Do Saltwater Pools Use Chlorine?

Everyone loves taking a dip in a backyard swimming pool, but we definitely don’t enjoy the smell of chlorine or how it burns our eyes. This is one of the reasons so many homeowners have decided to have a saltwater pool installed instead of a traditional model. The first question we’re always asked when this is being considered is an obvious one… Do saltwater pools have chlorine?

Many people are under the impression that saltwater pools have zero chlorine, but that isn’t true. Although you don’t add chlorine like you would in a traditional swimming pool, the salt system uses a process called electrolysis to create chlorine, albeit in a much smaller amount.

Benefits of Installing a Saltwater Pool

Even though saltwater pools do have chlorine in them, the smaller amount really does make all the difference. To give you an idea of why these pools have become so popular, here are several benefits of installing a saltwater pool in your backyard:

Gentler on Body & Clothing

Chlorine is actually quite rough on the body. In addition to their eyes burning when they’re exposed to chlorine, many people experience hives and other skin problems. It can also damage your clothing after a while. Since saltwater pools have a lower chlorine level, these issues are severely reduced.

No Harsh Chlorine Smell

Anyone who’s been in a pool with a high level of chlorine knows the smell all too well. It can be almost as annoying as the burning sensation in your eyes. With a saltwater pool, you won’t be subjected to this harsh smell, which will make your swimming much more enjoyable.

Reduces Effects of Allergies

Many people aren’t aware that breathing in fine salt particles will promote healthy breathing and reduce allergy symptoms. This is because the particles thin out any mucus that’s in your lungs. There’s even a treatment called halotherapy that uses salt particles to treat allergies.

Skin Feels Less Dried Out

People who suffer from sensitive skin often have problems swimming for long periods of time because their skin will feel dried out. Saltwater pools contain minerals such as magnesium and potassium, both of which can help the body retain moisture. This will ensure that the skin continues to be hydrated.

No Need to Store Chlorine

With a traditional pool, you don’t want to run out of chlorine when you need it most. This means you’re forced to store it, increasing the chance that kids or pets may get into it. Plus, it’s going to take up room somewhere. Since a saltwater pool makes its own chlorine, you won’t have to store any.

Helps Sore Muscles and Joints

There’s a reason why salt baths are a popular way for people to relax when having a spa day. Among many other things, saltwater has a soothing effect on your muscles and joints. This is primarily due to the bromine in the salt. If you suffer from arthritis, an injury, or a similar issue, swimming in saltwater will help.

Better for the Environment

While the most important benefits are typically the ones that affect swimmers directly, saltwater pools also have a positive effect on the environment. Chlorine from a traditional pool results in a strong emission of gas into the air. Saltwater pools produce less gas and are, therefore, less detrimental to the planet because of their lower chlorine content.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Saltwater therapy has been a popular method to reduce stress and anxiety for many years. The physical benefits of a saltwater pool are often felt right away, but you might not realize that it’s helping your mind as well. The calming and detoxifying effects will help you relax and have less worry.

Costs Less to Maintain

When calculating the cost of a pool installation, homeowners will notice that saltwater pools are a bit more expensive. That will balance out over time because you won’t need to purchase certain items, such as chlorine tablets. Plus, maintenance on a saltwater pool is often easier to do and will cost less.

Contact Larsen’s Pool & Spa to Learn About Saltwater Pools

Although saltwater pools do have chlorine, you can see that there are several benefits to installing one. As the most reliable custom pool builders in Tampa Bay and the surrounding areas, Larsen’s Pool & Spa can assist you with new pool construction and pool remodeling opportunities.

If you have any questions or would like to learn about our pool financing options, call our office at (727) 786-POOL today.