If you’re building a pool in Sydney, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing the right sanitisation system. The mineral pool vs salt water pool debate comes up constantly — and then there’s traditional chlorine to consider as well. Each system keeps your water clean, but the differences in comfort, running costs and long-term maintenance are significant.
This guide breaks down all three options so you can make a confident, informed choice for your family.
What Are the Three Main Pool Sanitisation Systems?
Every swimming pool needs a way to keep the water safe and free from bacteria, algae and other nasties. In Australia, there are three main systems that homeowners choose from:
- Mineral pools — use natural minerals like magnesium and potassium chloride to sanitise the water, with only a trace amount of chlorine produced as a by-product
- Salt water pools — use a salt chlorinator to convert dissolved salt into chlorine through electrolysis
- Chlorine pools — rely on manually added chlorine (liquid, granules or tablets) to disinfect the water
All three systems ultimately use some form of chlorine to kill bacteria. The key difference is how that chlorine is produced, how much of it ends up in your water, and what else is in the mix. Those differences have a real impact on how the water feels, what it costs to run and how much upkeep is involved.
Mineral Pools — How They Work and Why They’re Different
Mineral pool systems work by passing water through a cell that releases natural minerals — typically magnesium chloride and potassium chloride — into your pool. These minerals do the heavy lifting when it comes to sanitisation, while a very low level of chlorine is generated as a secondary process.
The result is water that feels noticeably softer and smoother on your skin. If you’ve ever swum in a mineral pool, you’ll know the difference immediately — crystal clear water with no smell, no eye irritation and a silky feel that’s often described as like swimming in distilled water.
Health and comfort benefits
- Skin-friendly — magnesium is known for its soothing properties and is far gentler than salt or chlorine on sensitive skin
- No red eyes — the dramatically lower chlorine levels mean no stinging or irritation
- No chemical smell — forget that harsh “pool smell” that clings to your hair and swimwear
- Hair and swimwear friendly — mineral water won’t dry out your hair or fade your swimmers the way chlorine and salt can
Running costs
Mineral systems are remarkably energy efficient. Because the mineral cell operates at a lower voltage than a traditional salt chlorinator, power consumption drops significantly. Some homeowners report savings of up to 90% on their pool-related power bills compared to conventional systems.
The minerals themselves need topping up periodically, but the cost is modest and the intervals are longer than you might expect.
Why mineral pools are taking off in Australia
Mineral pools have seen a surge in popularity across Australia in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. As homeowners become more conscious of chemical use, energy consumption and the environmental footprint of their homes, mineral systems tick every box. Industry trends point to lower-chemical, energy-efficient pool technology as one of the fastest-growing segments in Australian pool construction — and mineral pools are leading that shift.
Maintenance
Mineral pools are among the easiest to maintain. The water chemistry stays more stable than salt or chlorine pools, meaning fewer adjustments and less testing. The mineral cell typically lasts longer than a salt cell too, since it operates under less stress. For a deeper look at pool equipment and upkeep essentials, check out our guide to pool maintenance equipment.
Salt Water Pools — Pros and Cons
Salt water pools have been the popular choice in Australian backyards for decades. A salt chlorinator converts dissolved salt (sodium chloride) into chlorine through a process called electrolysis. The chlorine sanitises the water, then reverts back to salt, creating a continuous cycle.
Pros
- Lower chlorine levels than manual dosing — salt chlorinators produce a steady, moderate level of chlorine rather than the peaks and troughs of manual dosing
- Less hands-on than chlorine pools — once set up, the system largely runs itself
- Familiar technology — salt chlorinators are widely available and most pool technicians are experienced with them
- Softer than heavily chlorinated water — the water feels somewhat smoother than a traditionally chlorinated pool
Cons
- Still produces chlorine — salt water pools are essentially chlorine pools with an automated delivery system, so you may still experience some eye irritation and chemical smell
- Corrosive to certain materials — salt can damage natural stone coping, certain metals and some pool equipment over time
- Salt cell replacement — the chlorinator cell typically needs replacing every 5–7 years, which can cost $200–$900 depending on the model
- Higher energy use — salt chlorinators draw more power than mineral systems
- Can affect nearby gardens — splash-out and backwash water with high salt content can damage plants and lawn areas around your pool
Chlorine Pools — Pros and Cons
Traditional chlorine pools rely on manually adding chlorine — whether as liquid, granules or tablets — to keep the water sanitised. This is the oldest and most straightforward method of pool sanitation.
