09/23/2026
Let’s talk Salt Water Generators 💦
🧂 Can you trust the salt reading on your saltwater generator?
Your system’s reading is helpful, but it may not always be completely accurate. A saltwater generator estimates salt based on the water’s electrical conductivity—it does not directly measure the amount of sodium chloride in the pool.
Inside the plumbing line sits the salt cell, which contains a series of titanium plates. The generator sends a low-voltage electrical current across these plates.
• High Salt: More salt ions in the water allow electricity to flow easily, creating higher amperage and lower resistance.
• Low Salt: Fewer salt ions make it harder for the current to pass through, creating lower amperage and higher resistance.
The generator's internal computer measures this electrical current (amperage and voltage) and uses a pre-programmed formula to convert it into a "parts per million" (ppm) salinity reading.
Its reading can be affected by:
• Cold water
• A dirty, scaled or aging salt cell
• Low water flow or air in the plumbing
• Salt that hasn’t completely dissolved and circulated
• Incorrect cell settings or calibration
A difference of approximately 200–400 ppm between the generator and an independent test is not unusual.
Not all salt-testing methods offer the same reliability:
🧪 Salt test strips: Convenient for a quick estimate, but generally provide the broadest range and can be affected by age, moisture, timing and how the colors are interpreted.
📟 Digital salt meters: Usually provide a more precise reading than strips, but the meter must be clean and properly calibrated. Water temperature and other dissolved minerals can also influence the result.
💧 Drop-count salt tests: A properly performed salt titration test is generally one of the most dependable ways to independently verify the salt level. The drops must be added correctly and be complete, full drops to get an accurate reading.
🏪 Professional water testing: Reliable when the equipment is maintained correctly and proper sampling procedures are followed, but you can sometimes expect a range of 200-400 ppm from the actual level.
⚠️ Never add more salt based only on a low generator reading. If the actual salt level is already correct, adding more could push the pool above the manufacturer’s recommended range—and lowering it usually requires draining and replacing water.
For the best comparison, allow newly added salt to dissolve and circulate thoroughly before retesting.
I would recommend a Taylor Drop Test kit for Sodium Chloride or a Digital Salt Meter for at home testing.
Or you are welcome to bring a water sample to Pike Pools, and we’ll help you verify the salt level before you add another bag! 💦
