What Kind of Water Should You Use in a Swimming Pool?

Once you’ve decided you want to build a swimming pool on your property, your mind is likely filled with ideas for creating a backyard oasis. While picking out tile colors and considering features such as sun decks is fun, you also have some simple decisions to make. One of the first things your pool installer will ask is what type of pool you want to install. Although you can fill a pool with many types of water, there are a few that are common choices. Exploring the types of water that can go in a swimming pool helps you make this decision early in the planning process.

Consider Chlorine Water as the Default Choice

When you think about swimming, most likely you remember diving into a pool with chlorine water. This is the most common option due to its easier maintenance and the availability of supplies. Although you can technically fill a pool with generic tap water, this will eventually lead to the development of algae, bacteria, and other things that aren’t safe for swimming. Adding the right type and amount of chlorine kills off bacteria and plant growth that could cause you harm. You’ll also want to consider chlorine is safe for the average person when it’s used correctly, but it might not be the best option for people with serious skin allergies or respiratory conditions such as asthma.

Explore the Benefits of Saltwater

This is the next most popular option for swimming pools, and it’s important to know that using salt water is often viewed as the more natural choice. A saltwater pool does have a small amount of chlorine to keep algae and bacteria levels low. But this type of pool system uses salt to create its own chlorine to keep the water clean. The salt you use for this type of pool water is designed specifically for this purpose. People who swim in saltwater pools tend to prefer them because they leave their skin less irritated and more hydrated compared to water filled with chlorine.

Choose Mineral Water for the Most Natural Option

Even though saltwater is less drying than chlorinated water, some people still prefer a more natural approach for their swimming enjoyment. Mineral water uses additional minerals in place of salt and chlorine to maintain the cleanliness and clarity of the water. These minerals usually include magnesium, sodium, and potassium chloride. Although you may still use some chlorine and other sanitizing chemicals, you’ll find you reduce their use dramatically with the addition of minerals. The main difference you’ll notice between mineral water and other options is that this type tends to have fewer negative effects on the materials pool builders use to create outdoor swimming areas. You may also notice the minerals provide you with a deeper sense of muscle relaxation that enhances your swimming sessions. 

If you’re looking to add a pool to your property, reach out to San Diego Pools, the pros with decades of experience. We’re one of the premier San Diego pool companies, and our team of pool design and construction experts is dedicated to building exactly the pool you want and providing you with the highest-quality service in the industry. To get started on building the pool of your dreams, call us today.