Swimming Pool Sanitation Options

Have you heard someone say “I love my saltwater pool?” or what about “Buy a mineral system, it makes your skin feel so much better!”. These statements leave many of our pool customers completely confused as to what is best for their pool. There are many swimming pool sanitation options. Here are the most widely used:

1. Chlorine- I think everyone is familiar with the chlorine pool. It is the old faithful of what everyone is used to. It is definitely more cost effective during installation because a chlorinator is included in most pool installations. The water filters through the chlorine tabs and sanitizes the water.

2. Saltwater Systems- This one is becoming more popular because people like the sanitation effects of chlorine, but do not enjoy the smell or feel of chlorine. Chemically, however, you are still getting chlorine. The salt systems are the most costly up front adding around $1600 or more to the cost of a pool when you elect to buy a name brand system. Of course, there are cheaper ones, but when it comes to water, salt, and electronics you get what you pay for in this scenario.

3. Mineral systems- This type of system has been around for awhile and is popular because it is not nearly as costly as a salt system initially. The system uses minerals that protect against bacteria and act as a neutralizer to help maintain pH. The hindrances are you must replace the reservoir every six months and the additional packages every 1-3 weeks.

4. Non-Chlorine Options- Many pool owners are also using non-chlorine chemical options. Water treated with a non-chlorine chemical feels softer and looks inviting without a chemical taste or odor. It’s gentle to equipment and won’t bleach your liner or swimsuit. You can swim immediately after application. Your eyes won’t burn…and you won’t believe how good your skin and hair feel after swimming! It allows you to escape the chore of daily water testing and maintenance.

All of the above options work for fiberglass swimming pools and vinyl swimming pools.