Pros
- Lowest upfront cost — no chlorinator or mineral cell to purchase and install
- Simple technology — no electronic components that can fail
- Widely understood — every pool shop stocks chlorine products and can advise on dosing
Cons
- Most maintenance-intensive — you need to test and dose regularly, often multiple times per week in summer
- Harshest on skin and eyes — chlorine levels fluctuate with manual dosing, and the peaks can cause significant irritation
- Strong chemical smell — the “pool smell” many people associate with swimming is actually chloramines, formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter
- Fades swimwear and dries hair — prolonged exposure to chlorine is tough on fabrics and hair
- Chemical storage — you’ll need to safely store chlorine products at home, which can be hazardous
- Ongoing chemical costs — while there’s no equipment to replace, the cost of chlorine products adds up over the year
Mineral Pool vs Salt Water Pool vs Chlorine: Head-to-Head Comparison
Here’s how the three systems stack up across the factors that matter most to Sydney homeowners:
| Factor | Mineral Pool | Salt Water Pool | Chlorine Pool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin & eye comfort | Excellent — silky, no irritation | Good — softer than chlorine but some irritation possible | Poor — frequent irritation, dryness |
| Smell | None | Mild chlorine smell | Strong chlorine smell |
| Running costs | Lowest — up to 90% energy savings | Moderate | Moderate to high (ongoing chemical costs) |
| Maintenance effort | Low — stable water chemistry | Low to moderate | High — regular testing and dosing |
| Environmental impact | Low — fewer chemicals, less energy | Moderate — salt can affect gardens and stonework | Higher — chemical production, storage and disposal |
| Equipment upfront cost | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| Cell/equipment lifespan | Longer — lower operating stress | 5–7 years for salt cell | No cell — but pump and filter work harder |
| Effect on hair & swimwear | Minimal | Some fading and dryness | Significant fading and dryness |
Which System Is Right for Your Family?
The best sanitisation system depends on your priorities, but here’s a quick guide:
Choose a mineral pool if:
- Comfort is a top priority — you want water that feels amazing and won’t irritate skin or eyes
- You want the lowest running costs and minimal maintenance
- You have family members with sensitive skin, eczema or allergies
- You care about reducing chemical use and environmental impact
- You want the best long-term value from your investment
Choose a salt water pool if:
- You want automated sanitisation without manual dosing
- You’re comfortable with moderate chlorine levels in the water
- Your pool surrounds use salt-resistant materials
Choose a chlorine pool if:
- Upfront budget is your primary concern
- You don’t mind hands-on, regular maintenance
- You’re building a pool you plan to upgrade later
For most Sydney families building a new pool, mineral is the standout choice. It delivers the best swimming experience, the lowest running costs and the least maintenance — which means more time enjoying your pool and less time looking after it.
Why Mr Pools Includes Mineral as Standard
At Mr Pools, we believe every family deserves the best possible swimming experience. That’s why every custom pool we build comes with a mineral pool system as a standard inclusion — not a paid upgrade.
We’ve seen the difference mineral water makes firsthand across hundreds of projects. Our clients tell us they can feel it the moment they step in — crystal clear water with no smell, no stinging eyes and a softness that makes every swim feel like a retreat.
Combined with energy savings of up to 90% on pool-related power bills, it’s an upgrade that pays for itself while delivering a superior experience every single day.
As part of the Aussie family-owned Conrina Group with over three decades of experience, we know what works for Sydney homes. Whether you’re looking at inground pools, a custom spa or a complete backyard transformation, mineral water comes standard with every build.
Want to learn more about what a mineral pool could look like in your backyard? Book your free pool consultation now and chat with one of our expert pool builders about the best options for your home.