Going swimming is one of the most enjoyable activities out there. Everyone does not have quick access to the ocean or a lake, but luckily pools are a common option. However, people may wonder what types of pools are best to swim in. The most common pool types are chlorine pools or saltwater pools.
Saltwater Pools Vs. Chlorine Pools
Traditional chlorine pools use quite a few harsh chemicals. If you’re looking for a more chemical-free swimming experience, saltwater pools are a great alternative.
These pools use electrolysis to generate chlorine from salt and other natural ingredients, making them a much safer choice.
Chlorine pools are still the most popular type of pool, but more and more people are making the switch to saltwater.
Here’s a look at some of the key differences between these two types of pools:
Saltwater Pool Installation
When it comes to saltwater pools, installation tends to be a little more involved than for chlorine pools. This is because saltwater pools require specialized equipment, such as a generator and other components.
However, with proper installation and maintenance, saltwater pools can provide a great swimming experience with fewer chemicals.
Cost
Saltwater pools tend to be more expensive to install than chlorine pools. This is because you need to purchase a saltwater chlorination system, which can cost around $1,500. You also need to add salt to the pool, which can be an ongoing expense depending on how quickly your pool evaporates it.
However, once you have the initial investment of a saltwater chlorinator, you won’t spend as much on chemicals. This can make saltwater pools a more affordable option in the long run.
Maintenance
Saltwater pools are generally easier to maintain than chlorine pools. This is because you don’t have to add chemicals to the water, and it doesn’t take long for the salt to dissipate. Saltwater pools also don’t require you to shock them as often, so they are less likely to have an algae problem.
If you do choose a saltwater pool, make sure that the water chemistry is balanced regularly. Saltwater pools can be more corrosive than chlorine pools, so it’s important to test the water and add chemicals as needed.
Health
Saltwater pools are generally healthier for your skin and hair than chlorine pools. This is because saltwater is less likely to strip away natural oils and cause irritation. Additionally, saltwater pools are gentler on your eyes and lungs, so they are a good choice if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
Final Thoughts About Saltwater Vs. Chlorine Pools
If you are interested in chemical free pools, saltwater pools are the way to go. Though they require more maintenance and specialized equipment, they are well worth the investment for those looking to enjoy an all-natural swimming experience.
Overall, both chlorine pools and saltwater pools have their pros and cons. It’s important to weigh your options and decide what’s best for you and your family.
If you’d prefer to stay away from relying on chemicals for treating the water in your swimming pool, there are some non-chemical alternatives available to you. One example is a system that relies on titanium oxidation with copper ionization.
In this type of system in Los Angeles, CA, as the water flows from the pump into the pool, it goes through an ionization and oxidation chamber, where the water either receives copper ions or becomes oxygenated, depending on the controls you’ve set. Either setting will result in the pool water being sanitized, which will kill off viruses, bacteria and algae. This is widely considered the most effective non-chemical strategy for sanitizing pool water. Read on to learn more about the process.
Copper ionization
The process of copper ionization was initially developed for the Apollo Space Program in 1967 as a means of ensuring drinking water was safe and that scale wouldn’t form in cooling systems during space missions. The ionization systems used in pools today are quite similar to that initial technology.
A major benefit of this process is that the copper ions generated by the system are completely safe for humans, plants and animals, unlike many of the chemicals used in other types of pools. You can still get excellent results in terms of killing off bacteria, viruses and algae without worrying about the effects it’ll have on your family, pets or landscaping.
The copper ions get added into the water for a few hours each week (or just a few minutes each week for hot tubs and spas). Because the processes of titanium oxidation with copper ionization are natural, you don’t have to worry about any chemical backwash issues, meaning it’s perfectly safe for you to drain out and backwash your pool.
Non-chemical oxidation
The non-chemical oxidation that can be performed on today’s pools is a high-tech form of sanitization and purification. The water passes through a chamber while a low voltage electrical current gets passed through the coated titanium plates in the chamber. While the pool is in oxidation mode, the electrolysis process results in a separation of the water into hydrogen and oxygen. This separation process results in a combination of hydroxyl radicals and free oxygen atoms, making for some of the most powerful oxidizers you’ll find for disinfecting water.
The oxygen atoms and hydroxyl ions are then responsible for taking out body oils, dead organic matter (killed first by copper ions), sun tan lotions and any other substances that might be found in the pool water.
Using a combination of copper ionization and non-chemical titanium oxidation will result in much clearer, cleaner and purer water than you’d get in other types of systems, including chemical-based treatment methods. If you have any further questions about titanium oxidation with copper ionization, feel free to reach out to the team at Avanti Pools, Inc. to speak with a professional pool contractor in Los Angeles, CA. We look forward to discussing the benefits of this treatment system for your pool!
Now that the weather is starting to warm up and summer is right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to get your swimming pool ready for the season. Chemical-free pools in Los Angeles, CA offer a great place for relaxation, enjoyment and exercise without the disadvantages of chlorinated pools, but they require ongoing care and maintenance to keep them in the best condition possible. With this in mind, it’s a good idea to find out more about how chemical-free pools work and how to properly care for them.
How does a chemical-free pool work?
There are many different types of pool filtration systems that are designed to keep water clean and safe to swim in. One of the most effective types of pool systems uses a low-voltage electrolyte process to cleanse pools. This type of system creates ions that cleanse pool water through a specialized filtration and pumping system. Without salt, chlorine or copper, this type of pool system effectively maintains clean, chemical-free water that is safe to swim in.
Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about chemical-free pools in Los Angeles, CA:
- What happens if algae start to form in the pool? If algae begin to form in your chemical-free pool, it’s important to respond proactively. The first thing you should do is replace the acid solution in your pool system to ensure effective filtration. Next, extend the run time of your pool pump by at least a couple hours to help clear the algae. As your pump is running, use a brush to get rid of algae buildup.
- Will chemicals damage my pool? If chemicals are mistakenly added to your pool during pool maintenance, you don’t need to panic. Typically, chemicals won’t damage your pool, and they will naturally dissipate as time passes and your filtration system continues to process your pool water.
- What kind of maintenance is needed? One of the benefits of chemical-free pools in Los Angeles, CA is that they require minimal maintenance. You will likely use about a gallon of acid solution to run your pool’s filtration system every month, so it’s important to stock up on this solution and always keep extra on hand. You will also need to inspect your pool and check the water regularly to ensure that it stays balanced.
- What if something goes wrong? If there’s an issue with your pool, like imbalanced water levels, algae formation or a problem with the operation of your pump, you should reach out to a professional right away. A professional who specializes in the maintenance of chemical-free pools in Los Angeles, CA will be able to address your concerns and provide you with solutions.
Learn more about chemical-free pools in Los Angeles, CA
You can learn more about the benefits of chemical-free pools in Los Angeles, CA by reaching out to Avanti Pools, Inc. For decades, we have been proud to provide pool construction and maintenance services to our clients. We have extensive experience providing custom pool construction services on challenging sites with unique layouts, so you can feel confident that we are equipped to handle your pool installation project. You can find out more about everything that we have to offer by giving us a call today.
