💧 Salt Systems for Pools & Spas: Benefits, Maintenance & FAQs
Saltwater systems have become one of the most popular upgrades for pool and spa owners — especially among our Arctic Spa customers. From softer water and reduced chemical use to easier maintenance and long-term savings, salt systems offer a modern, low-effort approach to water care.
✅ Why Choose a Salt System?
🌊 Silky, Softer Water
Salt naturally softens water, leaving it gentle on the skin, eyes, and swimsuits. With lower levels of harsh chemicals:
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You’ll avoid dry skin and red eyes
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Hair stays soft and natural
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No overpowering “pool smell”
💡 Saltwater pools contain about 3,000 ppm of salt — just 1/10 the salt of the ocean and even less than a teardrop!
💸 Save Time and Money
While the initial investment is higher, salt systems pay off quickly:
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Reduced need for chlorine tablets or liquid
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Lower long-term chemical costs
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Fewer trips to the store and fewer water issues
📉 TIME = MONEY — and salt systems save both.
🧼 Set It and Forget It
Going on vacation? No problem. A properly balanced salt system continues to produce chlorine while you're away — keeping the water sanitized even during extended absences.
🧪 Tip: Have someone test your water weekly if you’ll be away for long periods.
🔧 Salt System Maintenance
For Pools
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Salt Levels: Maintain between 2,700 – 3,400 ppm
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Cell Cleaning: Use a 3:1 water-to-muriatic acid mix or cell cleaner annually
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Check for Calcium Buildup: Scale reduces efficiency
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Balance Water Chemistry: pH, alkalinity, and hardness must be managed
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Avoid Constant High Output: Running at 100% wears out the cell faster
📆 Lifespan of a salt cell: ~3–5 years (with proper care)
For Spas
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Salt Cell Life: ~10–18 months depending on usage
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Water Changes: Recommended every 4–6 months
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Balance Water Chemistry: Especially important in hot water environments
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Control High Chlorine: Leave the cover open to allow chlorine to gas off
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Use Spa Boy™ or Onzen™ (Arctic Spas): Allows easy control of chlorine levels
🔁 Use a product like “Chem-Out” if chlorine levels are above 10 ppm and need rapid correction.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
“Will salt damage my pool equipment?”
No — this is a myth.
Saltwater systems use very low salinity levels (just 1/10 of ocean water). When properly maintained, they are no more corrosive than traditional chlorine pools.
To protect metal components, we recommend adding a sacrificial anode, which absorbs any stray electrical current or corrosion potential — leaving your heater, lights, and fixtures untouched.
“What’s a sacrificial anode?”
A small zinc-based device placed in your plumbing or skimmer. It corrodes before anything else, protecting your system. It's low-cost insurance against corrosion.
“Does salt water taste or smell salty?”
No. The salt level is too low for most people to detect. What you’ll notice is softer-feeling, more comfortable water — without strong chlorine odors.
“Can I convert my chlorine pool to salt?”
Yes — and it’s a popular upgrade. All we need to do is:
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Install a salt chlorinator
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Add pool-grade salt
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Balance your water
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Let the system take over
No more handling chlorine tablets.
“Are salt systems high maintenance?”
Not at all! In fact, they’re lower maintenance than traditional chlorine systems:
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No daily chemical dosing
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Only occasional salt top-ups
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Fewer algae problems
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Long-term cost savings
Just test your water weekly and clean the salt cell 1–2x per season.
“Are salt systems okay for spas?”
Absolutely! Especially with Arctic Spas' Spa Boy & Onzen™ salt systems, you’ll enjoy:
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Softer water
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Less chemical smell
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Fewer irritants
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Easier maintenance
We also offer controls that prevent chlorine from rising too high, ensuring your spa stays safe and comfortable.
🛡 Salt Systems Are Safe, Smart & Proven
Many of the common fears about salt systems — corrosion, high cost, maintenance — come from outdated equipment or improper installation. Modern systems are:
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Designed to handle salt levels safely
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Supported with optional sacrificial anodes
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Easier and more efficient than ever
Premier Pool & Spa has installed hundreds of salt systems, and we continue to recommend them for pools and spas across Minnesota.
🛍️ Thinking About Going Salt?
We carry salt systems, salt cells, and expert guidance to help you make the switch.
📍 Visit Premier Pool & Spa
🛒 Schedule a service call to update your pool to salt
📞 Contact us
Let’s make your water softer, safer, and easier to maintain — the saltwater way.
