If owning a saltwater pool is your dream, you may be wondering about the level of maintenance required to keep it sparkling clean. Let’s find out how to keep a salt water pool clean and how much work is really involved.
Saltwater Swimming Pool Maintenance
To start, it’s important to understand that a saltwater pool is not maintenance-free. In fact, there is some extra work involved in keeping the salt levels balanced and making sure the chlorine generator is functioning properly. However, many people find that the benefits of owning a saltwater pool outweigh the extra effort required to maintain it.
Here are some tips for keeping your saltwater pool clean and sparkling:
- Test the salt levels regularly. The ideal range for salt levels in a swimming pool is between 3,000 and 4,000 ppm (parts per million). You can test the salt levels yourself with a simple kit from the hardware store, or you can have your pool service company do it for you.
- Keep the chlorine generator clean. The chlorine generator is what keeps the salt in your pool water from going bad and causing algae growth. Be sure to clean the generator regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Brush and vacuum your pool on a regular basis. Just like any other type of pool, a saltwater pool needs to be brushed and vacuumed on a regular basis to remove dirt, debris, and leaves. This will help keep the water looking its best and prevent problems down the road.
- Check the pH levels regularly. The ideal pH range for swimming pools is between 7.2 and 7.6. You can test the pH levels yourself with a simple kit from the hardware store, or you can have your pool service company do it for you.
- Add chlorine as needed. Even with a saltwater chlorination system, you may need to add chlorine on occasion to maintain the proper pH levels and prevent algae growth. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding chlorine to your pool.
Saltwater Pool vs Traditional Chlorinated Pool
Now that you know a little bit more about saltwater pool maintenance, you may be wondering how it compares to traditional chlorinated pools. Here are some of the main differences between the two:
- Saltwater pools require less chlorine. Because salt is used to generate chlorine in a saltwater pool, you don’t need to add chlorine as often as you would in a traditional chlorinated pool. This can save you time and money in the long run.
- Saltwater pools are gentler on your skin and eyes. If you’re sensitive to chlorine, you may find that swimming in a saltwater pool is more comfortable than swimming in a traditional chlorinated pool. The salty water is also easier on your eyes than chlorine.
- Saltwater pools require more maintenance. As we mentioned earlier, saltwater pools require regular testing of the salt levels and chlorine generator. You’ll also need to brush and vacuum the pool more often than you would a traditional chlorinated pool.
- Saltwater pools can be more expensive to set up. If you’re considering installing a saltwater pool, be aware that the initial cost can be higher than that of a traditional chlorinated pool. However, you may save money in the long run on chemicals and maintenance.
If you’re looking for a swimming pool that is easier to maintain, a saltwater pool may be the right choice for you. With proper care and maintenance, your saltwater pool will provide you with years of enjoyment.