What’s the difference between a saltwater pool and a chlorine pool?
September 21, 2018by SEOteamUncategorized
We recently received a call from a local homeowner who expressed interest in installing a pool next spring. Her primary question surrounded the differences between saltwater pools and chlorine-based pools.
Since this is a question we tend to get rather frequently, we thought we’d take a minute to address the query in a blog.
The basics of a chlorine pool
This is by far the most common type of swimming pool that we install in Denver, CO and its surrounding areas. This type pool is generally kept clean through the use of chlorine tablets.
Not only do they help disinfect the water, chlorine tablets also help prevent algae from blooming. Tablets are sometimes added to an external feeder (the external feeder is generally installed in close proximity to the swimming pool) and other times, they’re placed in a floating device that’s placed in the water.
A floating dispenser can be purchased for $10 to $30 dollars, but you’ll want to keep in mind that this option is best for people who own small-sized pools.
If you have a large pool, you’ll be better served by installing an external feeder, since this will allow for better chlorine distribution. External systems can span between $50 and $250.
Most people find that chlorine pools are easy to maintain, so long as they remember to keep a stock of chlorine tablets in a backyard shed or in the garage.
The basics of a saltwater pool
A key thing to remember, is that just because it’s “saltwater-based” that doesn’t mean the pool is chlorine-free. Instead of adding tablets, this type of system uses a special type of machine that helps to convert the salt that’s in the water into chlorine.
You’ll also want to keep in mind that the cost to purchase a chlorine generator can span between $500 and $3,000, depending on your needs. The salt cells in the pool will also need to be replaced every few years; this can cost between $200 and $700, on average.
Saltwater pools have become increasingly popular in the past two decades, but some people find that they’re cost prohibitive.
Annual costs
The average annual cost for chemicals for a saltwater pool may be relatively inexpensive (most people find they pay less than $100 per year), but since they tend to use a lot more energy, this can lead to upticks in your monthly electric bill.
The average annual cost for chemicals for a chlorine pool can run between $300 and $800, depending on the size of your pool.
If you’re thinking about adding a pool to your Denver, Colorado home and you have questions about the pros and cons of a chlorine pool versus a saltwater pool, we’re happy to help.
Call Wetworks Pool and Spa today at 720-401-0004 to speak with a local customer service representative. Or, if you’d like to schedule a time for us to come to your home to provide you with a no-cost installation estimate, we’re happy to help with that too! Call us today to get started.
