Freshwater Swimming Pool vs. Saltwater Swimming Pool: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing the right pool system is about more than just crystal-clear water. From comfort and maintenance to long-term costs and environmental impact, the debate between a freshwater swimming pool and a saltwater swimming pool is one many Aussie pool owners face.
Adding to the conversation is the growing popularity of the magnesium pool - a modern alternative that blends the best of both worlds. Let’s break down how each option compares and which one may suit your lifestyle better.
What Is a Freshwater Swimming Pool?
A traditional freshwater swimming pool uses manually added chlorine (liquid, tablets, or powder) to sanitise water rather than generating chlorine automatically from a salt chlorinator. These pools typically have lower dissolved salt levels than saltwater systems.
Pros of a Freshwater Swimming Pool
Simple and widely understood system
Generally lower upfront equipment costs
Compatible with most pool designs
Cons of a Freshwater Swimming Pool
Requires regular water testing and chemical balancing
Poorly balanced water can cause irritation or chlorine odour
Ongoing chemical purchasing and handling
While effective, many swimmers find the chlorine in freshwater pools can be harsher on the skin and hair, especially during frequent summer use.
What Is a Saltwater Swimming Pool?
A saltwater swimming pool uses a salt chlorinator to convert dissolved salt into chlorine through electrolysis. This creates a continuous supply of chlorine, reducing the need for manual dosing.
Pros of a Saltwater Swimming Pool
Softer feel compared to traditional chlorine pools
More stable chlorine levels
Reduced chemical handling
Cons of a Saltwater Swimming Pool
Higher initial setup cost than manual chlorine dosing
Salt can be corrosive to metal fixtures and surrounds
Still relies on chlorine to sanitise the water which may irritate sensitive skin
Despite its name, a saltwater swimming pool is not chlorine-free. The water still contains chlorine - it’s just generated differently.
The Rise of the Magnesium Pool
A magnesium pool is often considered the next evolution in pool purification. Instead of standard salt, it uses advanced magnesium mineral blends to generate chlorine for sanitisation. These premium minerals enhance water quality and feel, delivering beautifully balanced water that’s softer on the skin, gentler on the eyes, and noticeably silkier to swim in. As a result, magnesium swimming pools offer a more luxurious, spa-like experience compared to traditional chlorine or standard saltwater pools.
Why Choose a Magnesium Swimming Pool?
Gentle on the eyes and sensitive skin
Magnesium minerals are anti-inflammatory and can sooth and maintain healthy muscles which can help with arthritis, mobility, leg cramps, and pain.
Minerals enhance filtration efficiency for improved water clarity
For homeowners, magnesium swimming pools offer a therapeutic swimming experience without the use of harsh chemicals associated with traditional pools.
Where Maytronics Mineral Swim Fits In
Maytronics Mineral Swim™ systems are designed specifically for Australian conditions, offering a premium magnesium pool solution that prioritises swimmer comfort, water quality and ease of maintenance.
Maytronics Mineral Swim™ uses:
Organic magnesium minerals sourced from the Dead Sea
Dual sanitisation with ozone purification technology
Reduced reliance on traditional pool chemicals
A luxurious theraputic swimming experience
Whether you’re upgrading an existing pool or planning a new one, Maytronics Mineral Swim™ makes switching to a magnesium swimming pool simple and cost-effective.
Freshwater vs. Saltwater vs. Magnesium Swimming Pools: A Quick Comparison
Traditional Freshwater Swimming Pools
Freshwater pools use manually added chlorine (liquid, tablets, or powder) to sanitise the water. Because dosing and balancing are done by hand, water chemistry can fluctuate more easily, which may lead to stronger chlorine odour or skin and eye irritation if not well-maintained. These systems are simple, familiar, and typically have lower upfront equipment costs but require more hands-on maintenance.
Best for: Budget-conscious pool owners who don’t mind regular testing and manual chemical handling.
Saltwater Swimming Pools
Saltwater pools use a salt chlorinator to generate chlorine automatically from dissolved salt. This provides more consistent sanitation and generally softer-feeling water than traditional chlorine pools. However, salt can increase the risk of corrosion on metal fixtures, stone surrounds, and pool equipment if not properly managed.
Best for: Owners wanting automated chlorine production with less day-to-day chemical handling.
Magnesium Mineral Swimming Pools
Magnesium pools use premium magnesium-rich mineral blends in a chlorination system to generate chlorine while enhancing water quality and comfort. The minerals improve water feel, making it noticeably softer, gentler on skin and eyes, and more luxurious to swim in. Magnesium systems typically operate with lower chlorine levels and are often preferred by frequent swimmers and families seeking a more spa-like experience.
Best for: Premium pool owners seeking therapeutic-feel water and superior swimming comfort.
Which Pool System Is Best for You?
If you’re after simplicity, a traditional freshwater swimming pool can do the job. If you want automation and a softer swim, a saltwater pool is a step up. But if comfort, wellness, and premium water quality are your top priorities, a magnesium swimming pool using Mineral Swim stands out as a smart, modern choice.
Final Thoughts
The right pool system should suit your lifestyle, not complicate it. As more Australians look for healthier and more enjoyable ways to swim at home, magnesium for pool systems like Mineral Swim continue to grow in popularity — and for good reason
