How Do I Maintain a Saltwater Pool?Updated 2 months ago

Saltwater pools are a favourite for many Aussie households thanks to their softer feel and lower chlorine smells. But like any pool, they need regular care to keep the water balanced and the system running smoothly. Here’s how to maintain your saltwater pool for hassle-free swimming all year round.

1. Keep Your Salt Cell in Top Shape

The salt chlorinator (salt cell) is the heart of your pool—keep it efficient with these tips:

• Clean the cell every 3–6 months: Soak it in some Water TechniX Salt Cell Cleaning Solution to dissolve calcium scale. Avoid abrasive tools!

• Check for damage: Inspect plates for corrosion or buildup. Replace cells every 3–5 years (or as per manufacturer guidelines).

• Ensure proper water flow: Low flow triggers shutdowns. Clean skimmer baskets and pump filters regularly.

• Monitor chlorine output: Adjust the chlorinator’s output level seasonally (higher in summer, lower in winter).

Pro tip: After heavy rain or backwashing, check salt levels—diluted water can reduce chlorine production.

2. Balance Salt Levels

Salt doesn’t get used up, but levels can drop due to splash-out, backwashing, or rain.

• Ideal range:  Check your chlorinator’s manual for the ideal range.

• Test monthly: Use salt test strips or a digital meter.

• Topping up: Add pool-grade salt (never table salt!) directly to the pool. Brush to dissolve.

• Diluting: If salt is too high, partially drain and refill with fresh water.

3. Maintain Water Balance

Saltwater pools still need chemical checks:

• pH (7.2–7.8): Salt cells naturally raise pH. Use pH decreaser (sodium bisulfate) weekly. (Water TechniX Dry Acid)

• Alkalinity (80–120 ppm): Stabilises pH. Adjust with Water TechniX Alkalinity Up if needed.

• Cyanuric Acid (30–50 ppm): Protects chlorine from Australia’s harsh UV rays. Top up stabiliser annually. (Water TechniX Stabiliser)

• Calcium Hardness (200–300 ppm): Prevents corrosion or scaling. Adjust with calcium up or calcium down

Test water weekly and after heavy use or storms.

4. Troubleshoot Common Issues

• Low chlorine despite correct salt levels:

  • Clean the salt cell.

  • Check stabiliser (CYA) levels.

  • Ensure the chlorinator is running long enough (8–12 hours daily in summer).

• Salt cell warning lights:

  • Low salt: Test and top up.

  • High salt: Dilute pool water.

  • Flow issues: Clean filters or check pump.

• Corrosion or scaling:

  • Rebalance pH and calcium hardness.

  • Install a sacrificial anode to protect metal fittings.

5. Seasonal Maintenance for Aussie Climates

• Summer: Run the chlorinator longer, clean the cell monthly, and check salt levels fortnightly.

• Winter: Reduce chlorinator output, but don’t turn it off completely. Cover the pool to minimise debris.

• After storms: Test salt and chemical balance—runoff can dilute or contaminate water.

Save Time with Smart Habits

• Backwash sand/DE filters when pressure rises 10–15 kPa above normal.

• Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation and debris. (Daisy pool covers and rollers)

• Switch to winter mode if closing the pool: Balance chemicals, clean the cell, and run the pump weekly.

Need a Saltwater Chlorinator or Supplies?

Browse our Saltwater Chlorinators Collection for cells, chlorinators and other chlorinator-related tools. Pair with a quality filter and clarifier for crystal-clear water.

Final Tip: Saltwater pools are low-maintenance, not no-maintenance! Stay on top of weekly checks, and you’ll enjoy that “just right” swim all year.