Saltwater Pools Buyers Guide

Saltwater pools are becoming more and more popular. Learn the key components that make a saltwater pool different than your basic chlorinated pool.

Pool owners love saltwater pools because they can be very easy to maintain and swimmers love the silky soft feel of the water. Saltwater Systems consistently make small amounts of chlorine so you do not get the high and low chlorine levels that you would with shock and chlorine. It’s a more steady chlorine residual that will consistently prevent cloudy water and algae, and it’s less costly to run.

4 Basic Components to Buying a Saltwater Pool

1

Saltwater Compatible Pool

Saltwater can be corrosive to most above ground pools. You should only use a saltwater system with pools that are specifically built for saltwater use.

The Saltwater 5000, Saltwater 8000, Saltwater LX, Saltwater Aurora, Saltwater Titan and Intrepid are saltwater pools built with special components to resist the corrosion issues associated with Saltwater and are all warrantied for saltwater use. Below you'll find images that display the key components of our saltwater swimming pool models.

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Saltwater Titan Stainless Steel Service Panel

A Stainless Steel Skimmer Panel provides saltwater corrosion protection at the water inlet and outlet wall section. The skimmer and return section on the pool wall is the most important area to guard against rust, as it is a vulnerable area prone to leaks. By incorporating this high-end stainless steel component, the Saltwater Titan, Saltwater 5000, Saltwater 8000, Saltwater LX, and Saltwater Aurora are able to withstand the corrosive nature of saltwater.

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Saltwater Aurora Skimmer & Return View of Resin Composite Wall

The Saltwater Aurora features a 100% Corrosion Resistant Non-Metallic Resin Wall and Resin Frame which provides longevity and durability unlike any other above ground pool on the market today (Stainless steel service panel not required). The entire Resin Composite Wall utilizes a multi-layer reinforced polymer design which proves to be stronger than steel or aluminum.

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Intrepid Oval Skimmer & Return Panel

The Intrepid features a corrosion resistant extruded aluminum wall that is made up of heavy duty 4-1/8” wide extruded aluminum interlocking slats. The Intrepid’s extruded aluminum interlocking wall is stronger than a rolled one-piece pool and adds superior strength. Due to the added strength, the Intrepid is warrantied by the manufacturer for semi inground installation up to 36" into the ground.

2

Pool Filter System

Saltwater can be used with any type of filter system; you can choose from the following 3 options:

It is important to choose a filter system that is large enough for your pool size. Choosing a slightly oversized filter system can make maintaining a pool much easier for a pool owner.

Investing in an oversized filter system is a cost-effective choice.

3

Saltwater Pool Systems

A Saltwater System (also known as a chlorine generator) will convert the dissolved salt in the pool water into chlorine. The electrolytic cell inside the saltwater system will destroy chloramines, which can cause a chlorine odor; red irritated eyes, irritated skin, bleached/green hair and damaged bathing suits.

Different Types of Saltwater Pool Systems

Return Jet Saltwater Systems like the Solaxx Retro Jet RJ and Hayward Aquatrol RJ connect seamlessly to the pool's water jet return fitting, located outside the pool. These systems efficiently convert dissolved salt in the water into chlorine, ensuring soft, silky water for a superior swimming experience. Featuring user-friendly control panels for precise salt level monitoring, Return Jet Saltwater Systems offer a sleek, unobtrusive design. Unlike units that hang inside the pool, these systems eliminate the risk of swimmers accidentally touching or bumping into the equipment, making them a popular choice among pool owners.

Return Jet Unit: Solaxx Retro Jet RJ Saltwater Chlorine Generator

Hard Plumbing Saltwater Systems connect directly to the pool's return line using either PVC or flexible PVC piping. These units feature a flow switch and an intuitive control box with push-button icons and LED indicators for easy operation. The flow switch enables seamless integration with your filter system, offering versatile installation options. Hard Plumbing Saltwater Systems can be installed vertically or horizontally, making them ideal for semi-inground pools. Unlike RJ models, they do not need to be mounted to the return jet, providing greater flexibility in setup.

Hard Plumbing Unit: Solaxx Saltron Reliant Saltwater Chlorine Generator

Drop-in units are designed to hang over the pool wall, immersing directly into the pool water, and come equipped with a low-voltage power supply. Their primary advantage lies in their simple installation, making them ideal for both new and existing pools, as they require no plumbing. Additionally, they are more affordable than Return Jet or Hard Plumbing systems.

Drop In Unit: Solaxx Saltron Retro Salt System

4

Salt For Your Swimming Pool

Any high purity Sodium Chloride Salt will work. Purity greater than 99% is recommended. It is usually available in 40-80lb bags and is the same product as food quality salt or water softener salt. Do not use rock salt; it is not very pure and hard to dissolve.

Pool Gallons	5,000	10,000	15,000	20,000	25,000
Pounds of Salt (3400ppm)	140 lbs.	300 lbs.	440 lbs.	560 lbs.	680 lbs.

Please note the recommended salt level is 3400 ppm (parts per million). We recommend purchasing a saltwater test kit to properly maintain balanced water.