Myth #3: Saltwater Pools Don’t Use Chlorine

Close your eyes and imagine a backyard oasis with silky, ocean-like water and none of that sharp chlorine smell.

Sounds like the perfect saltwater pool, right?

But here’s the surprise: saltwater pools still use chlorine—it’s just generated on-site in a very different way.

In this article, we’ll reveal the real science behind saltwater sanitization, explore whether it’s actually gentler on your skin and eyes, and help you decide if it’s worth the investment. If you’ve ever wondered what makes saltwater pools so appealing (and whether they live up to the hype), we show the advantages.

The Science Behind Saltwater Sanitization

Where the Myth Comes From

Saltwater pools became popular as a “gentler” alternative to standard chlorine pools, leading many people to assume there’s no chlorine involved. The confusion stems from the fact that chlorine is not being added manually as tablets, powder, or liquid; instead, it’s generated on-site.

How It Actually Works

1. Salt in the Water: You add salt directly to the pool, typically to a level of around 3,000–3,500 parts per million—this is much lower salinity than ocean water but enough for the system’s purposes.
2. The Salt Cell: As water flows through a salt chlorine generator (the “salt cell”), an electric current passes through the salted water, converting sodium chloride (NaCl) into free chlorine (Cl₂).
3. Sanitization: The newly created chlorine oxidizes and destroys bacteria, algae, and other contaminants. Over time, the chlorine reverts to salt, and the cycle continues as long as the salinity and electrical current remain within the right parameters.

Comparing Saltwater vs. Traditional Chlorine Pools

The table below outlines key differences between a saltwater system and a manually dosed chlorine pool, showing how each approach affects maintenance, costs, and user experience.

Feature	Saltwater Pool	Traditional Chlorine Pool
Chlorine Source	Generated on-site via salt cell	Added manually (tablets, liquid, or granular)
Initial Setup Cost	Higher (cost of salt cell, may need specialized equipment)	Lower (basic pump, filter, and standard chemical feeder)
Ongoing Chemical Costs	Typically lower (just salt and occasional stabilizer)	Higher (regular purchase of chlorine products)
Water Feel	Often silkier, milder on eyes and skin	Can be harsher if chemistry isn’t well balanced
Maintenance Tasks	Clean the salt cell periodically and monitor salt/pH	Regularly add chlorine products, track usage
pH Management	pH tends to rise, requiring regular pH-lowering agents	pH fluctuation varies but can be more stable
Environmental Factors	Some systems require corrosion-resistant materials	Fewer issues with corrosion but ongoing chemical storage

Key Takeaway: While both systems rely on chlorine for sanitation, the way it’s introduced into the water—and the overall user experience—differs significantly.

Why People Choose Saltwater Pools

1. Softer Water Sensation
   Saltwater is generally more comfortable on skin and eyes. While it’s far less salty than the ocean (usually about 1/10th the salinity), swimmers often notice reduced dryness and irritation compared to some traditional chlorine setups.
2. Reduced Chemical Handling
   Since the salt cell generates chlorine automatically, you don’t have to store or handle large amounts of chlorine products. This can be a major plus for people concerned about chemical fumes or spills.
3. Stable Sanitizer Levels
   Once the salt system is dialed in, chlorine levels can be more consistent. Large spikes or drops in sanitizer are less common, which helps the pool remain at a steady, comfortable equilibrium.

Potential Downsides to Consider

1. Higher Initial Cost
   A salt chlorine generator can be a noticeable investment, plus any specialized plumbing or control panels that come with it. This cost often pays off in the long run, but it’s still a factor for new installations.
2. pH Tends to Climb
   The electrolysis process that converts salt to chlorine can cause the pool’s pH to rise over time. As a result, you may need to add acid more frequently to keep the pH in the ideal range (7.2–7.8).
3. Salt Cell Maintenance
   Over time, scale and minerals can build up on the cell plates, reducing efficiency. You’ll need to clean or replace the cell periodically—how often depends on water hardness, usage, and manufacturer recommendations.
4. Corrosion Risks
   Salt can be more corrosive to certain pool parts or fixtures, especially if they aren’t designed with saltwater in mind. Metal railings, heat exchangers, and other components may require extra care or salt-compatible materials.

Best Practices for Saltwater Pool Care

Monitoring salinity levels is crucial for a well-maintained saltwater pool. Pay close attention to your pool’s salt concentration, as most generators include built-in sensors to alert you when levels are too low or too high.

Regular water testing remains essential, even though the system produces chlorine automatically. Schedule weekly or bi-weekly checks for free chlorine, pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and stabilizer (cyanuric acid) to ensure overall water balance and safety.

Balancing pH and alkalinity is another key aspect of saltwater pool maintenance. Because the electrolysis process can cause pH to drift upward, keep pH-lowering chemicals like muriatic acid on hand. Maintaining proper alkalinity helps buffer pH changes and minimizes the need for frequent adjustments.

Cleaning the salt cell is also important, as scale buildup reduces chlorine production. Many manufacturers provide instructions for removing and soaking the cell in a mild acid solution, a process often recommended every three to six months to keep the system running efficiently.

Finally, pay attention to any metal components or equipment in or around your pool. Use corrosion-resistant materials or protective coatings if possible, and inspect these areas regularly to catch early signs of rust or wear.

Debunking the “No Chlorine” Myth

A saltwater pool doesn’t eliminate chlorine from the equation; it simply makes the process of chlorination more automated. The water can still become imbalanced or have insufficient chlorine if the salt cell malfunctions, salt levels drop, or the pH drifts out of range. Additionally, shocking a saltwater pool (using either granular chlorine or a non-chlorine shock) may still be necessary under heavy bather loads or during algae outbreaks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a salt pool taste like the ocean?

No. Saltwater pools contain about 3,000 ppm of salt, whereas ocean water averages around 35,000 ppm—over ten times saltier.

Do I still need cyanuric acid (CYA) in a saltwater pool?

Yes, unless your generator or specific location dictates otherwise. CYA helps protect the chlorine from being broken down by UV rays, though saltwater pools often require less than heavily-chlorinated traditional pools.

How long does a salt cell last?

A well-maintained cell can last anywhere from 3 to 7 years, depending on usage, water chemistry, and overall care.

Final Thoughts

The notion that saltwater pools have zero chlorine is one of the most persistent misunderstandings in modern pool care. By generating their own chlorine from dissolved salt, these systems still rely on sanitizer chemistry to keep the water safe. The difference is a smoother, often less hands-on experience for pool owners. Whether a saltwater pool is right for you depends on your budget, willingness to handle a bit of extra equipment maintenance, and preference for that distinctive water feel. With the proper balance of salt, pH, and diligent testing, a saltwater pool can offer the best of both worlds: gentler water on your skin and eyes, and effective sanitization to protect swimmers all season long.