Pool expert warns households to understand maintenance costs and benefits when choosing pool sanitation systems
Announcement posted by Invigorate PR 15 Apr 2026
Australia's love affair with backyard swimming pools continues to surge, but experts say many homeowners are jumping in without understanding the major differences between the types of water systems available and their ongoing cost and maintenance.
According to Brett Blair, head of the pool care division at Jim's Pool Care, Australians are installing around 20,000 to 25,000 new swimming pools every year, bringing the total number of backyard pools across the country to approximately more than 1.4 million pools.
Yet many pool owners are surprised to learn that the water system they choose can significantly affect installation costs, chemical use and long-term maintenance.
"People spend tens of thousands installing a pool but often don't realise the type of water system they choose will determine how much time and money they spend maintaining it," Blair said.
"Not all pools are created equal."
Chlorine pools
Blair said the easiest option for a backyard pool is the traditional chlorine pool. They remain the most affordable and straightforward system, however are very manually intensive and have dropped away significantly since the introduction of Salt Water Chlorinated Systems.
"These pools rely on liquid chlorine, tablets or granules to disinfect the water and prevent bacteria and algae growth," Blair said.
However, chlorine systems require regular chemical balancing and monitoring.
"They're effective but they do need more hands-on management," Blair said.
"You'll be testing water more frequently and adding chemicals regularly."
Salt water pools
Blair said saltwater pools are Australia's most common system. They have become the most popular system in Australian homes, but are still chlorine pools.
"These pools use a salt chlorinator that converts salt into chlorine automatically, meaning the pool equipment system does all the heavy lifting on a daily basis," he said.
"Salt pools are very popular because they're easier to manage day-to-day. They still produce chlorine, but it's done automatically by the system rather than constantly adding chemicals."
Saltwater systems typically cost more upfront because of the chlorinator equipment, but they often require less manual chemical dosing. They do require a minimum level of salt in the pool water also.
"They're a good balance between convenience and cost and the water also tends to feel softer on the skin and eyes," he added.
"While the initial outlay can put people off getting this type of pool water system, the ongoing cost and maintenance is better for the hip pocket and people's lifestyles."
Biggest trends in pools: Magnesium and Mineral Pools
Blair said the biggest trend he is seeing is the growth of mineral and magnesium pool water systems. He said this is the luxury trend that is growing across the country in pools, but is becoming more affordable and minerals can have many benefits. Across the country you are seeing a proliferation of day spas using these minerals in their health and beauty programs, but pool owners can have these benefits right at home.
"These pools use mineral blends such as magnesium, potassium and sodium which offer a range of health benefits" he said.
"Many people say mineral pools feel like swimming in a luxury spa. The water is noticeably softer and gentler on skin, hair and eyes. The minerals and sodium help the chlorinator produce and the sanitiser is still ultimately chlorine.
"While these pool water systems offer benefits they usually come with higher installation and maintenance costs, but owners who have taken the step up are usually very positive about the bathing experience.
"The minerals themselves need to be replenished periodically and that means ongoing costs can be higher compared with traditional systems."
The most advanced systems use the least chemicals
At the high end of the market are advanced sanitation technologies including ionisers, UV and ozone systems, which dramatically reduce the need for chemicals and can run the minimum levels of chlorine based on Australian Standards. These systems use ultraviolet light or ozone gas to destroy bacteria and contaminants.
"These systems have come along way and are now incredibly effective in most climates and can reduce chemical use," Blair said.
"However, the technology behind them is sophisticated and the equipment costs are much higher."
"The interesting thing is that the less chemical you want in your pool, the more advanced the technology you need to keep the water clean and safe.
"That's why the newest low-chemical systems are also the most expensive."
The real cost of different pool systems
Blair said installation costs and ongoing maintenance vary widely depending on the system chosen.
"Traditional chlorine pools are generally the cheapest to install and operate, but require the most manual chemical balancing. Saltwater pools cost more upfront but reduce day-to-day chemical handling and maintenance," he said.
"Mineral and magnesium pools deliver a premium swimming experience but involve higher equipment and mineral replacement costs.
"Advanced ioniser, UV or ozone systems require sophisticated equipment and are typically found in high-end pools due to their installation costs, but are penetrating more and more domestic homes."
Blair emphasised that the best system ultimately comes down to lifestyle and budget.
"If you want something affordable and simple, I would recommend at a minimum a salt system, as they are great but if you if you want softer water and a luxury swimming experience with fewer chemicals, you'll probably be looking at mineral or advanced systems," he said.
Australia's pool boom continues
With more than 1.4 million pools already across the country and tens of thousands more being installed every year, Blair said understanding the differences between water systems is becoming increasingly important.
"A swimming pool is one of the best lifestyle investments Australians make," he said.
"However, choosing the right water system can make the difference between a pool that's easy to maintain and one that becomes a constant headache."
This year, Jim's Pool Care celebrated surpassing 160 mobile pool shops across Australia. With a national franchise network experiencing strong growth, the division has its sights set on 200 locations by 2027.
About Jim's Pool Care
Jim's Pool Care is one of Australia's largest and most trusted pool service networks, with more than 160 locally owned franchise businesses operating nationwide. The company provides professional mobile pool cleaning, maintenance, equipment supply and installation services to residential and commercial clients. Backed by the trusted Jim's Group, Jim's Pool Care is committed to safety, reliability and exceptional customer service, helping Australians enjoy clean, safe and sparkling pools all year round. With a strong focus on training, support and innovation, Jim's Pool Care continues to set the industry standard for quality and customer satisfaction.
About Jim's Group
Jim's Group was founded by Jim Penman in 1989 and now has some 5,700 franchisees in more than 50 divisions. It is the largest franchise chain in the Southern Hemisphere.