The Simplicity of a Salt System Hot Tub
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Time to read 3 min
What is a Salt Water Hot Tub?
A salt system hot tub (or "saltwater hot tub") uses dissolved salt in the water and a built-in salt chlorine generator to sanitize the spa. Instead of manually adding chlorine or bromine tablets, the system automatically creates chlorine from the salt youβve added to the water.
Think of it like a tiny on-site chlorine factory. The water stays cleaner with fewer chemical highs and lows, and it usually feels a lot gentler on your skin.
π‘ Did you know
Salt Water Tubs started gaining traction in the early 2000's when Hot Springs released their ACE Saltwater System. People loved the idea of softer water without all the chemical maintenance. Today, about 20% of hot tubs now come with salt water systems or have the ability to add one.Β
How Does a Salt Water Hot Tub Work?
Β Β Β Β The science of salt systems in plain english:
You add a special kind of spa-grade sodium chloride (salt) to your hot tub water.
The salt cell (aka salt generator) converts that salt into chlorine through electrolysis.
That chlorine disinfects your water just like traditional methods.
Once itβs done killing bacteria, the chlorine converts back into salt.
And the cycle continues! π
So no, you're not sitting in ocean waterβit's a very low salt concentration , usually around 1,500β2,000 ppm, which is way less salty than your tears (for real).
Pros of Salt Systems |
- Softer Water Feel: Gentle on skin, hair, and eyes. No harsh chemical smells or itchy residue.
- Fewer Chemical Spikes: The system creates chlorine steadily, avoiding highs and lows.
- Less Manual Work: You don't have to add chlorine as often, since the system handles it.
- Lower Long-Term Costs: Once installed, the ongoing cost of salt is generally less than constant chemicals.
Cons of Salt Systems |
- Upfront Cost: A saltwater system typically costs $400β$800+ for parts and installation.
- Component Wear: Salt is corrosive over time, and can wear down heaters, pumps, and seals faster if not properly balanced.
- Maintenance Still Needed: Water chemistry still needs to be tested and balanced (pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness).
- Salt Cells Don't Last Forever: Youβll need to replace the generator cell every 2β5 years depending on use.
Can I Convert My Hot Tub to Salt?
Yes! Most standard hot tubs can be converted to a salt system with a conversion kit. Here's the following steps you'd take:
- Choose A Saltwater Chlorine Generator
- Check Compatibility of Your Hot Tub Components
- Add the Salt System and Install the Control Box
- Add the Right Amount of Spa-Grade Salt
- Balance Water Chemistry First
- Let the System Run and Monitor
It's not usually a hard process, but make sure your hot tub components can handle salt waterβor be ready to upgrade them later if they wear out early.
Do I Still Need Chlorine or Bromine if I Have a Salt System?
Yesβ¦ but not the way youβre used to.
The salt system creates chlorine for you from the saltβso you're still using chlorine, just not adding it manually.
You donβt need bromine in a salt system.
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You still need to:
Test your water regularly (weekly at least)
Monitor and adjust pH , alkalinity , and calcium hardness
Occasionally shock the water , especially after heavy use
Clean filters and drain/refill the tub every few months
Salt doesnβt make the need for maintenance disappearβit just shifts the way you handle it.
Great Products To Use W/ Salt Hot Tubs
Check Out Our Most Recent Salt Water Hot Tub Install
Helpful Tips For Beginners With a Salt System
Use The Right Kind of Salt: Look for salt thatβs specifically marked for hot tubs or pools and doesnβt contain anti-caking agents.
Balance Water Chemistry First - Then Turn on the Salt System: Once the water is balanced, add salt, then start generating chlorine.
Test Weekly (Don't Turn it on and then Leave it): Keep a test kit or strips on hand and check your water at least once a week.
Clean the Salt Cell Regularly: Staying ahead of scale will extend the life of your system and keep chlorine levels consistent.
