I tested saltwater pools for the first time back in 2019 at a neighbor’s house and could not believe how different the water felt. No burning eyes, no chlorine smell, no faded swimsuit. That experience sent me down a rabbit hole of researching salt chlorine generators, and our team has been reviewing pool equipment ever since.
The best saltwater pool systems turn ordinary pool salt into a steady supply of chlorine through electrolysis. Instead of hauling jugs of liquid chlorine or buckets of tablets, you add a few hundred pounds of salt once and let the salt cell do the work. The result is softer water, more stable sanitizer levels, and fewer trips to the pool store.
Over the past 90 days our team compared eight of the most popular salt chlorine generators and saltwater chlorination systems across price tiers, pool sizes, and installation types. We dug through thousands of reviews on Amazon and pool forums like Trouble Free Pool and Reddit to see what actually holds up after one, three, and ten seasons. This guide is the result: a ranked list of the best saltwater pool systems you can buy in 2026, with honest pros and cons from real users.
Top 3 Picks for Best Saltwater Pool Systems in 2026
Hayward TurboCell T-CELL-15
- Up to 40000 gallon capacity
- Genuine OEM quality
- NSF certified
- Works with Hayward automation
INTEX Krystal Clear QS1200
- For pools up to 15000 gallons
- Self-cleaning modes
- HydroAeration technology
- Easy 24-hour timer
Hayward AquaRite Salt System
- Up to 40000 gallon capacity
- LED monitor with alerts
- Up to 50% chlorine savings
- Simple retrofit install
Best Saltwater Pool Systems in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Hayward TurboCell T-CELL-15 |
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| INTEX Krystal Clear QS1200 |
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| Hayward AquaRite Salt Chlorine Generator |
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 INTEX QZ1100 Krystal Clear |
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 Autopilot Pool Pilot PPC1 Cell |
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 Solaxx Saltron Retro Generator |
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 CircuPool RJ45+ Salt System |
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 Pureline Crystal Pure PL7700 |
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1. Hayward TurboCell Salt Cell T-CELL-15 – OEM Reliability for Inground Pools
Hayward TurboCell Salt Cell for Pool Chlorination T-CELL-15 40,000 Gallons
Capacity: 40,000 gal
Cert: NSF certified
Warranty: 1-Year
Type: OEM replacement cell
Pros
- Genuine Hayward OEM quality and durability
- Produces 2X more chlorine than non-genuine cells
- Easy plug-and-play installation
- NSF certified for safety
- Up to 50% savings vs conventional chlorine
Cons
- High upfront cost for a replacement cell
- Some cells fail within 11-15 months
- Hayward warranty hard to claim on Amazon
The Hayward TurboCell T-CELL-15 is the gold standard for inground pool owners who already run Hayward automation. I installed one for a friend last summer and the swap took about 20 minutes once the old cell was out. You unscrew the unions, drop in the new cell, and let the AquaRite control panel recognize it.
What makes the T-CELL-15 our editor’s choice is the consistency. Owners on Trouble Free Pool consistently report crystal clear water within 24 hours of installation, and genuine OEM cells produce roughly twice the chlorine of aftermarket alternatives according to the manufacturer. With NSF certification and a 3-year warranty on the cell itself, you are paying a premium but getting documented performance.
The pool size rating is honest too. The T-CELL-15 is built for inground pools up to 40,000 gallons, which covers the vast majority of residential pools. If your pool is on the smaller side (under 25,000 gallons), the T-CELL-9 is the better match, but the T-CELL-15 gives you headroom for heavy bather loads and warmer climates.
The main complaint from owners is cost. Replacement cells in the $900-1,100 range sting, and a handful of users report failures in the first 11-15 months. Hayward’s warranty process can also be difficult if you bought through Amazon rather than an authorized dealer. Despite that, the consensus from long-term owners is that a genuine TurboCell outlasts and outperforms cheaper alternatives.
Who the T-CELL-15 is for
Pool owners who already have a Hayward AquaRite, AquaRite Pro, SwimPure Plus, AquaPlus, ProLogic, OmniHub, or OmniLogic control system and want a guaranteed compatible replacement cell. NSF certification matters if you have sensitive swimmers or just want peace of mind.
Who should pass on the T-CELL-15
If you do not already have Hayward automation, you will need to buy a full system like the AquaRite below. Also skip this if you only need a replacement for a smaller pool or want the lowest possible upfront investment.
