Everything you need to know about the chlorine tablet shortage.
Although most swimming pools you’ve probably taken a dip in are traditional builds that are based around chlorine, an increasing number of homeowners are choosing saltwater pools instead. These types of pools have gotten more attention this past year due to a chlorine tablet shortage.
Today, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about the situation and why saltwater pools may be your best choice.
The 2021 Chlorine Tablet Shortage Could Continue
Anyone who’s been paying attention to the news (or even just Facebook) understands we’ve been having supply chain issues since last year. This has caused shortages of many items and price increases of many others. One item that experienced a supply shortage was chlorine tablets. Unfortunately, we’re still seeing some of the same issues as last year, so some industry workers expect the chlorine tablet shortage to continue throughout much of this year.
Pros of Installing a Saltwater Swimming Pool
Saltwater systems have been increasing in popularity in recent years, but some people have become even more interested because they don’t use nearly as much chlorine. This means that the chlorine tablet shortage probably won’t come into play no matter how long it lasts. Aside from this, there are two primary advantages of installing a saltwater pool:
Lower Annual Costs
While a saltwater pool isn’t necessarily easier to maintain than one that uses chlorine tablets, the yearly cost of its operation will be lower. While prices vary, salt will typically cost you around $30 or so for the entire summer season, whereas chlorine can run you nearly $200 and possibly more during the same period. While the initial cost of a saltwater pool is higher (which we’ll get to below), the annual cost will help even things out.
Gentler on the Skin
Pool chemicals are a fact of life with a traditional chlorine pool, leading to irritation of the eyes and skin. However, although there is a small amount of chlorine in a saltwater pool, it’s much lower, which means that it’s gentler on your body. You also won’t have to deal with the heavy chemical smell that occurs with chlorine pools.
The Possible Future of Chlorine Tablet Shortage
It’s impossible to know for sure what the future holds, and things are changing all the time. The supply chain could go back to normal in just a couple of weeks or it could take several months or even a couple of years.
What we do know for certain is that there was a chlorine tablet shortage last year and many of the same issues seem to still be occurring. We hate to say that your guess is as good as ours, but this isn’t something we’ve traditionally had to deal with before.
Why You Should Choose a Saltwater Swimming Pool
Choosing between a traditional pool and a saltwater pool is likely to come down to personal choice, but as you can see, there are both advantages and disadvantages. If you’re afraid of a shortage occurring in the future, then saltwater will likely be your best choice. If you’re unsure, feel free to do your own research or ask a pool builder about the benefits of saltwater pools.
Contact Larsen’s Pool & Spa to Install a Saltwater Swimming Pool to Your Home!
Larsen’s Pool & Spa has become the most trusted custom pool builder in Tampa Bay. If you have any other questions about the chlorine tablet shortage, are interested in discussing which pool would be best for you, or have questions about our swimming pool financing options, give us a call at (727) 786-POOL (7665) today.
