Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023

by Lucas Lee

Today we will talk talk about saltwater pools' essentials, including how they work and why they are better than traditional chlorine systems. We have also reviewed the Jandy AquaPure chlorine generator (automatic) in detail to help you understand whether the product is the best for you or not. If you have a high traffic pool at home, having a chlorine generator is essential.

In the past years, the number of saltwater pools in homes and hotels has increased tremendously. Many people have chosen to switch to chlorine pools because of their safety and low maintenance designs. If you are skeptical about making this switch, this review article is for you. In the end, you will have a better understanding of how saltwater swimming pools work and their significant benefits compared to traditional fresh water swimming pools.

Facts & Myths about Saltwater Swimming Pools


What Is A Saltwater Pool?

Saltwater pools contain chlorine. How do these pools differ from fresh water pools? The pools are virtually the same but differ in the way you introduce chlorine in the pools. In traditional pools, you have to add chlorine manually, which frustrating as it takes time.

Saltwater swimming pools are different. In such pools, the addition of chlorine is a continuous process. While this sounds somewhat tedious, it is not the case as the regeneration of chlorine is automatic.

In the past, people who wanted to create saltwater pools at home had to buy and carry a lot of chlorine home every month. They then had to store chlorine at home, which was an unsafe and somewhat frustrating process. Finally, chlorine does not come cheap, which is another problem. Today, you do not have to store large batches of chlorine at home or spend a lot of time and effort chlorinating your pool manually. The automated process is nowadays straightforward.

Top 7 Best Salt Water Generator Reviews

Top 7 Best Salt Water Generator Reviews
Top 7 Best Salt Water Generator Reviews

Zodiac APURE35 AquaPure Ei Series Electronic Salt Water Chlorine Generator - Link

Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023
Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023
AquaPure is efficient, easy to use, innovative, and therefore worth buying.

A hard-wired 120V/240V device, suitable for pools with a capacity of up to 35,000 gallons

Features :

  • The easy-to-use design has manageable controls.
  • Automatic reverse polarity prevents calcium buildup.
  • Two-piece locking clamp.
  • Secure locking ring.
  • LCD /indicators ease access to information.
  • Has an electronic power pack.
  • Has Salt and flow level indicators.
  • Fits pipe sizes measuring between 1.5 - 2-inches.
  • Required Salt Level: 4,000 ppm (4.0 GPL).
  • SIZE: Power Pack is 10 x 4.5 x 13-inches (L x W x H). The cell weighs 6.5 x 5.5 x 12-inches (L x W x H).
  • WEIGHT: Power Pack weighs 7 pounds, and its electrolytic cell 2 pounds.

Documents :

Overview of Jandy AquaPure Ei:

The Jandy AquaPure Ei is a renowned pool product from Jandy - a reputable company that has manufactured innovative, durable, and user-focused products for years. At Jandy, a team of experts produces durable and power-efficient products such as AquaPure Ei, making it a perfect product to discuss. This model (AquaPure Ei APURE35) features the best technologies that Jandy has to offer.

Jandy is a dominant player in the spa and pool industry with an admirable collection of top-rated brands such as Polaris, Baracuda, Jandy, and Cover-Pools.

What is in the Box of the Jandy AquaPure Ei?

The box contains everything you need.

Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023
Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023

While the ZodiacAquaPure Ei requires little effort to use, it outshines comparable brands in its speed. In less than 15 minutes, you can clean most pools without lifting a finger or breaking a sweat. As such, you are getting an efficient product that excels in terms of speed as well. How does the AquaPure Ei manage such high rates?

Let us check out its system to find out!

The Zodiac AquaPure Ei Sanitization Cycle

For chlorination to occur, you have to add salt to your swimming pool. One large batch of salt is enough to sanitize your pool all year round with the AquaPure Ei. The salt can sustain the process for long because, after use, it reverts to its original form, which then forms the base for the next sanitization cycle of the swimming pool.

Durability

Durability is a concern for most people who are shopping for the best chlorine generators for their pools. Whenever calcium accumulates in such systems, people have to spend a lot of money to get them fixed, which can be frustrating. Unlike other brands, AquaPure Ei has a remedy for this issue. The device has automatic reverse polarity, which reduces calcium buildup by cleaning the system automatically after every few hours. This not only lowers the maintenance costs of your chlorinator but also prolongs its lifespan.

Pentair 520555 IntelliChlor IC40 Salt Chlorine Generator Cell - Link

Popular chlorinator with many satisfied customers.

Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023
Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023

For a detailed analysis check, read out the in-depth review of the IntelliChlor IC40 and IC20

Features :

  • It has a full diagnostic system that can track cell life and communicate the number of remaining hours in real-time. The system also records performance data, including hours of operation, production settings, cell cleaning cycles, chlorine output, water temperature averages, and salt readings.
  • Easy-to-view display and push-button controls for checking cell cleanliness, salt levels, water flow, and sanitizer output.
  • An automatic shut-off safety system prolongs the life of its cell when the water's temperature is low.
  • On-time cycling stops scale and calcium buildup to maximize the life of the cell.
  • Fast communication via IntelliTouch, SunTouch, and EasyTouch pool automation systems.
  • UL 1081 standard certified design for safety.
  • NSF approved product.

Documents for the IntelliChlor IC20 and IC40 :

Intellichlor IC40 System Installation
Intellichlor IC40 System Installation


IntelliChlor Model Specifications :

  • IC40 Cell (P/N H-52-0881): Compatible with swimming pools with a capacity up to 151,000 cubic meters. At its optimal rate, you get 0.45 kilograms of chlorine daily. This cell has ten bi-polar blades, five on either side of a center terminal blade and three terminal blades. Thus, it works in most residential pools.
  • IC20 Cell (P/N H-52-0882): Suitable for swimming pools with a capacity of up to 72,000 liters (20,000 U.S. gallons). The cell produces up to 0.22 kilograms (0.70 pounds) of pure chlorine per day at its optimal rate. It has five bi-polar blades and two terminal blades.
  • IC60 model generates around 2 pounds of chlorine per day.
  • IC15 generates around 0.60 pounds of chlorine per day.
  • PC 100 (P/N H-52-0883): Power Center Kit. Can communicate and share power with the IntelliChlor cell.

Power Center Kit

Power Center Kit
Power Center Kit

Features :

  • Supports the Intellichlor salt generator.
  • Connects to stock pool circulation pumps.
  • Converts A.C. power to low voltage D.C. power.
  • Compatible with Pentair IntelliChlor IC20, IC40, IC60 spa and pool automatic control systems.
  • Supports SunTouch and EasyTouch Non-Salt spa and pool automatic control systems.
  • You can control power directly from your IntelliChlor cell.
  • Size: 6x7x12-inches (length x height x width).

The MANUAL has tons of technical information. Therefore, if you need more information on this system, check this document.

The IntelliChlor Power Center converts A.C. power to low-voltage D.C. current that the product needs to generate chlorine. The power supply works directly from your pool pump's electrical source and therefore works when a pool pump is on. The Power Center entails a transformer, cell connector, fuse, and the A.C. to D.C. wiring.

Hayward Goldline AQR15 AquaRite Electronic Salt Chlorination System for In-Ground Pools - Link

Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023
Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023
NOTE : Hayward discourages people from using the AquaRite to produce bromine.

AquaRite Chlorinator Cells Come in Three Sizes:

  1. Hayward AQR15 (40,000 gallons)
  2. Hayward AQR9 (25,000 gallons)
  3. Hayward AQR3 (15,000 gallons)

Eventually, you will have to place these cells. If you need a high-quality replacement chlorinator T-cell, check out these models:

Replacement Cells :

  1. Hayward T-CELL-15 (40,000 gallons)
  2. Extended Life *Hayward T-Cell-15-LL (40,000 gallons)
  3. Hayward T-CELL-9 (25,000 gallons)
  4. Hayward Goldline T-CELL-3 (15,000 gallons)

*Extended life cells have 25% more chlorine output over their lifetime compared to the famous Hayward T-Cell-15 Turbo Cell.

A teaspoon of salt per gallon is sufficient because salt does not wear out nor evaporates. It is recycled.
Hayward t cell chlorinator saltwater diagram
Hayward t cell chlorinator saltwater diagram


AquaRite Features :

  • Maintains healthy pool water that does not irritate the eyes, unlike typical pools.
  • You will never buy, carry, store, or mix chlorine ever again.
  • The automated chlorinator saves you cash on chlorine.
  • Compatible with most 120V GFCI-protected outlets.
  • Pre-wired, fast electrical connection.

Documents:

  • Download or View the AquaRite series' MANUAL.
  • Download or View the AquaRite series' BROCHURE .

Overview

The Hayward AquaRite series works seamlessly in most swimming pools as it is fast and comes pre-wired for fast (electrical connection), and ready to use. It supports 120V GFCI-protected outlets, which lowers installation costs and time. Unless needed by local code, you can set up AquaRite 120 without hiring a certified electrician.

