How much salt do I add to my pool?

To raise 10,000 gallons by 1 ppm takes about 0.083 lb of salt — so going from 2,400 to 3,200 ppm in a 20,000-gallon pool needs roughly 130 lb (about three 40-lb bags). Enter your numbers above.

What kind of salt should I use?

Pool-grade salt that's 99%+ sodium chloride (NaCl), additive-free. Avoid rock salt or salt with anti-caking agents.

How do I lower pool salt?

Only by partially draining and refilling with fresh water — there's no additive that removes salt.

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Pool Salt Calculator

Saltwater generators need the right salt level to make chlorine. Enter your current reading and we'll tell you how many pounds (or 40-lb bags) to add.

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Balance your whole pool at once →Enter all your readings on one screen and get an ordered dosing plan — the full Water Report.

How to use it

Check your current salt (from your generator's display or a test).
Enter it, your target (check your cell's manual — 3,200 ppm is typical), and your volume.
Broadcast salt across the pool, brush to dissolve, and run the pump ~24 hours before trusting the cell reading.

What salt level does your generator need?

Most saltwater chlorine generators want 2,700–3,400 ppm, with 3,200 a common target — but always check your specific cell's manual, since the ideal range varies by brand. Too low and the cell can't produce chlorine; too high and it can trip a fault or accelerate corrosion.

Frequently asked questions

How much salt do I add to my pool?: To raise 10,000 gallons by 1 ppm takes about 0.083 lb of salt — so going from 2,400 to 3,200 ppm in a 20,000-gallon pool needs roughly 130 lb (about three 40-lb bags). Enter your numbers above.
What kind of salt should I use?: Pool-grade salt that's 99%+ sodium chloride (NaCl), additive-free. Avoid rock salt or salt with anti-caking agents.
How do I lower pool salt?: Only by partially draining and refilling with fresh water — there's no additive that removes salt.

Related calculators

Built & reviewed by a working pool-service pro. Target ranges follow CDC MAHC, PHTA, and Taylor guidance. Doses are starting estimates — add a little less than the max, re-test, and confirm against your product label. Educational tool, not a substitute for a water test or professional advice.