When designing your perfect backyard oasis with expert Arizona pool builders like No Limit Pools and Spas, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing the suitable water sanitizing system: saltwater vs chlorine. Both systems ensure clean, safe water for swimming, but understanding their differences can help you make the best choice for your lifestyle, budget, and pool maintenance needs.
By weighing the pros and cons of saltwater vs Chlorine, you can select the solution that complements your custom pool and enhances your enjoyment for years. Let No Limit Pools guide you through this crucial decision to create a backyard retreat perfect for your lifestyle needs.
Let us Begin Weighing Your Options: Saltwater Vs Chlorine
What Is Saltwater Purification?
Despite its name, a saltwater purification system still uses chlorine to sanitize the pool water. When a saltwater system is installed, sodium chloride (standard table salt) is added to the water to create a mild saline solution. Next, a chlorine generator is added to the pool’s filtration system, which converts the chloride in the salt into chlorine.
The chlorine then sanitizes the water, killing bacteria, viruses, and algae. As the chlorine breaks down, it turns back into salt. This means once a saltwater system is installed, it will continue to cycle and clean the water without adding more salt.
Saltwater Pros
Saltwater purification systems have several great pros to consider when selecting a sanitizing solution for your pool. These pros include:
- Saltwater systems provide a gentler swimming experience with fewer harsh chemicals.
- Saltwater is better for your hair, skin, and eyes than chlorinated water.
- Saltwater pools require less routine maintenance from the pool owner.
- Saltwater feels gentle and soft.
Saltwater Cons
However, saltwater pools also have some cons to consider. These cons include:
- Saltwater purification systems require a more expensive initial investment than traditional chlorine pools; however, they can be cheaper in the long run.
- Salt is corrosive and can damage components of your pools, so your accessory options may be limited.
- Saltwater systems are more complex, so any breakdowns or upgrades may require hiring a technician.
What Is Chlorine Purification?

A chlorine purification system is the standard method of sanitizing pool water. Chlorine is added directly to the water to kill bacteria, viruses, and algae. Using a chlorine purification system requires the pool owner to test the water’s pH, measure out the correct balance of chemicals, and add them to the water. The pool owner routinely performs this process as part of their routine maintenance.
Chlorine Pros
Like saltwater purification, chlorine has several pros to consider, including:
- Chlorine systems are celebrated for their effectiveness and affordability.
- Chlorine purification is initially cheaper than a saltwater system
- Chlorine does not damage masonry or pool accessories, as salt can
Chlorine Cons
There are also a few cons to having a chlorine pool:
- Chlorine can be harmful to skin, hair, and eyes, causing irritation.
- Chlorine requires routine maintenance and handling harsh chemicals
- Chlorine may have adverse health effects with prolonged exposure
Saltwater Vs Chlorine
Choosing between saltwater vVs chlorine purification systems significantly impacts your pool’s maintenance, cost, and user experience. Both systems have unique benefits and considerations, so understanding how they work is crucial. Chlorine systems are known for their reliability in killing bacteria and algae, but they require regular chemical balancing and can sometimes lead to skin or eye irritation.
On the other hand, saltwater systems provide a gentler swimming experience, using a salt cell to generate chlorine at lower levels. While saltwater pools typically require less manual maintenance and are more comfortable for sensitive skin, they come with a higher upfront cost for installation and equipment.
At No Limit Pools & Spas, we understand the complexities of choosing the right system for your pool. With years of experience as Arizona’s premier pool builder, our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help you weigh the pros and cons based on your budget, lifestyle, and preferences.
Whether you prioritize saltwater’s low maintenance or traditional chlorine’s cost-effectiveness, we’ll guide you to a solution that fits your needs perfectly. Let us simplify the process and ensure your pool delivers the best experience for you and your family!
Contact our team at No Limit Pools & Spas to learn more about Saltwater Vs Chlorine.
