Pros and Cons of saltwater hot tubs
Pros of a Saltwater Hot Tub System
Softer, Smoother Water:
Saltwater systems provide a much gentler, softer feel to the water compared to traditional chlorine systems. The salt reduces the harshness, making it less irritating to the skin and eyes.
Lower Chemical Usage:
Saltwater systems produce chlorine through electrolysis, meaning you don't have to add as much store-bought chlorine. This can result in fewer chemicals needed overall, and you avoid the harsh chlorine smell typically associated with traditional systems.
Consistent Chlorine Levels:
Saltwater systems continuously produce chlorine, helping maintain a consistent level of sanitizer in the water. This reduces the need for frequent adjustments and makes water care more hands-off.
Less Maintenance of Chlorine:
Once the salt is added to the system, it’s constantly converted into chlorine, which reduces the need for regular chlorine additions, leading to less frequent purchases of chlorine chemicals.
Fewer Chloramines:
Since chlorine is being generated continuously in a saltwater system, the buildup of chloramines (the compound responsible for the strong, unpleasant chlorine smell) is less likely, resulting in a cleaner, fresher-smelling tub.
More Natural Feel:
Saltwater is a more natural and "gentler" alternative to chemically treated water, offering a more comfortable and enjoyable soak experience.
Reduced Pool-Style Maintenance:
You won’t need to manually add sanitizer frequently, making it a more automated process, particularly for busy owners who prefer a more self-maintaining system.
Cons of a Saltwater Hot Tub System
Higher Initial Cost:
Saltwater systems typically have a higher upfront cost due to the equipment required, including the saltwater generator and specialized components like a salt cell. This can be a significant investment compared to traditional chlorine-based systems.
Ongoing Maintenance of the Salt Cell:
The salt-chlorine generator requires periodic maintenance, including cleaning the salt cell every few months. If the cell becomes damaged or malfunctions, it can be expensive to replace. Some models have disposable cartridges that can become costly and customers frequently report that they don’t last as long as advertised.
Potential for Scale Build-Up:
Salt can cause scaling in the system, especially if your local water has high mineral content. You’ll need to clean the salt cell and check for any mineral deposits regularly to prevent build-up, which can impact performance.
Less Control Over Chlorine Levels:
While a saltwater system continuously generates chlorine, some owners may prefer to have more direct control over the amount of chlorine in the water. With a saltwater system, you rely on the generator, which can sometimes produce more or less chlorine than needed based on various factors (e.g., water temperature).
Complex Repairs:
Saltwater systems can be more complex to repair compared to traditional chlorine systems. If something goes wrong, such as with the generator or salt cell, repairs may require professional help, leading to higher costs.
Need for Regular Monitoring:
Despite the system being automated, regular monitoring of salt levels, water balance (pH, alkalinity), and chlorine output is still required. While this is less maintenance than chlorine systems, it’s not completely maintenance-free.
Possible Corrosion of Metal Parts:
If the salt levels are too high, there’s a risk of corrosion to metal parts in the hot tub, including jets, heaters, and plumbing components. This can lead to costly repairs if not properly monitored.
Salt May Not Be Ideal for Some Areas:
In areas with hard water or high mineral content, the saltwater system may not be as effective or might require more frequent cleaning of the salt cell and additional water treatments.
Purchase a water softener to mitigate this issue. Click here to see our recommended water softener.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Conclusion
A saltwater hot tub system offers significant benefits in terms of softer water, lower chemical usage, and consistent sanitation, making it an excellent choice for those who want a more automated, natural-feeling soak. However, the higher initial cost, ongoing maintenance of the salt cell, and potential for scale build-up and equipment corrosion may be deterrents for some buyers.
If you’re willing to put in a bit more care and investment, the saltwater system can provide a cleaner, more enjoyable hot tub experience over the long term. On the other hand, if you prefer a more straightforward, low-maintenance approach or have concerns about repairs and equipment upkeep, a traditional chlorine system may be a better fit. Traditional systems are also more proven.
