A Highlife Aria salt water hot tub sits on a stone patio with easy access provided by side steps. The hot tub is surrounded by plants.

What to Know About Salt Water Hot Tubs

The ocean is a well-loved place for good reason. The sun, sand, and salt water combine to provide an unforgettable experience for people of all ages. Now, you can bring that salt water to your backyard in the form of a salt water hot tub. The benefits of salt water systems include more natural-feeling water, fewer chemicals used, and simpler water care.

A group of four friends enjoying a relaxing soak in salt water hot tub, laughing and unwinding as they take in the stunning ocean view in the background.

Does a Saltwater System Make a Chemical-Free Hot Tub?

To prevent contamination of water in hot tubs, owners typically add a class of chemicals called halogens that include chlorine, bromine, and iodine. When mixed with water, halogens form weak acids that are very effective at killing bacteria and fighting viruses. They work as oxidizers that burn away organic compounds. However, these acids can also irritate the eyes and skin, which is why many people long for a chemical-free hot tub water care system.

A group of six people relaxes in a Hot Spring Spas hot tub on a patio overlooking a city at dusk.

Saltwater Hot Tubs Vs. Chlorine: Which is Right For Your Family?

When buying a new hot tub, choosing a water care system that eliminates harmful bacteria and that is easy to maintain is vital. Learn how to decide whether a traditional chlorine purification system or a salt water system makes the most sense for your lifestyle.

A luxurious Hot Spring spa with a heat-retaining shell, filled with crystal-clear water, featuring ergonomic seating and multiple hydrotherapy jets.

What Are Hot Tub Shells Made Of?

Learning more about what your hot tub shells are made of can give you a better idea about which hot tub would be best suited for your needs.