Making sure that your pool is clean is more than just essential to enjoy it, a clean pool keeps you and your guests healthy! To keep them safe, traditional chlorine pools have long been the standard for pool builders in Vacaville, but advancements in sanitation technology now offer homeowners better alternatives. Saltwater and UV/Ozone systems provide effective, low-maintenance solutions that improve water quality while reducing the need for harsh chemicals in both pools and spas.
But which option is right for you? In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between saltwater pools and UV/Ozone sanitation, helping you determine the best fit for your pool and lifestyle.
Cookie Cutter Pools is an expert residential pool builders in Vacaville as well as Sonoma County, Napa County, Solano County and the greater Sacramento area. Reach out to us to get more information on salt water and UV/Ozone options and to get a free estimate on your pool project.
What Is a Saltwater Pool?
A “saltwater pool” is actually a chlorinated pool. We know it sounds confusing!
These pools use a small amount of salt to generate chlorine through electrolysis with a salt chlorine generator. This generator converts dissolved salt into chlorine through electrolysis.
Once the chlorine has finished treating the pool, it reverts back into salt and the cycle repeats. This process continuously sanitizes the water, keeping it clean and safe without the harsh effects of manually added chlorine.
Starting Your Saltwater Pool
To achieve a salt water pool, we initially load up your pool with bags of salt (this typically happens around 30 days after the pool is filled with water) and then there is a “salt cell” (part of the salt chlorine generator equipment) that extracts that sodium from the chloride within the salt molecules (i.e. electrolysis). And every time the pump is working, small doses of chlorine are consistently going into the pool.
“Are Saltwater Pools the Same as The Ocean?”
We get this question a lot! Besides the obvious reasons (sharks, fish, sandy swimsuits, etc.), a saltwater pool and a dip in the ocean are not the same. Saltwater pools have significantly less salt than ocean water, about 10 times less salinity. This means the water in a saltwater pool will feel much softer on the skin and eyes than compared to the stinging salt of ocean water.
Benefits of Saltwater Pools
Some of the advantages of this sanitation system include:
Softer, Gentler Water
Saltwater pools create a more comfortable swimming experience for every style of pool to transform your backyard. The water feels silkier and is less likely to irritate the skin, eyes, and hair compared to traditional chlorine pools.
Lower Maintenance Costs
Although the initial investment in a saltwater system is higher, homeowners save money over time. The system generates chlorine as needed, reducing the need to buy and store pool chemicals.
Reduced Chemical Handling
With a salt chlorine generator, you won’t have to handle or store large amounts of chlorine, making pool care safer and easier. It also means fewer chlorine spills and bleached out bathing suits due to chlorine handling.
Saltwater Pools vs. Traditional Chlorine
For the most part, the difference between using a salt chlorine generator and adding traditional chlorine is up to personal preference. Both are effective ways to sanitize your pool water, in fact, we build pools with both systems! Recently, over half of our new pool customers opt for salt chlorination systems, so they are becoming an exceedingly popular option!
“Do Saltwater Generators Damage Pools?”
This is another common question we hear, but it’s a myth! Some other pool builders suggest that salt chlorine generators damage or corrode pools. However, these systems have been safely used in millions of pools for decades and are safe to use in virtually all pool types. We have successfully used them in over half of the pools we build! If you maintain your water chemicals and salt generator, you can avoid corrosion and keep your saltwater pool in great condition for years to come.
What Is UV/Ozone Sanitation?
UV and Ozone sanitation systems take pool cleanliness to the next level by using advanced technology to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and contaminants that traditional chlorine alone may miss.
UV Systems
These use ultraviolet light to neutralize harmful microorganisms as water passes through the system. UV disrupts their DNA, effectively destroying them without adding chemicals to the pool.
Ozone Systems
These inject ozone gas (O₃) into the pool water, acting as a powerful oxidizer that eliminates bacteria, viruses, and other organic contaminants. Ozone is significantly more effective than chlorine at killing harmful pathogens.
Benefits of UV/Ozone Systems
Some of the advantages of adding this sanitation system to your custom gunite pool include:
Less Reliance on Chemicals
UV and ozone systems dramatically reduce the need for chlorine, making the water feel cleaner and more natural.
Kills Tough Contaminants
Traditional chlorine struggles to eliminate certain bacteria and parasites, like Cryptosporidium. UV and ozone effectively neutralize these threats.
Environmentally Friendly & Energy-Efficient
These systems reduce the need for chemical additives, resulting in a more eco-conscious approach to pool care.
Comparing Costs and Maintenance
Let’s go over the main points of each method:
Saltwater Pools
Investing in a saltwater pool could be beneficial for those seeking lower maintenance options over time:
- Upfront Costs – Requires the installation of a salt chlorine generator, which is an investment.
- Long-term Savings – Over time, the system reduces chemical expenses since you won’t need to buy chlorine regularly.
- Maintenance – The salt cell must be cleaned periodically, and salt levels should be monitored. A salt cell in a pool or spa also typically needs to be replaced every 3–7 years, but this depends on maintenance and usage. Overall maintenance is lower than with traditional chlorine pools.
UV/Ozone Systems
A UV/Ozone system can make upkeep easier but it comes with a higher starting price:
- Upfront Costs – Higher initial investment due to the cost of UV and ozone equipment may require additional pool financing options.
- Long-term Savings – Extends the lifespan of your pool’s filtration system and reduces the need for chemical purchases.
- Maintenance – UV bulbs need replacing periodically, and ozone injectors require occasional servicing, but the reduced reliance on chlorine simplifies overall upkeep.
How Saltwater and UV/Ozone Systems Work Together
If you’re looking for the ultimate pool sanitation solution, combining saltwater and UV/Ozone systems can provide the best of both worlds.
Synergy Explained
- Saltwater Pools Provide Gentle, Continuous Chlorine – The salt chlorine generator keeps chlorine levels steady, ensuring the pool remains sanitized without strong chemical odors.
- UV/Ozone Delivers Extra Disinfection – The additional sanitation power of UV and ozone eliminates contaminants that chlorine alone may miss, reducing overall chlorine demand.
Best of Both Worlds
- Crystal-clear water with minimal chlorine odor
- Silky-smooth, irritation-free swimming experience
- Lower maintenance effort and costs over time
By combining these systems, you get a nearly chemical-free feel while ensuring your pool remains pristine.
Why Choose Cookie Cutter Pools for Your Pool Upgrade?
At Cookie Cutter Pools, we specialize in integrating advanced sanitation systems into custom in-ground pool designs. If you choose to build your pool with us, our experienced pool contractors ensure that your water is clean, clear, and easy to maintain.
Customization Expertise
We tailor every sanitation system to fit your specific pool needs and preferences.
Decades of Experience
Our team has extensive experience in designing and building in-ground pools with cutting-edge technology, on time and within budget!
Licensed & Certified Professionals
We guarantee high-quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.
Sustainability Focus
Our eco-friendly pool solutions help reduce chemical dependency and environmental impact.
Clean, Safe, Fun! Get Your Pool from Cookie Cutter Pools!
At Cookie Cutter Pools, we bring expertise, customization, and sustainability to every pool we build. Why settle for outdated pool care methods when you can enjoy the latest in sanitation technology?
Ready for a pool and spa with cleaner, softer, and safer water? Contact Cookie Cutter Pools today or give us a call at (888) 825-7665 to get started!
