Salt electrolysis or chlorine: which to choose?

Updated June 2026 · 5 min read

Every pool needs a treatment to keep its water clear and disinfected. The two most widespread solutions are classic chlorine and salt electrolysis, complemented by additional treatments such as UV. Let's look at their differences.

Classic chlorine

This is the best-known method: you add chlorine (as tablets, pucks or liquid) which disinfects the water and eliminates bacteria and algae.

• Effective and inexpensive to buy.
• Easy to set up on any pool.
• Downside: handling and storing the products, the characteristic smell, and stinging eyes if the dosage isn't kept up.

Salt electrolysis

Here you add salt to the water (in a small amount, around 3 to 5 g/l, far less than seawater). A device, the salt chlorinator, turns this salt into natural chlorine directly in the water, then that chlorine recombines into salt: an almost self-sustaining cycle.

• Bathing comfort: water that's gentle on the skin and eyes, with no smell.
• Little handling: no more constantly adding tablets.
• Economical in use once the salt chlorinator is installed.
• Downside: the upfront investment (the device), and salt isn't compatible with every material, it's for instance not recommended for a stainless-steel pool.

What about UV treatment?

Treatment by UV or active oxidation often complements another treatment: a lamp destroys micro-organisms as the water passes through, which greatly reduces the need for chemicals. It's the preferred solution when you want to keep chlorine to an absolute minimum, for example on a stainless-steel pool.

So, which one to choose?

For most family pools, salt electrolysis offers the best day-to-day comfort and stays economical over time. Chlorine keeps its appeal for a tight starting budget or occasional use. And UV attracts those who want water that's as natural as possible. The right choice also depends on the type of pool and finish, we'll advise you based on your pool.