When choosing how to disinfect the pool in your home, some homeowners want to know the difference between a pool chlorinated with chlorine tablets and one using a saltwater chlorinating generator. Each option has its distinct advantages and drawbacks. Understanding the differences between these two options can help you make the best choice for your backyard oasis. Here’s a breakdown of each to help you better understand the differences and which might be better for you and your family.
Chlorine Tablet Disinfection
How does Chlorine Tablet Disinfection Work? Using chlorine tablets to disinfect is the traditional way of sanitizing a swimming pool in Phoenix, Arizona. Chlorine tablets are placed in a floating dispenser or dispersed into the water via an in-deck or in-line Chlorinator. The chlorine tablets dissolve over time to sanitize the water. The tablets dissolve slowly releasing chlorine, into the water, killing bacteria, algae, and other harmful microorganisms helping to keep the pool clean and safe for your family’s use.
Pros:
- Lower Initial Cost: Chlorinating a pool with tablets is cost-effective. The equipment set-up and ongoing costs are low, making it a budget-friendly choice.
- Well-Established Technology: Using Chlorine tablets to sanitize pool water has been used for decades and is a tried-and-true method for pool water sanitation. Additionally, there is no expensive equipment to maintain.
- Effective Sanitization: Chlorine is highly effective and eliminates bacteria and algae, an important element for a safe swimming environment.
Cons:
- Chemical Handling: Chlorine tablets require regular handling and storage of hazardous chemicals, which can be a hassle and poses some health risks if not managed correctly.
- Skin and Eye Irritation: Chlorine tablets can cause dryness, irritation, and discomfort to the skin and eyes, particularly for swimmers with sensitive skin.
- More Frequent Drains: Chlorine tablets contain high levels of cyanuric acid (CYA). The CYA protects chlorine from the sun, but as it builds up in the water, it reduces chlorine killing efficiency. Currently, the best way to reduce CYA level in the pool water is to drain the pool.
- Frequent Testing: Chlorine levels need to be monitored and adjusted frequently to maintain proper sanitation, which can be time-consuming.
Saltwater Pools
How Does a Saltwater Pool Work? Saltwater systems are a chlorine generating system that disinfects the water. Salt is dissolved into the pool’s water. While the pool is running, the water flows over the chlorine-generating cell, which divides the salt (NaCl) into sodium (Na) and Chloride (Cl). The Chloride is converted into active chlorine which sanitizes the water.
Pros:
- Softer Water: The water in a saltwater pool feels softer and less harsh, which can be gentler on the skin and eyes.
- Less Hazardous Chemical Storage: Because chlorine is generated at the pool equipment, chlorine tablet storage is unnecessary. Other pool chemicals to balance the pool will still be required.
- Better Chemical Control: Pools chlorinated with a saltwater system often have better control of chemical disinfection. First, the pool water passing directly over the chlorine-generating cell plates is super-chlorinated. Super chlorination eliminates chlorine by-products, which cause most of the chemical irritation of sensitive issues, and is the source of the dreaded “chlorine smell”. Second, pools which are chlorinated with saltwater systems can have a stable level of cyanuric acid (stabilizer), which protects chlorine from the sun and provides a chlorine “storage tank”. Having stabilizer levels as low as possible, based on temperatures, vegetation, and usage patterns, is preferable as higher stabilizer levels slow down chlorine kill times.
Cons:
- Higher Initial Cost: Installing a saltwater chlorine generating system is more expensive due to the cost of the chlorine generator and additional components associated with the salt system.
- Salt Corrosion / Calcium Build-up: Salt can be corrosive to pool equipment and surfaces. The system also creates a high pH chlorine solution. This drives up the pH of the pool water affecting solubility. Additionally, this chlorination process can cause calcium and magnesium to build-up on the pool’s surface and water line leaving a white residue behind. This potential corrosion and build-up can lead to higher maintenance or replacement costs over time.
- Complex / Costly Repairs: Repairing or replacing components of a saltwater system can be more complex and costly compared to traditional chlorine systems.
Making the Decision That’s Best for You and Your Family
Choosing between a traditional chlorine tablet and saltwater pool depends on various factors, including budget, maintenance preferences, and personal comfort. Here are some considerations to help you decide:
- Budget: If you are looking for a more cost-effective option, traditional chlorine tablets might be the way to go
- Water Chemistry Maintenance: Consider how much time and money you want to spend on weekly chemical maintenance. Saltwater pools often have better control of chemical disinfection, allowing you to lower chlorine levels while maintaining clear, safe, sanitized water.
- Comfort: If you have sensitive skin or eyes, the softer water of a saltwater pool might offer a more comfortable swimming experience.
- Longevity: Evaluate the longevity and durability of your pool equipment. If you are concerned about potential salt corrosion, calcium buildup, or having to replace your chlorine-generating cell every 3-5 years, you might lean toward chlorinating with tablets rather than a salt system.
Choosing the right sanitation system for your Chandler home is a significant decision. At AZ Oasis Pools, our experts are here to help you weigh your options and find the perfect pool disinfection system that fits your lifestyle and preferences. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of chlorine tablets and saltwater systems and get started on creating your ultimate backyard retreat!