Salt water pools have recently become more popular because of how energy efficient they are. However, salt water pools are commonly misunderstood. Salt water pools are nothing like the water you experience when you take a trip to the beach and take a dip in the ocean. They get their name because they use sodium (salt) as a healthy alternative to the direct application of chlorine. Keep reading to learn more about salt water pool maintenance.

Is a Salt Water Pool the Right Choice for You?

There are numerous health benefits that salt offers the human body, for example ingesting sea salt, salt water baths, and salt spa treatments provide a clearer immune system. As wonderful as that information is, saltwater pools are not magic bodies of water that have just had mass amounts of sea salt dumped into them.

The truth about salt water pools is that they are much easier on swimmers eyes and skin. They are great for people who are naturally sensitive, especially to pool chemicals like chlorine. Salt water pools still require maintenance, although it is different then the typical swimming pool maintenance. Here is what you need to keep in mind, and closely consider before making the choice to invest in a salt water swimming pool.

pH Balance

pH is a measure of acidity or basicity in a liquid. A high pH indicates the water is basic, or alkaline. A low pH means the water is more acidic. Chlorine pool owners know the importance of  keeping pH levels balanced at all times. Saltwater pools generally end up having a higher pH level. A high pH could result in heavy mineral buildup. The problem with this is you could end up with clogged pipes. Having clogged pipes means that proper filtration cannot occur, resulting in a dirty pool. So make sure to regularly test the pH of your pool. You can also add muriatic acid to your salt water pools to supplement. This will aid in maintaining the optimum pH. It is important to remember to keep on top of your salt water pool maintenance.

Corrosion

Corrosion is perhaps one of the most important things to be aware of when deciding if you want to build a salt water pool in your backyard. Salt naturally breaks down materials overtime because salt is caustic. This could potentially cause problems to your pool down the road. Salt has the ability to corrode pool equipment such as ladders, lighting fixtures, not to mention the lining of the pool itself. So when choosing equipment for your salt water swimming pool, opt for tools made of aluminum when possible. Aluminum is naturally resistant to salt water corrosion.

Solid Salt Residue

Salt residue is going to occur when you have a salt water pool. Water will get out of the pool one way or another. Especially if you have children, splashing water is bound to happen in the pool. This is not a big deal in itself. However, overtime when salt water gets splashed out of the pool and onto other surfaces it leaves residue. After the salt evaporates, the buildup of solid salt residue can corrode the materials around your pool. What can you do? Regularly wash away salt residue. Adding this  step to your weekly pool maintenance will certainly prolong the life of your salt water pool.

Keeping up with your Pool Maintenance

It is important to keep in mind that owning a salt water swimming pool is going to help the environment. In the end, it is better to own a salt water pool rather than a chlorine based pool. There are a lot of benefits to owning a salt water pool as well. Some of those benefits are not having itching or irritated skin, as well as itchy or red eyes. Salt water is softer on the skin than chlorine is.