uncovered pool. Plan on one pound of shock per 10,000 gallons of water. If your pool is cloudy or developing algae, additional shock should be used until your pool no longer has a green hue to it.
What should you NOT to do with a saltwater pool? Not regularly test and allow your pH levels to go out of balance. In a saltwater pool the pH will run on the high side since the saltwater generator naturally raises your pH as the system runs. High pH levels above 7.6 can lead to skin irritation, burning eyes, and cause scaling on your pool equipment.
Do you add chlorine to a saltwater pool? No. Unlike a traditional chlorinated pool, a saltwater pool uses a chlorine generator to produce a more natural chlorine. Additional chlorine is unnecessary and can actually be harmful.
How soon can you swim after adding salt to a pool? It is always recommended to wait at least 20 to 45 minutes.
Do you need to shower after swimming in a saltwater pool? The most important part is to at least rinse off. No scrubbing is necessary, simple soap and water are just fine. Since there is less than 10 times the amount of salt in a saltwater pool as in the ocean, the level of salt on your clothes and body are equally lower.
Do you need stabilizer in a saltwater pool? Since saltwater pools don’t have the chemical chlorine, a stabilizer isn’t required.
Is salt water bad for pool pumps? It is common to have to replace a pool’s pump every few years, but it can be more frequent with saltwater swimming pool pumps. The salt content can cause build up on the pump and its filter, causing it to jam up or stop working altogether. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance, as with anything, can help prolong the life or your equipment.
Is a saltwater pool healthier than chlorine? Since a saltwater pool is still producing chlorine through the saltwater generator. They are no healthier or safer than chlorinated pools. The chlorine in both kills bacteria, which keeps the swimmers safe. The benefit of the saltwater is it less harsh on your body and clothes.
How often should I run my pump? Plan on running your pool pump 24/7, including those times you’re away on vacation, for as much of the year as the pool is in operation to keep the pool at its best.
What type of shock is best for saltwater pools? A dichlor shock or a non-chlorine shock should be used once a week.
How do I make my saltwater pool crystal clear? Remove excess calcium using a calcium reducer. Brush and vacuum the pool regularly to remove algae growth. Maintain a chlorine level between 3-4 PPM. Use a pool clarifier or flocculant as specified by the manufacturer.
How many bags of salt do I need for a saltwater pool? If you’re converting to saltwater for the first time, you’ll need about six or seven 40-pound bags of salt per 10,000 gallons. If your salt levels are around 1000 PPM to start, you’ll only need about four or five 40-pound bags.
Do saltwater pools need muriatic acid? Yes, because it helps balance pH levels when they have reached levels that are too high. The proper pH level ranges from 7.2 – 7.8.
How often do you check chemicals in a saltwater pool? Once a week to maintain proper pH levels and ensure your pool is properly sanitized.
How often do you add salt to a saltwater pool? Salt doesn’t evaporate or break down, so you only have to add more when the pool water gets lowered, due to dilution, a large pool party or large amounts of rain.
What order do you add chemicals to a saltwater pool? Alkalinity increaser, pH increaser/decreaser, stabilizer, calcium, algaecides, clarifiers, phosphate remover, lastly salt.
What is the golden rule of chemicals? NEVER add water to chemicals, add the chemicals to the water.
Although both types of pools require regular testing and maintenance, a saltwater pool requires less harsh chemicals, is easier and gentler to the body and clothing than pools requiring the addition of chlorine to the water. Allowing a saltwater generator to produce the necessary chlorine to keep bacteria and algae from forming is a simpler way, it is also more economical in the long run with less costly chemicals needed. Less space is required for storing harsh chemicals away from children and pets. It’s easier to keep your pool clean and balanced, with simple weekly testing and maintenance, for the health of your family. Enjoy your pool season!
Thanks for sharing the list of recommended products. I especially like the FAQ section.
I’d like to add that it’s crucial to select a chlorine generator that meets your pool’s specific needs. Some of the factors to consider when looking for the perfect salt chlorine generator for your pool include chlorine output, maintenance requirements, warranty, and, of course, customer reviews. This way, you can make an informed decision that ensures clean and sparkling water for your swimming enjoyment.