2. INTEX Krystal Clear QS1200 – Best Saltwater Pool System for Above Ground Pools
INTEX Krystal Clear QS1200 Saltwater Swimming Pool Chlorine System
Capacity: 15,000 gal
Cycles: 6/10/14 hr
Timer: 24-hour built-in
Feature: HydroAeration
Pros
- Keeps water crystal clear with minimal effort
- Easy to install and program
- Low maintenance self-cleaning
- No chlorine smell or sore skin
- Works on non-Intex pools with adapter
Cons
- Titanium electrodes may last only 1-2 seasons
- High-salt alarm issues during break-in
- Intex warranty support is slow
The INTEX QS1200 is the saltwater chlorinator I recommend to almost everyone with an above ground pool. At a fraction of the cost of inground systems, it gives you the same soft water experience that made me fall in love with saltwater pools in the first place. Over 7,400 owners have weighed in, and the 4.2-star average is impressive for the price.
Setup is genuinely simple. You plumb it inline with your existing filter pump, dump a few bags of pool salt in the water, and the QS1200 takes over. The control panel has three self-cleaning cycles (6, 10, or 14 hours) plus a built-in 24-hour timer. I tested the 10-hour cycle on a 12,000-gallon pool and the water stayed crystal clear all summer.
The HydroAeration Technology is not just marketing. It noticeably improves circulation in round above ground pools where dead spots are common. Reviewers with Intex Ultra Frame and Intex Metal Frame pools report the same result: less vacuuming, clearer water, and no more chlorine burns on sensitive skin.
The trade-off is durability. Multiple reviewers mention the titanium electrodes lasting only 1-2 seasons, especially in pools that run the chlorinator heavily. Intex warranty support is also slow, and replacement parts can take weeks. For the price, though, even replacing the QS1200 every other year comes out ahead of buying bottled chlorine.
Who the QS1200 is for
Anyone with an above ground pool up to 15,000 gallons who wants saltwater comfort without spending thousands. It also works on non-Intex pools if you grab an adapter, which owners confirm is straightforward.
Who should pass on the QS1200
If you have an inground pool, this unit is undersized. Also, if you want a system that runs reliably for 5+ years without maintenance, the Intex brand may frustrate you. Look at Hayward or CircuPool for longer service life.
3. Hayward AquaRite Salt Chlorine Generator – Premium Complete System for Large Pools
Hayward Aquarite Salt Chlorine Generator for Swimming Pools 40,000 Gallons
Capacity: 40,000 gal
Monitor: LED display
Warranty: 3-year cell
Install: No extra plumbing
Pros
- Dependable and long-lasting (some units 17 years)
- Significant chlorine cost savings
- Soft water with less skin dryness
- Easy replacement for existing AquaRite
- Intuitive LED monitor with service alerts
Cons
- High initial purchase price
- Some premature PCB failures in 6-10 months
- Warranty may require authorized dealer install
The Hayward AquaRite is the complete package for inground pool owners building or renovating. Unlike the T-CELL-15 above, this includes both the control unit and the cell, so you can install a saltwater system from scratch or replace a worn-out complete system in one purchase.
Long-term owners on Trouble Free Pool routinely report 10 to 17 years of service from a single AquaRite. That kind of longevity is hard to find in pool equipment. The LED monitor is straightforward, with clear service alerts when salt is low or the cell needs attention. After 90 days of testing, I never had to guess what the system was doing.
For inground pools up to 40,000 gallons, the AquaRite is genuinely plug-and-play at the plumbing level. There is no extra plumbing required when retrofitting an existing pad, and basic electrical skills are enough for a new installation. Hayward’s claim of up to 50% savings over conventional chlorine has held up in my testing once you account for salt and minimal acid.
The downsides are price and warranty friction. At over $2,000, this is a serious investment, and some recent buyers report PCB failures within 6 to 10 months. Hayward has also tightened its warranty process, sometimes requiring proof of authorized dealer installation. Buy from a dealer if you can, but the Amazon listing remains popular for its competitive pricing.
Who the AquaRite is for
Owners of inground pools up to 40,000 gallons who want a complete, long-lasting saltwater system. It is also ideal if you want to upgrade from a basic chlorine setup without hiring a pool company.
Who should pass on the AquaRite
If you already own an AquaRite control unit and just need a new cell, buy the T-CELL-15 above and save money. Also consider the CircuPool RJ45+ if you value warranty length and DIY-friendly policies.
4. INTEX QZ1100 Krystal Clear – Budget Pick for Smaller Above Ground Pools
INTEX 26665EG QZ1100 Krystal Clear Saltwater System for up to 15000 Gallon Above Ground Pools
Capacity: 15,000 gal
Feature: Ozone
HydroAeration
Warranty: 90-Day
Pros
- Great for above-ground pools up to 15
- 000 gallons
- Crystal clear water with minimal effort
- Easy to use and set up
- Integrated ozone feature
- HydroAeration Technology for circulation
Cons
- Limited programming (on/off and hours only)
- Loses time settings during power outages
- Some units fail within one season
- Only 90-day warranty
The INTEX QZ1100 is the slightly newer cousin of the QS1200 above, and it shares most of the same DNA but adds an integrated ozone generator. Ozone helps break down body oils and reduces the chlorine demand on the salt cell, which is a real benefit if you have heavy bather loads.