VIDEO | AquaRite Common Questions

From the MANUAL :

The AquaRite has an automated system for generating chlorine that sanitizes spas and pools. It needs a low concentration of sodium chloride (salt) to work in pools. Thus, you do not taste salt while swimming.

The AquaRite can sanitize your pool automatically by converting salt to free chlorine, which kills algae and bacteria in pools. After killing bacteria, chlorine binds to sodium to form sodium chloride that recirculates in your pool. The only time you will add salt is when you drain your pool or when you are replenishing water due to splashing (not evaporation) and when backwashing.

Learn more on the Hayward site .

Hayward Goldline AQ-TROL-RJ AquaTrol Above-Ground Swimming Pool Salt Chlorination System - Link

Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023
Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023

The Hayward AquaTrol series is one of the best models for use with aboveground pools. While above ground and in-ground pools share multiple fittings, chlorinators are different. You cannot interchange them.

For example, you cannot order any pool heater you come across online and expect it to work in your aboveground pool. You must research in-depth and buy a durable product that is easy to manage, and most importantly, compatible with your pool. Fortunately, at the Chainsaw Journal, we love to research and provide people reviews or guides to help them make the right decisions.

The Aqua-Trol has similar features and performance as the AquaRite (for in-ground pools) do but has a lower chlorine output.

Four Aqua-Trol Models to Choose :
  • Hayward Goldline AQ-TROL-HP
    • Has a 120V/15A linecord/receptacle with a "Straight blade," 2-inch (51mm) rigid PVC piping, or 1½ - 1¼-inch (38-32mm) flexible hose.
  • Hayward Goldline AQ-TROL-HP-TL | Twist Lock
    • TL model: has a 120/20A linecord/receptacle with a "Twist lock" and a 2-inch (51mm) rigid PVC piping or 1½ - 1¼-inch (38-32mm) flexible hose.
  • Hayward AQ-TROL-RJ| Return Jet
    • J. model: has a120V/15A linecord/receptacle with a "Straight blade" and adapters for a return jet mounting.
  • Hayward Goldline AQ-TROL-RJ-TL| Return Jet + Twist Lock
    • It has a 120V/20A linecord/receptacle with a "Twist lock" and adapters for return jet mounting.

Features :

  • Easy and quick installation (30 minutes).
  • Maintains healthy water in pools, which lowers the risk of having dry skin or reddening of the eyes while swimming.
  • Digital salt display with seven diagnostic indicators.
  • A super chlorinate function that you can turn on and off.
  • 24 Hour timer for controlling the filter pump.
  • Supports multiple pumping periods every day.
  • Programmable in 15-minute increments.
  • Manual switch (ON-Auto-OFF).
  • Automated microprocessor-controlled functions.
  • Cleans the cell automatically by reversing polarity periodically.
  • Patented Turbo Cell maximizes its flow rate and efficacy.
  • CUL and U.L. Listed.

Replacement Cells for the AquaTrol Series :

Download or view the MANUAL for the Hayward AquaTrol.

These chlorination cells support a vast range of products, including the AquaRite Pro, Hayward Goldline AquaRite, SwimPure Plus with Controls, SwimPure Plus, Hayward AquaPlus, OmniLogic, and ProLogic automation systems. You can also pair and use it with Polaris and Pentair automation pool controls with good results.

Excerpt from the MANUAL (page 9):

The AquaTrol is contained in a rain-tight enclosure that is suitable for outdoor mounting. The control should be a minimum of 5 ft. (2 meters) horizontal distance (or more if local codes require) from the pool. The control mounts vertically on a flat surface. Because the enclosure also acts as a heat sink (disperses heat from inside the box), it is important not to block the control's four sides. Do not mount the AquaTrol in a panel or tightly enclosed area.


Balance the pool's chemistry BEFORE activating the AquaTrol.
Balance the pool's chemistry BEFORE activating the AquaTrol.

A few more details about the installation :

The cell and flow switch (not used on -R.J. systems) are plumbed in the return line to the pool. Install after (downstream) all the pool equipment (filter, heater, solar, etc.). The kit included in the Aqua Trol provides the necessary plumbing components for either 2″ (51mm) rigid PVC piping installation or 1½ - 1¼" (38-32mm) flexible hose installation.

