Saltwater Pool Systems for 2023: Top Picks & Expert Reviews

Jafar Dhada

Saltwater pool systems are becoming increasingly popular among pool owners due to their multiple benefits. Our previous article covered everything about Saltwater Pools, including how they work and why they are a better choice than traditional chlorine pools.

Here’s a quick recap of what we learned about saltwater pools:

  • Saltwater pools don’t require adding liquid chlorine or chlorine tablets to your pool, which is healthier for your skin and eyes.
  • They require less maintenance than chlorine pools.
  • They offer an enhanced swimming experience by making the water softer and silkier.

This article will dive deeper into the best saltwater pool systems available today.

Saltwater Pool Systems for 2023: Top Picks & Expert Reviews

We will focus on in-ground and above-ground options for different pool sizes. We will carefully examine each system’s features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you choose the best salt system for your pool type and size.

We will also provide the information you need to select the right salt system for your pool.

How to Select the Best Salt Water System for Your Pool

Choosing the right salt system for your pool can be a daunting task, but it’s a decision that you want to get right the first time.

Each pool type requires a specific saltwater system to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and minimal maintenance. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a saltwater system that best suits your requirements:

Pool Size and Type

The size and type of your pool are the most important factors to consider when looking for a saltwater pool system. You must select a system that aligns with your pool size.

If you choose a system that is too small for your pool, it will not be able to sanitize the water effectively. If you select a system that is bigger than what is required for your pool size, you may spend more money than needed.

You should also consider whether your pool is above-ground or in-ground. Above-ground pools typically require smaller systems, while in-ground pools usually require larger ones.

Pool Use

Another critical factor to consider while choosing a salt system for your pool is how often your pool is used. You should consider how many people use it and what type of activities they do. It may require a stronger system if your pool is frequently used for activities like pool parties.

A system with a higher chlorine output capacity will keep the water clear and sanitized even with heavy use.

Energy Efficiency

When selecting a salt system for your pool, energy efficiency should be a significant consideration, as it can affect your overall operating cost.

Look for systems with energy-saving features that allow you to control the system’s operation during off-peak hours. An energy-efficient salt system will not only save you money but will also reduce your environmental footprint.

Warranty and Customer Support

The manufacturer’s warranty and customer support are crucial factors when purchasing a saltwater system for your pool.

A comprehensive warranty will give you peace of mind, knowing that you are protected against potential defects or issues with the system. One of the main reasons we recommend Hayward Pool systems the most to our customers is their exceptional customer support and warranty.

Maintenance

The saltwater system you select should simplify your pool maintenance routine and not complicate it. It would be best if you opted for a system that is easy to maintain.

Make sure that the system you are going with has an easy-to-read display or indicators to monitor salt levels, water temperature, and chlorine levels. Choose a system that requires minimal hands-on maintenance to ensure you spend more time enjoying your pool!

Here is a simple flowchart to help you select the best salt system for your pool based on size and type.

Flow chart for Selecting a Salt System

Best Salt System for Above Ground Pools

Above-ground pools are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their affordability and ease of installation. Choosing the right saltwater system for your above-ground pool is crucial for a hassle-free swimming experience.

Here are our top picks for above-ground pools of different sizes:

For Small to Medium size Above Ground pools

Hayward AquaTrol® Salt Chlorination System (Top Pick)

Hayward-AquaTrol-Salt-System
  • Explicitly designed for above-ground pools (up to 18,000 gallons)
  • Hayward’s patented Turbo Cell technology for efficient salt-to-chlorine conversion
  • The digital indicator display shows the salt level and seven other diagnostic metrics
  • Smart dispensing function regulates levels automatically, or with manual switch On/Off/Auto
  • Auto-reversing polarity, periodically cleans the salt cell to ensure the best function
  • 24-hour timer for automatic control of filtration cycles
  • User-friendly interface
  • Easy to install and maintain
  • 1-year parts warranty with extension options available

The Hayward AquaTrol Salt Chlorination system is an excellent choice for small to medium-sized above-ground swimming pools. It is specifically designed for above-ground pools with up to 18,000 gallons and is well-known for its reliability and ease of use.

One of the standout features of this system is its Turbo Cell technology, which converts salt into chlorine in the most efficient way, ensuring consistent and adequate chlorination for your pool.

It also has a digital display with a user-friendly interface for monitoring the salt level, water temperature, and chlorination levels.

Lastly, it requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal choice for busy pool owners. The self-cleaning Turbo Cell prevents the buildup of scale, reducing the need for manual cleaning and increasing the system’s lifespan.

In conclusion, the Hayward AquaTrol Salt Chlorination System is the best choice for small to medium-sized above-ground pools due to its specialized design, advanced features, and lower maintenance requirement.

