Salt electrolysis for swimming pools: tips for installation and maintenance

Salt electrolysis is one of the most effective and environmentally friendly methods of swimming pool water treatment. This system generates chlorine naturally from the salt dissolved in the water, ensuring continuous disinfection, reducing the use of chemicals and improving the swimming experience.

Here are some tips on how to install a salt chlorinator correctly and get the most out of it during the swimming season.

What is salt electrolysis and why choose it?

Salt electrolysis for swimming pools is a process by which salt is transformed into active chlorine through an electrolytic cell, continuously disinfecting the water.

Advantages of salt chlorine:

• Less eye and skin irritation.
• Softer and more pleasant to the touch water.
• Less manual maintenance
• Long-term chemical savings.

Tips for the correct installation of a salt chlorinator

Choose the right salt chlorinator

• Make sure the equipment is compatible with the volume of water in your pool.
• Check the technical specifications, such as chlorine output per hour and recommended salinity range.

Correct location of the system

• Install the salt chlorinator after the filter and before the heat pump, if you have one.
• Locate the electrolytic cell in an accessible place for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Preparing the pool water

Before starting the system:

• Make sure the water is clean and chemical levels are balanced:
  • pH: 7.2 – 7.6
  • Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm
  • Calcium hardness: 200 – 400 ppm
• Add pool-specific salt (3 to 6 g/L), distributing it evenly. Allow to dissolve completely before switching on the equipment.

Making electrical connections in a safe way

• Hire a professional electrician to comply with regulations and ensure safe installation (GFCI protection).
• Some systems require connection to a separate electrical panel.

Initial system test

• Once installed, turn the system on and check for leaks or faulty connections.
• Adjust chlorine production according to pool volume and usage conditions.

How to properly operate and maintain a salt electrolysis system

Salt level control

• Periodically check the salt level with a specific salt level meter.
• Add salt only if it is below the recommended value.
• Avoid overdoing it, as too much salt can damage the components.

pH and free chlorine control

• Although the system generates chlorine automatically, it is essential to keep the pH between 7.2 and 7.6 .
  Measure the free chlorine level to ensure it is between 1 and 3 ppm.

Cleaning of the electrolytic cell

• Check the cell every 3-6 months.
• If calcium deposits are present, soak in a mixture of water and acid (according to manufacturer’s instructions).

Optimise chlorine production

• Adjust the production according to the water temperature and frequency of use of the pool.
• Use a pool cover to reduce chlorine loss through evaporation and UV radiation.

Take care of your system during the winter

• If you do not use the pool during the cold months, turn off the electrolysis system.
• Make sure the cell is clean and dry to avoid freeze damage.

Preventing the entry of contaminants

• Reduce the input of oils, sunscreens and organic residues, as they can increase the workload on the disinfection system.

Benefits of using salt electrolysis in swimming pools

• Healthier and softer water for skin and eyes.
• Continuous disinfection without the need to manually add chlorine
• More convenient and automatic maintenance
• Long-term cost savings in chemicals
• A more environmentally friendly system

Is salt electrolysis suitable for your pool?

If you are looking for a more comfortable, natural and long-lasting solution to disinfect your pool, the salt chlorination system is a highly recommended option. At Gre we have salt chlorinators adapted to different types and sizes of pools, as well as accessories for installation and maintenance.