How To

How to Consider a Salt Water Swimming Pool

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By eHow Contributing Writer
(9 Ratings)

If you're thinking about installing a swimming pool in your home, you might want to consider a salt water pool. Many people fall on either side of the salt water versus chlorine pool argument, citing all sorts of advantages and disadvantages. In the end, the decision is a personal one. Follow these steps to consider a salt water swimming pool.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Understand the salt component. When considering a salt water pool it's important for you to understand the level and function of salt. Most people conjure up images of a salty ocean or sea when they hear the term "salt water." However, a salt water pool is less than 10 times as salty as the sea. The salt level in the pool is around the salt level in the human body and so it is unlikely to bother you to the extent that sea water might.

  2. Step 2

    Think about water treatment benefits. Salt water pool systems are designed to lessen the need for pool treatment chemicals such as chlorine. Because the salt naturally produces chlorine, you save time and money and some of the chemicals that go into a freshwater pool.

  3. Step 3

    Think about cost. The installation of a salt water pool requires some initial upfront costs. However, the savings over time on chemicals and weekly treatments and cleaning will amortize. So consider how long you will keep the pool or stay in your present house to make the right decision as to whether a salt water pool system is right for you.

  4. Step 4

    Think about PH levels. One of the things you need to consider with a salt pool is the relative levels of acidity, or the PH level. The PH level of a salt water pool can fluctuate quickly and drastically, requiring that you treat the pool correctly in this event. While not a regular occurrence, changes in PH levels of salt water pools are something you need to be vigilant about.

  5. Step 5

    Take the salt into account. While there's not enough salt in a salt water pool system to be destructive or harmful, the salt can be unsightly or annoying. Dark walkways or concrete surrounding the pool often get stained with salt rings. Similarly, many people report a sticky feeling on their skin after a swim. However, others say that the soft water soften the skin. Test out a salt water people to consider the effects of the salt.

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