by Tara Knudson

Created on: June 04, 2008   Last Updated: September 04, 2008

What's all the fuss about saltwater pools and spas? Well, it's about your health, your wallet, your playtime and your crystal-clear, sweet-smelling pool.

Recent studies in Europe have shown that consistent exposure to chlorine in public pools, home pools and spas is linked to respiratory problems, especially in children. Incidence of asthma, infections and other problems related to respiration were higher than the norm.

Increases in cancers and chronic illnesses are just a couple of the other sickening symptoms that have been found in swimming instructors and pool cleaners who are in and around pools daily. Professional swimmers have been studied too, and there have been many cases where the enamel has been eaten from their teeth, leaving their biters brittle, and painfully sensitive.

If the health risks aren't reason enough, think about how nice it would be to get out of the pool and not have that bleach smell clinging to your hair and body, towels and swimwear? Saltwater pools have no odor, and don't smell at all like the ocean.

In fact, they don't taste like the ocean, either. Saltwater pools have no flavor, and no smell, and no known health dangers.

Taking a dip in a cloudy pool is never a fun time, but with a pool that gets its disinfectant from salt the water is always crystal clear. You can see to the bottom, and are invited to climb, hop or dive in, without having to worry about possible alligators lurking in the yellowy depths.

Whatever your position on the health risks of exposure to chlorine while splashing in your backyard, you probably agree that after a dip in your bleached bath your skin is a bit itchy and dry, and you need to have a freshwater shower and a good dose of moisturizer to get back into your supple, comfortable skin. The mineral content of saltwater pools actually soothes and nurtures your body's largest organ, leaving it softer and healthier.

If you're thinking of upgrading or installing your first pool or spa, saltwater is the way to go. Its more affordable to operate, and less effort too, and the benefits to your friends and families health and pleasure will pay you back in bucketfuls.

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