Saltwater Swimming Pools – An Alternative To Chlorine
If you’re looking for a home swimming experience with a difference, why not consider a saltwater pool? Saltwater swimming pools are becoming increasingly popular in the UK due to the numerous benefits of swimming in water which hasn’t been treated with harsh chemicals. Swimming in saltwater is known to be helpful for a number of physical ailments, as well as aiding emotional wellbeing. The benefits are in fact so highly thought of that thalassotherapy, or sea water therapy, is now an extremely popular treatment at many spas and healing centres.
Typical swimming pools use chlorine to clean and disinfect the pool and rid it of bacteria or other contaminants. Chlorine which is added manually has a distinctive smell, and some people complain of irritation after using a chlorinated pool, such as red, itchy eyes, dry skin and hair, or breathing problems. Salt water pools are still cleaned using chlorine, but it is naturally produced using a chlorine generator by a process of electrolysis. This means that the level of chlorine within the pool remains stable, and the harsh effects of chemical chlorine can be avoided. You’ll find that a swim in a saltwater pool can be as gentle on your body as it is relaxing for your mind.
The water in saltwater swimming pools is known to be rich in essential elements including mineral salts, vitamins and amino acids. These can act as a natural cleansing and exfoliating agent for the skin, and as the water is free of chemicals, it can feel noticeably softer against your skin while you swim. Swimming in a salt water pool can help to boost your body’s immune system. The water is said to open the pores, allowing the absorption of minerals and aiding in the expulsion of potentially harmful toxins. The high concentration of minerals in the water is also known to improve blood circulation, and thalassotherapy is commonly used to treat conditions such as arthritis and general muscular and joint problems.
Caring for a saltwater swimming pool is no more complicated, time-consuming or expensive than it is to maintain a traditional chlorinated pool. You’ll need to invest in a salt chlorine generator of course, which can cost approximately £200 – £1000 depending on your needs and budget. These generators use table salt to produce natural chlorine to clean the pool while creating a high salinity level within the water. As with all pools, you’ll need to clean and maintain your saltwater pool properly, including regularly checking the chlorine and pH levels of your water.
If you already have a home swimming pool which is chlorinated, it is possible to convert this to a saltwater pool if you wish to do so. Considering the many health benefits of saltwater swimming, this is a decision that many pool owners choose to make. Talk to your pool contractor for advice if you’re thinking of building a new pool or converting an existing pool to a saltwater swimming pool.
