How to Calculate Pool Salt Needed
If you have a saltwater pool, keeping the salinity level within the ideal range is critical for your salt chlorine generator (salt cell) to produce enough chlorine to keep the water clean and clear. This calculator uses standard fluid density mathematics to determine exactly how many pounds (and bags) of salt you need to add.
- Volume = Total gallons of water in your pool.
- 8.33 = The approximate weight of one gallon of water in pounds.
- Target ppm = Your desired salinity level (usually 3,200 ppm).
- Current ppm = Your pool's current salinity based on a test strip or drop test.
Adding salt should be done gradually. It's always better to add slightly less salt than the calculator recommends, allow it to dissolve and circulate for 24 hours, re-test the water, and then add more if necessary. Taking salt out of a pool is much harder than putting it in!
| Salt Cell Brand / Type | Ideal Target (ppm) | Operating Range (ppm) |
|---|---|---|
| Hayward / AquaRite | 3,200 ppm | 2,700 - 3,400 ppm |
| Pentair / AquaCell | 3,400 ppm | 2,800 - 4,500 ppm |
| Jandy / IntelliChlor | 3,600 ppm | 3,000 - 4,000 ppm |
| Intex (Above Ground) | 3,000 ppm | 2,500 - 3,500 ppm |
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I add too much salt?
If your salinity gets too high (typically over 4,000 ppm), your salt cell may shut down to protect itself from over-current, meaning it will stop producing chlorine. High salt levels can also cause the water to taste unpleasantly salty and accelerate corrosion on metal pool fixtures. The only way to lower salinity is to drain some water from the pool and replace it with fresh water.
How long does pool salt take to dissolve?
High-purity pool salt usually dissolves within 24 hours. To speed up the process, brush the salt around the bottom of the pool using your pool brush, and leave your pump running continuously until the salt is fully dissolved. Do not turn on the salt chlorinator generator until the salt has fully dissolved to prevent damage to the cell.
Can I use water softener salt instead of pool salt?
You should use high-purity (99% or higher) evaporated, non-iodized sodium chloride (NaCl) specifically labeled as "Pool Salt." Avoid using rock salt, salt with anti-caking agents, or water softener pellets, as they can contain impurities that will stain your pool surfaces or damage your generator.