Intex Krystal Saltwater System with E.C.O. (Electrocatalytic Oxidation) up to 15000-Gallon Above Ground Pools - Link

Go Natural: Store-bought chlorine is an unstable, dangerous, and hazardous chemical.
Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023
Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023

Features :

  • Cleans pool that accommodates up to 15,000 gallons.
  • It needs a filter pump that handles 700-3,000 gallons per hour.
  • 110-120V with GFCI.
  • The maximum pool size of 15,000 gallons (56,800L) with a 110-120V electrical system and a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).
  • Needs a filter pump with a flow rate of 700-3,000 gallons per hour or 2,650 - 11,355L/hour.
  • Chlorine output or around12 gallons per hour in auto-clock cycle.
  • It has a 24-hr auto timer for easier maintenance.
  • Eliminates the need for packaged chlorine, which is unsafe with environmentally friendly and safe pure salt.
  • Has a novel two-stage technology for sanitizing pools.

Intex Compatible Sand Filter Pumps :

  • 3000 GPH | ideal for pools up to 21,200 gallons.
  • 2800 GPH | ideal for pools up to 12,800 gallons.
  • 2100 GPH | ideal for pools up to 9,600 gallons.
  • 1200 GPH | Ideal for above ground pools whose pumps have a flow rate of 1,200 gallons per hour.

You can find more information about this product from the INTEX site. They have an elaborate Question and Answer section.

INTEX ULTRA FRAME POOL SET with Size 16FT X 48IN - Link

Includes : Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump plus Saltwater System. If you want a small above ground pool, this set is the best.

Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023
Best 10 Salt Water Chlorinator Reviews 2023


Includes : Krystal clear filter pump and saltwater system; Ladder; Ground cloth; Debris cover; Maintenance kit; Surface skimmer

This 16 feet x 48-inch Intex Ultra Frame Pool Set is a valuable product with everything that you will need to set up a functional swimming pool at home. Once set up, all you have to do is add water to the pool, and the rest is history. Therefore, if you plan to set up a new swimming pool, consider ordering yours early to take advantage of the long sunny days.

This pool is suitable for your growing family. Kids love it.

Features :

  • You can set it up in less than 45 minutes. Each package has an instructional DVD that will help you to install it quickly.
  • Water capacity: 5,061 gallons (90-percent).
  • The pack has a DVD on its installation and maintenance. You also get heavy-duty PVC sidewalls.
  • Efficient drain plug supports most traditional garden hoses. It eases how you can drain water from the house area or pool.
  • Improved dual-suction outlet boosts the circulation of water, enhancing its clarity and health.

VIDEO | Pool Chemical Safety


Converting a Traditional Pool to a Saltwater Pool is an Easy Two-Step Procedure

Chlorine Generator Install

First, you have to convert the fresh water in your pools to saltwater. Add salt. Unlike what people think, the concentration of saltwater pools does not mirror the water from the sea. Overall, most pools in this niche have a concentration of anywhere between 8.2% and 10% of seawater concentration - the water is exceptionally mild.

Salt, also known as Sodium Chloride (or NaCl), has one chlorine and one part of sodium. The chlorine part is useful in pools.

Chlorine Generator Install

The second step involves setting up a chlorine generator - a pool device that you attach to your pool's filtration system. The chlorine generator works with your pool's filtration system to break down salt into chlorine, which then pumps chlorine into your pool's water. The whole process, better known as electrolysis, is automatic.

Electrolysis occurs whenever salt water passes through your pool's filtration system. The chemical process splits sodium chloride into its native elements - sodium and chloride; the latter is in gaseous form. Chlorine gas dissolves in pool water to chlorinate and sanitize it.

Electrolysis is a reversible process. The chlorine and sodium split in their native forms eventually forms new sodium chloride crystals, which go through the electrolysis process again.

Another thing that happens is that the chloride ions release in water can lower can change its pH depending on the amount. As the level of chlorine in your pool rises, the pH also increases proportionally. To reverse this issue and keep pH at an optimal level, the system releases hydrochloric acid and carbon dioxide in water - both acidic.

How Does A Salt Water Generator Work?


The Bromine Pool: Sodium Bromide vs Sodium Chloride

Saltwater pools do not always contain chlorine. If you use Sodium Bromide instead of Sodium Chloride, you will have Bromide in your pool. Electrolysis happens in the same way as it does with Sodium Chloride. However, instead of sodium and chloride, the native elements released because of the split include sodium and Bromide.

Bromide and chloride pools differ in multiple ways. Unlike chloride that can neutralize odors, Bromide only sanitizes pools. Therefore, you will need an additive that covers other functions of chlorine.

