A saltwater pool is still a chlorine pool. A salt chlorine generator, or salt cell, turns dissolved salt into chlorine as water passes through it. The difference is how the chlorine gets into the water, and that changes your maintenance routine.
How each system works
Traditional chlorine: you add chlorine yourself, usually as slow-dissolving tablets or pucks in a floater, skimmer or feeder, plus regular shock.
Saltwater: you add pool salt to a target level, and the salt cell produces chlorine automatically while the pump runs. Many systems work at about 2,700–3,400 ppm, and some low-salt models run at roughly 1,200–1,800 ppm. That is far less salty than ocean water.
Day-to-day maintenance
| Chlorine | Saltwater | |
|---|---|---|
| Adding sanitizer | Weekly tablets and shock | Automatic while the pump runs |
| Testing | Chlorine, pH, alkalinity | Same, plus salt level |
| pH | Needs regular adjustment | Tends to rise, so check often |
| Equipment care | Feeder or floater | Clean and inspect the salt cell; replace it at end of life |
Pros and cons
Saltwater: steadier chlorine levels, no tablets to store, and many swimmers find the water feels softer. On the other hand, the upfront equipment cost is higher, salt cells wear out and must be replaced, and salt can be hard on some materials if levels or chemistry drift.
Chlorine: lower upfront cost and simple equipment. On the other hand, you handle and store chemicals, and chlorine levels swing more between top-ups.
Seasonal notes for Ontario
- Many salt cells shut off in cold water to protect themselves, so early in the season you may need to supplement with chlorine.
- Inspect the cell at opening and clean it if scale has formed.
- Follow the manufacturer’s winterizing steps for the cell at closing.
Thinking of switching?
Our store carries salt systems such as Pentair IntelliChlor, Hayward AquaRite and Jandy TruClear and AquaPure. Our technicians can install and service them. See equipment service or visit our retail store.
Questions about salt systems? Request a quote or call 416-449-1450.