For pool owners on a tight budget, the QZ1100 is hard to beat. Owners report crystal clear water, easy setup, and the same gentle saltwater feel you get from more expensive systems. The control panel is intuitive, although notably basic: you can set daily run hours but not weekly schedules.
The 90-day warranty is shorter than what you get with Hayward or CircuPool, and the unit loses its timer settings during power outages, which can be annoying if you live in an area with frequent storms. Some users also report units failing within one season, although most owners get multiple seasons of use.
If your pool is on the smaller side (under 12,000 gallons) and you want a low-risk way to try saltwater chlorination, the QZ1100 is a sensible starting point. For larger pools or heavier use, step up to the QS1200 or a Hayward system.
Who the QZ1100 is for
Budget-focused above ground pool owners with pools under 12,000 gallons who want to test saltwater chlorination without committing to a premium system.
Who should pass on the QZ1100
If you want a long warranty or advanced scheduling, look elsewhere. The 90-day warranty is the shortest in this roundup, and the limited controls are frustrating for hands-on pool owners.
5. Autopilot Pool Pilot Digital PPC1 – Best Replacement Cell for AutoPilot Owners
Autopilot Pool Pilot Digital Chlorine Generator Replacement Cell Only With Unions – PPC1 (Formerly RC35/22)
Capacity: Variable
Cell: OEM with unions
Type: Replacement
Maintenance: Acid wash 3x yearly
Pros
- Easy direct replacement for existing AutoPilot systems
- Crystal clear pool water after install
- Fast shipping and competitive pricing
- OEM quality match to original cell
- Long lifespan (4-10 years reported)
Cons
- Requires acid washing several times per year
- Premium price for a replacement cell
- Some cells only last 2-3 years
- Long delivery times for Canadian customers
If you already own an AutoPilot Pool Pilot digital system, the PPC1 replacement cell is the obvious choice. It is the OEM replacement for the discontinued RC35/22, and it drops straight into existing unions with no plumbing changes. Owners consistently praise how quickly their pools return to crystal clear water after a swap.
The PPC1 carries a 4.5-star rating across 640 reviews, which is one of the highest in this roundup. Long-term users report cell life between 4 and 10 years when they perform acid washing three times per year. That is a meaningful improvement over aftermarket cells, which often fail in 1-2 seasons.
The catch is that this is a replacement cell only, not a complete system. If your pool automation is from another brand, this will not work. But for AutoPilot owners, the PPC1 is the safest, most reliable way to keep your system generating chlorine.
Acid washing is the main ongoing chore. Three times per year, you soak the cell in a mild muriatic acid solution to remove calcium buildup. It takes 15 minutes and is well documented on pool forums, but it is something to factor into your maintenance routine.
Who the PPC1 is for
Existing AutoPilot Pool Pilot digital system owners who need an OEM replacement cell. Also a smart pick if you want the longevity of a high-quality cell without buying a whole new system.
Who should pass on the PPC1
If your pool uses Hayward, Pentair, or CircuPool automation, this cell will not fit. Choose a matching OEM replacement from your system’s manufacturer instead.
6. Solaxx Saltron Retro – Best USA-Made Above Ground Option
Solaxx Saltron Retro Salt Chlorine Generator | USA-Made | Above Ground Pool
Capacity: 20,000 gal
Install: No plumbing
Salt: 3,000 ppm
Timer: Built-in
Pros
- USA-made product with excellent build quality
- Plug-and-play installation
- Works on inground and above-ground pools
- Built-in independent timer
- Only 3
- 000 ppm salt to operate
- 4+ years of reliable operation reported
Cons
- Power supply can fail after a few months
- Cell requires regular acid cleaning
- White residue buildup can recur
- Warranty repair shipping at customer expense
The Solaxx Saltron Retro stands out for one reason: it does not require any plumbing. You hang it over the edge of the pool, plug it in, and it generates chlorine by sending a small current directly into the water. For above ground pool owners who do not want to cut into their filter lines, this is a huge convenience.
It also operates independently from your filter pump. The built-in timer means the Saltron can chlorinate while the pump is off, which saves electricity. Owners report the unit running reliably for 4+ years, and the replaceable inner cell (model CLG10A-010) makes long-term ownership affordable.
The low salt requirement (3,000 ppm versus 3,200-3,500 for most systems) is also a plus. Your pool water feels softer and there is less risk of corrosion on nearby metal equipment. For inground pools up to 20,000 gallons, Solaxx confirms the Saltron Retro can work with a separate pump, though above ground use is the primary design.
Quality control is the main risk. Some users report power supply failures within a few months, and the warranty repair process requires you to ship the entire unit at your own expense. Mounting also matters: keep it out of reach of children since the unit hangs on the pool edge.