If you’re ready to upgrade your pool with the Hayward AquaTrol Salt Chlorination system, our expert team is here to help. Click the button below to schedule a consultation, and let us take care of the installation process so you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier, and more enjoyable swimming experience!

For Large-sized Above-ground pools

Hayward Salt & Swim ABG (Top choice)

Hayward-SaltSwimABG-Salt-System
  • Designed for large above-ground pools up to 23,000 gallons
  • Efficient and consistent chlorination
  • User-friendly interface
  • Reduces your chlorine costs by 50% or more
  • Produces equivalent of 155 lbs. of Trichlor (chlorine)
  • Self-cleaning cell
  • Simple installation and easy maintenance

The Hayward Salt & Swim ABG (above ground) is a premium salt chlorination system designed specifically for large above-ground pools, with the ability to treat up to 23,000 gallons of water.

The Salt & Swim ABG system is engineered for efficient and consistent chlorination. Its advanced salt cell technology ensures a continuous and even conversion of salt into chlorine, maintaining optimal water quality and preventing the growth of algae and bacteria.

One of the best features of the Hayward Salt & Swim ABG system is its self-cleaning cell. It reduces the need for manual maintenance and increases the system’s lifespan by preventing the buildup of calcium deposits on the cell’s plates.

Moreover, it has a simple and easy-to-use control system (shown in the picture below) that allows you to monitor salt levels, water flow, and any other potential issues that may require attention.

Hayward-Salt-&-Swim-ABG-Control-System

In conclusion, the Hayward Salt & Swim ABG system is an excellent choice for large above-ground pool owners seeking a reliable, low-maintenance salt chlorination solution. The Salt & Swim ABG system delivers outstanding performance and value with its consistent chlorination, user-friendly interface, simple installation process, and energy-efficient design.

If you are considering upgrading your pool with this system, we are here to help! Our experts will offer personalized consultations to address your specific requirements.

Our technicians are especially skilled in installing Hayward Systems, offering you a seamless installation experience. We also offer ongoing support, repairs, and system upgrades to ensure a clean, healthy, and enjoyable experience for years.

Best Salt System for In-Ground Pools

In-ground pools come in various shapes and sizes, and choosing the right salt system for your in-ground pool is crucial to maintaining clean, healthy water. In this section, we’ll discuss the best saltwater systems for inground pools of various sizes, highlighting the key features and benefits of each.

For Small to Medium sized In-ground pools

Hayward AquaRite® S3 Salt Chlorination System with 25,000-gallon cell

Hayward-Aquarite-s3-open-cell-Salt-System-25k
  • Right-sized for new and existing residential pools up to 25,000 gallons.
  • Cost savings of up to 50% or more over conventional chlorine.
  • Variable speed pump control. Gas heater control or heat pump control. Solar heating control, Water feature control – valve actuator control.
  • Clear TurboCell technology for reduced scale by 50%.
  • Digital LCD touch screen intuitive display and simple operation with the ability to adjust chlorine output from 0–100%.
  • Automatic cell cleaning.
  • 3-year warranty

The Hayward AquaRite S3 Salt System with a 25,000-gallon cell is the best choice for small to medium-sized residential pools.

It comes with advanced Turbo Cell technology ensuring efficient conversion of salt to chlorine, maintaining optimal water quality and sanitization. The Hayward TurboCell technology utilizes a transparent salt cell, allowing owners to inspect for calcium buildup without shutting the system or disconnecting the cell.

The system has a user-friendly Digital LCD touch control, making monitoring and adjusting chlorine output easy.

It comes with a self-cleaning salt cell, significantly reducing maintenance requirements and extending the system’s lifespan.

Its robust build quality, advanced TurboCell technology, user-friendly interface, and convenient 3-year warranty make it an outstanding choice for maintaining crystal-clear and safe pool water.

Overall, the Hayward AquaRite S3 salt system with a 25k gallon cell is an exceptional solution for in-ground pool owner’s looking to upgrade their pool’s chlorination system.

If you are considering installing the Hayward AquaRite S3 salt system, we can help! Our expert technicians are especially skilled in installing Hayward Pool Systems and provide you with a seamless installation experience.

For Large-sized In-ground pools

Hayward AquaRite® S3 Salt Chlorination System with 40,000-gallon cell

Hayward-Aquarite-s3-Salt-System-40k
  • Right-sized for new and existing residential pools up to 40,000 gallons.
  • Cost savings of up to 50% or more over conventional chlorine.
  • Variable speed pump control. Gas heater control or heat pump control. Solar heating control, Water feature control – valve actuator control.
  • Clear TurboCell technology for reduced scale by 50%.
  • Digital LCD touch screen intuitive display and simple operation with the ability to adjust chlorine output from 0–100%.
  • Automatic cell cleaning.
  • Easy installation with an automated voltage select 120v/240v
  • 3-year warranty

The AquaRite S3 System with a 40,000-gallon cell will be your best choice if you have a large in-ground pool. It is designed specifically for larger pools to meet the increased chlorination needs. The increased capacity allows the system to efficiently manage the chlorination demands of larger pools while maintaining optimal water quality at all times.

