The Pros and Cons of Chlorine, Salt, and Mineral Pools

Types of Pool Water Systems: Traditional Chlorine, Saltwater, and Mineral Pools

Are you considering taking the plunge and getting your backyard oasis? Or you may already have a pool, but you're thinking of switching up your sanitation system. Well, you're in luck because there are a few fantastic options out there to keep your pool clean and safe to swim for you and your loved ones.

The most popular options are traditional chlorine, saltwater and mineral systems. Each system has its unique benefits, and finding which one is right for you can be challenging. So, what exactly is the difference between them? Don't worry. We've got you covered. In this article, we will break down the pros and cons of each system so you can make an informed decision and get back to doing what you love the most - swimming!

Traditional Chlorine Pool

The traditional pool has been around for decades and is the most common way to sanitise pool water. Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant that kills harmful bacteria and contaminants in your pool water.

By adding chlorine to your pool weekly, it breaks down into chemicals that work to clean and sanitise your pool. And the best part is that it's easy to maintain without a pool professional present to keep your pool water sparkling clean and free of bacteria and algae.

Three common types of chlorine that you can use to maintain your pool, such as chlorine tablets, granular chlorine and liquid chlorine, can be found at your local pool shop or purchased online.

Traditional pool pros and cons:

• Pros: Easy maintenance, effective disinfection, and readily available; the initial costs are cheaper.
• Cons: More costly in the long run due to requiring regular addition of chlorine, which can cause skin and eye irritation.

Saltwater Pool

There's a common misconception that saltwater pools don't contain any chlorine, but don't let that fool you - these pools have just the right amount of chlorine to keep your swimming experience safe and healthy.

The secret to a saltwater pool's chlorine levels lies in a chlorinator that uses electrolysis to generate chlorine from the salt in the water as it passes through the electrolytic cell. This chlorine then sanitises the pool water, keeping it clean and clear for you to enjoy.

But what makes saltwater pools so special? Well, they're gentler on your skin and eyes than traditional chlorine pools. Say goodbye to red, itchy eyes and hello to a refreshing swim that won't leave you feeling uncomfortable. Plus, the natural feel of salt water can make your swimming experience even more enjoyable and relaxing.

So, if you're looking for a pool that's easy to maintain and offers a more natural swimming experience, a saltwater pool might just be the perfect fit for you.

Saltwater pool pros and cons:

• Pros: Gentle on skin and eyes, lower chlorine levels, less maintenance.
• Cons: Higher initial cost, the potential for corrosion, and the need for a salt chlorinator.

Mineral Pool

If you're looking for a gentle swimming experience on your skin, hair and eyes, you're in for a treat. Mineral pools are a delightful combination of natural minerals and cutting-edge technology, making for a genuinely luxurious swim.
One of the critical differences between mineral pools and other types of pools is that they use minerals to enhance the swimming experience. And boy, do they ever enhance it! The naturally occurring minerals in a mineral pool are gentle on the skin, reducing irritation and dryness. They also promote softer, healthier hair, which is always a plus.

Now, you may be wondering how mineral pools generate chlorine without using straight salt. Well, it's similar to a saltwater pool in that a chlorinator is required. But instead of using salt, the chlorinator generates chlorine from the mineral pool salt. This means that while most mineral systems will have some amount of salt, it's not the primary source of chlorine.
But let's get back to the minerals themselves. Depending on your chosen system, your mineral pool could contain various minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium. These minerals can have multiple benefits, from reducing inflammation to promoting relaxation. 

Mineral pool pros and cons:

• Pros: Gentler on skin and hair, luxurious feel, additional health benefits.
• Cons: Higher initial cost.

MagnaPool

Similar to a mineral pool in that electrolysis is required to generate chlorine from the minerals instead of straight salt. However, MagnaPool is the only system that doesn’t require any salt. It is the only no-salt mineral pool system available. As such, it doesn’t leave any residue on the skin, and you can walk out of your pool and not need a shower to remove the smell or stickiness.

MagnaPool Pros and Cons:

• Pros: No salt required, gentler on the skin, no residue or smell. Scientifically proven to provide magnesium uptake via the skin.
• Cons: The initial setup can be expensive.

Bottom Line

After diving into the world of swimming pools, it's clear that there are a few different options to choose from when it comes to keeping your pool sparkling clean. So what's the verdict? Well, it all depends on your preferences!

A traditional chlorine pool might be right for you if you love that classic chlorine smell and want a low-maintenance option. If you're looking for a gentler alternative that still delivers crystal-clear water, a saltwater pool might be the way to go. And if you're all about natural products and want to indulge in a luxurious swim, a mineral pool could be the perfect fit.

No matter which type of pool you choose, one thing is certain: summertime fun is just a splash away! So grab your sunscreen and favourite floaties, and jump in – the water's fine!