Because of this difference, most homeowners prefer installing saltwater pools with Sodium Chloride as a base. These pools have a low maintenance design as chlorine generators are easier to use. Add salt, plug them in, and let them do the heavy work for you.

What Makes Saltwater Pools Different

First, saltwater swimming pools differ from other types in terms of salt concentration in the water. While this might seem scary to some people, salty water is beneficial as it is 99% less likely to contain bacteria or other microorganisms than fresh water. You will enjoy the following added benefit as well from such a pool:

Health Benefits

You do not need traditional chemicals to reduce the diversity and the assembly patterns of microbiota in your pool. Exposure to such chemicals long term might be harmful, especially if you have sensitive skin. Irritation and allergic reactions are also common.

Health Benefits
Health Benefits

You do not add chlorine as a raw chemical compound in a saltwater pool, which often tends to be harsh. Therefore, you will never worry about your hair drying or your eyes itching in a saltwater pool.

Sanitization and Hygiene

Chlorinated water can oxidize and kill harmful bacteria, algae, and viruses. Thus, they are not only hygienic but also easier to maintain.

Did you know that the chemicals in some swimming pools are five times as dangerous to children compared to passive smoking? This has driven many people to switch from fresh water pools to chlorinated pools to protect kids and future generations' health.

Saltwater Pool Maintenance

Saltwater pools are beneficial in homes, as they require a little effort to maintain. Unlike other types, they clean themselves. Because the chlorine generator converts salts into chlorine in real-time, you do not have to worry about chlorine levels fluctuating to dangerously low or high levels. Thus, you never worry about pool sanitation.

The salinity of water stops the rapid growth of algae. As such, you will never worry about having a green pool if you fail to clean it.

Versatility

The best saltwater systems have versatile designs that work well in most bodies of water. Even though versatile, the pool's size in your position depicts the experience that you will have with one. Hot tubs, for instance, are small "ecosystems" that support most saltwater systems. You can use one in a large commercial pool too.

Saltwater systems do not require a lot of effort or skill to set up. They snap into place in seconds, which is convenient for homeowners. This is among many novel attributes you will love.

Here is a review of the most dependable chlorine generators to date - the AquaPure EI!

Buy on Etsy

Pentair 520555 IntelliChlor IC40 Salt Chlorine Generator Cell (US Version) - Walmart Link

NeXa Chlor 12500 Gallon Pool Salt Chlorine Generator - Pool Timer Included - The Natural - Walmart Link

Hayward W3AQR15 AquaRite Salt Chlorination System for In-Ground Pools up to 40,000 Gallons - Walmart Link

Solaxx CLG10A Saltron Retro Self Cleaning Salt Chlorine Generator with Built In Timer for - Walmart Link

ChlorMaker Salt Water Hot Tub and Spa Chlorine Generator, Drape Over Saltwater System - Walmart Link

Circupool Universal40 Saltwater Chlorinator - Complete System with 40k-Gallon Max Cell - - Walmart Link

BLUE WORKS Saltwater Generator Chlorinator BLH40 for 40K Gallon Pool | 2-Year Full USA - Walmart Link

PC 100 (P/N H-52-0883): Power Center Kit - Walmart Link

Hayward Goldline AQ-TROL-HP-TL | Twist Lock - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

Pentair 520555 IntelliChlor IC40 Salt Chlorine Generator Cell (US Version) - eBay Link

NeXa Chlor 12500 Gallon Pool Salt Chlorine Generator - Pool Timer Included - The Natural - eBay Link

Hayward W3AQR15 AquaRite Salt Chlorination System for In-Ground Pools up to 40,000 Gallons - eBay Link

Solaxx CLG10A Saltron Retro Self Cleaning Salt Chlorine Generator with Built In Timer for - eBay Link

ChlorMaker Salt Water Hot Tub and Spa Chlorine Generator, Drape Over Saltwater System - eBay Link

Circupool Universal40 Saltwater Chlorinator - Complete System with 40k-Gallon Max Cell - - eBay Link

BLUE WORKS Saltwater Generator Chlorinator BLH40 for 40K Gallon Pool | 2-Year Full USA - eBay Link

PC 100 (P/N H-52-0883): Power Center Kit - eBay Link

Hayward Goldline AQ-TROL-HP-TL | Twist Lock - eBay Link

About Lucas Lee

Lucas Lee was raised outside the city of Livermore, in the legendary Bay Area of North California. Lucas considers his family and researches to be most important to him. If he isn’t hanging out with his loved ones, you can almost always find him around his sweet little garden of fruits right in the backyard of his lovely home.

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