It offers comes with the Hayward TurboCell technology to ensure optimum conversion of salt to chlorine and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria and algae in the pool. The LCD touchscreen control allows you to control the chlorine output easily.

Despite its powerful capabilities, the AquaRite S3 Salt System features a space-efficient design. This ensures the system doesn’t take up excessive space or complicate your pool setup. At Romanelli Pools, our highly skilled technicians will ensure you have a hassle-free installation experience.

We have years of expertise and a deep understanding of Hayward pool equipment, which makes us the best choice for upgrading your pool with the Hayward AquaRite S3 system.

Best Salt Systems for Pool Automation

In today’s tech-dominant world, pool automation is becoming increasingly popular as pool owners seek more convenient ways to maintain their pools.

Imagine controlling water temperature, salt levels, pump speed, pool lights, and more with a click of a button.

Sounds cool, right?

The Hayward AquaRite S3 Omni Salt System enables you to do all that!

AquaRite S3 Omni Salt System

Hayward-AQR_S3_Omni-Salt-System
  • Full control of virtually any pool or spa feature via the external control panel, the mobile app, and voice control devices, including Alexa and Google Home
  • Gain full access and total control over your pool and spa equipment from anywhere via the intuitive OmniLogic app
  • Clear TurboCell S3 Salt Cell for easy inspection and reduced scale.
  • Operates over a broad range of salt levels, 800-8000 ppm
  • Variable speed pump control. Gas heater control or heat pump control. Solar heating control, Water feature control – valve actuator control.
  • Digital LCD touch screen intuitive display and simple operation with the ability to adjust chlorine output from 0–100%.
  • Automatic cell cleaning.

AquaRite S3 Omni Salt System is an all-in-one pool automation system that gives you full control over your entire pool setup through your smartphone. It connects seamlessly to your smart voice assistants, such as Alexa or Google Home, which makes it even better.

Let’s dive into the key features and benefits of the Hayward S3 Omni Salt System and learn why it is an optimum choice for pool automation enthusiasts.

Full Control Over Your Pool from Your Smartphone

Having Hayward’s S3 Omni installed in your pool is like having your pool at your fingertips. You can remotely access and control your pool’s settings from anywhere from the OmniLogic app on your smartphone or tablet.

Hayward-OmniLogic-Features

You can control your water pump’s speed, water temperature, salt & chlorination levels, schedule cleanings, and much more with your smartphone or voice assistants.

You can even program your pool to warm up just before guests arrive, ensuring a perfect swim experience.

Or, let’s say you plan a late-night swim party or a romantic evening by the poolside. You can create personalized lighting themes that set the perfect ambiance for the occasion using the OmniLogic App on your smartphone.

The best thing about it is that it’s designed to seamlessly integrate with all the Hayward pool equipment, such as the Hayward Pumps, heaters, and lighting systems. This compatibility allows you to have a seamless and efficient management experience for your entire pool.

Are you ready to make your pool smart?

Installing and properly configuring the AquaRite S3 Omni Salt System is a complex job that requires expert pool professionals. Our team of skilled technicians can easily integrate the S3 Omni Salt System into your existing pool setup, ensuring a seamless transition to a smart, automated pool experience.

Conclusion

In this article, we’ve explored various Salt systems tailored to different pool types and sizes. We aim to provide valuable insights and recommendations to help you decide when choosing the best saltwater system for your pool.

Remember that factors such as pool size, usage, compatibility, maintenance, and energy efficiency should all be considered when selecting the ideal salt chlorination system for your pool. With the right system in place, you can enjoy a clean, safe, and comfortable swimming experience while minimizing the need for manual maintenance.

Can’t Decide Yet? Let us help

Are you confused with so many options?

Let us help you make an informed decision in choosing the best saltwater system for your pool.

Choosing the perfect system for your needs can be confusing, especially with many available options. But don’t worry; our friendly and knowledgeable team at Romanelli Pools is here to help you make an informed decision.

We’ll guide you through the process, considering factors like pool size, usage, and compatibility, to ensure you select the right salt system for your pool setup.

Our technicians are experts at installing Hayward Pool systems, offering you a seamless installation experience.

Our commitment to your satisfaction goes beyond just installation; we will be on your side to offer you ongoing support, maintenance, repairs, and system upgrades to make sure you have a satisfactory pool experience for years to come.

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Author
Jafar Dhada
Hey there, I am an avid swimming enthusiast coming from a coastal city in India. In my free time, I like to play snooker, and of course have a dive in the sea or a pool.