Saltwater pools are the most misunderstood pools out there. Let’s be clear off the bat: saltwater pools are chlorine pools.
Salt, with the help of a saltwater generator, is just another type of chlorine (after a little bit of science) a pool owner can use for sanitation.
What Is Salt Used for in Pools?
Salt (scientifically named sodium chloride, or NaCl) is added in saltwater pools to fuel a saltwater chlorine generator. The generator has a cell inside that converts the salt into chlorine using a process called electrolysis.
Generally speaking, salt is used to sanitize your pool without the need to manually add chlorine daily.
You can also add salt to your pool even without a saltwater generator. One of the added benefits of a saltwater pool is the water can feel better. In fact, almost all pool chemicals have some traces of salt. It’s practically impossible to not have salt in your water.
What Type of Salt to Use in Your Pool?
The salt you use should be suitable for swimming pools. While there are certainly different options, the sodium chloride contents should be >99% pure. The purer the salt content, the better the saltwater generator can perform.
It’s recommended to use salt that is food-quality and granulated with no additives to it. These additions can diminish the lifespan of your saltwater generator and can even cause discoloration of plaster finishes. So, no rock salt or salt with anti-caking agents!
Salt specifically labeled for pool use is typically the best and safest option.
>99% pure, certified USP-Grade salt produced specifically for swimming pool chlorine generators.
Solar salt for water softeners is also good to use. Crystals are recommended, but you can also use pellets. Keep in mind, however, pellets will dissolve slower. You will need to make sure they are fully dissolved in the water so brushing will be necessary.
Where to Buy Salt?
Fortunately, salt isn’t too hard to find! It can be purchased at practically any pool store, hardware store, and big-box retailer.
You can also get salt delivered online if there is nothing available locally.
Salt can last forever, so buying in bulk will typically be cheaper.
How Much Salt to Add to Your Pool?
To know how much salt is needed to add in the pool, you need to find out how much is already in there. While most generators can read your salt levels, it’s highly recommended to get a testing kit that measures sodium chloride contents.
Drop test for sodium chloride (salt) pool owners.
Generally, salt levels should be between 3,000-4,000 ppm. This will usually cover most saltwater generator’s recommendations. However, always check your manual for more exact levels.
Adding Salt to the Pool the Right Way
Once you know how much salt is needed, you can use our pool salt calculator to find out how much salt you need to add.
Salt can be added directly into the pool’s deep end. Be prepared to use your pool brush to sweep the bottom to help the granules dissolve quicker.
Salt can take up to 48 hours to fully dissolve and be accurately tested. When adding large quantities, add a little bit at a time and retest.
Make sure the pump is running the entire time. It might even be a good idea to turn off the salt generator, as high concentrations can damage the cell. Refer to your manual for specifics!
What to Do if You Added Too Much Salt?
Too much salt can actually be problematic for your salt cell and other pool equipment. If there is an excess amount of salt, you’ll need to get it down to the recommended levels.
Salt does not evaporate naturally, so it can only be removed from a pool by partially draining and refilling with fresh water.
Enjoy the Saltwater Pool!
By using the right kind of salt, adding it carefully, and testing regularly, you’ll keep your saltwater system running smoothly.
Now go out and enjoy that pool!