Pool Sanitizers: A Comprehensive Guide

Sanitization Method: Chlorine pools use chlorine tablets, liquid chlorine, or granular chlorine to sanitize the water, eliminating bacteria and algae.

Maintenance: Maintaining a chlorine pool requires regularly monitoring and adjusting the chlorine levels to ensure the water remains clean and safe for swimming. Additionally, regular checks and adjustments are needed for pH levels and other water balance factors.

Comfort: Chlorine pools can be more irritant for those with sensitive skin, but when maintained properly, are very comfortable. A large misconception is that the strong smell associated with chlorine pools is due to too much chlorine, when in fact the smell is caused by Chloramines. This is the result of chlorine disinfectants combining with other substances like perspiration, cosmetics, etc. A simple way to put it, is that if there is a strong “chlorine” smell, it requires more chlorine.

Sanitization Method: Saltwater pools employ a salt chlorinator, or salt cell, to convert salt into chlorine through electrolysis. The resulting chlorine then serves to sanitize the pool, just like a regular chlorine pool.

Maintenance: Like chlorine pools, saltwater pools require regular monitoring and adjusting of pH, Alkalinity, and other water balance factors. The main difference in maintaining the sanitization is that once you have the salt at the correct level, you shouldn’t need to add salt for quite some time. However, it is good practice to check salt levels on a regular basis to ensure proper operation. It is also important to check the stabilizer or cyanuric acid levels regularly. There is extra maintenance for equipment compared to chlorine pools, as you will need to clean the salt cell or chlorine generator.

Comfort: Due to salt being present in the water, saltwater pools generally have a softer feel to them while swimming.

Sanitization Method: Bromine, typically found in spas due to its performance in higher temperature water, acts as an effective sanitizer.

Maintenance: Similar to chlorine, bromine levels need to be consistently monitored and adjusted. It’s important to note that bromine is not stabilized like chlorine, making it less sustainable and requiring more frequent checks and additions. Bromine can be quite costly.

Comfort: Bromine tends to be less irritating to the skin and eyes compared to chlorine, providing a comfortable environment for swimmers. However, its distinctive smell may not be appealing to some.

Each of these sanitizers has its advantages to consider, and your choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and lifestyle. By understanding the differences, you can make an informed decision that best suits your swimming preferences.