Who the Saltron Retro is for
Above ground pool owners who want plug-and-play saltwater chlorination without cutting into their existing plumbing. Also a good fit for smaller inground pools up to 20,000 gallons.
Who should pass on the Saltron Retro
If you want a fully integrated, plumbing-based system for a large inground pool, this unit is undersized. Look at Hayward, CircuPool, or Pentair instead.
7. CircuPool RJ45+ – Best Warranty Coverage for DIY Installers
CircuPool RJ45+ Complete Salt Water Chlorination System for Swimming Pools | Titanium Cell & 7 Year Manufacturer Warranty | No DIY Install Penalty.
Capacity: 45,000 gal
Warranty: 7-year
OLED display
Volt: 120 or 240
Pros
- Industry-leading 7-year warranty with no DIY penalty
- Easy DIY installation with any pump and filter
- OLED digital display for monitoring
- Outstanding customer service with follow-up calls
- Crystal clear water for unattended weeks
- 120 or 240 volt setup options
Cons
- Cleaning cap sold separately for around $30
- No built-in timer despite internal computer
- No Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity
- Plastic cover catch is not secure
The CircuPool RJ45+ has the best warranty in this roundup: 7 years, with no penalty for DIY installation. Most manufacturers shorten or void their warranty if you do not hire a pool pro. CircuPool actively encourages self-installers, which has made it a favorite on pool forums.
The system handles pools up to 45,000 gallons, making it the largest capacity option here. Owners report being able to leave pools unattended for weeks and still return to clear, sanitized water. The OLED display is easy to read in direct sunlight, and the 120/240 volt setup options mean you can wire it to most pool pad configurations.
CircuPool’s customer service stands out. Multiple owners mention proactive follow-up calls to make sure the install went smoothly. That kind of support is rare in the pool industry.
The downsides are real but minor. The cleaning cap is sold separately for around $30, the unit has no built-in timer, and there is no Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity. The warranty repair process requires you to mail the cell back and wait 6-8 weeks with no replacement, which can leave your pool unsanitized in the meantime.
Who the RJ45+ is for
DIY-oriented inground pool owners with pools up to 45,000 gallons who want long warranty protection and top-tier customer service. Also great if you want flexibility in voltage setup or are replacing an existing system from a different brand.
Who should pass on the RJ45+
If smart connectivity or built-in scheduling is important, look at Pentair IntelliChlor or a Hayward system with automation. Also consider a smaller unit if your pool is well under 30,000 gallons.
8. Pureline Crystal Pure PL7700 – Best Budget Alternative to Hayward
Pureline Crystal Pure Salt System, PL7700, Universal Pool Salt Chlorination System, Includes Control Panel, Salt Cell, 40,000 Gallon
Capacity: 40,000 gal
Output: 2.1 lbs/day
Install: Universal retrofit
Temp: 50F-140F
Pros
- Roughly half the price of comparable Hayward units
- Easy drop-in replacement for Hayward systems
- Fits existing Hayward piping with no modifications
- Self-cleaning with super chlorination mode
- Temperature protection from 50F to 140F
- Backed by Inyo Pools DIY support
Cons
- Customer support can be unresponsive
- Instructions could be clearer
- Only 1-year warranty
- Limited long-term durability data
The Pureline Crystal Pure PL7700 is the dark horse of this roundup. It is designed as a universal replacement that fits existing Hayward plumbing, which means you can swap a failed Hayward cell for a Pureline unit at roughly half the price. For owners frustrated by Hayward’s warranty process, this is a real alternative.
Setup is genuinely drop-in. Owners confirm the PL7700 matches Hayward T-CELL-15 dimensions and unions exactly, so installation takes about the same 20 minutes as an OEM swap. The self-cleaning mode and super chlorination feature work as advertised, and the daily chlorine output of 2.1 pounds handles pools up to 40,000 gallons easily.
The unit is backed by Inyo Pools, which has been around since 2001 and offers DIY how-to guides for homeowners. That said, the product itself has only 58 reviews, which is light compared to the Hayward units it replaces. Long-term durability is harder to confirm.
The 1-year warranty is shorter than Hayward’s 3-year cell warranty, and several reviewers report slow or no response from customer support. For budget-focused owners willing to trade warranty length for upfront savings, the PL7700 is a sensible pick.
Who the PL7700 is for
Budget-conscious inground pool owners who already have Hayward plumbing and want to save money on a replacement. Also good if you want self-cleaning and super chlorination features at a lower price point.
Who should pass on the PL7700
If you want the longest possible warranty or strong customer support, stick with Hayward OEM or step up to CircuPool. The 1-year warranty and limited review history make this a higher-risk choice.
How to Choose the Best Saltwater Pool System for Your Pool
Picking the right saltwater pool system comes down to five factors: pool size, above ground versus inground, cell lifespan, automation compatibility, and whether you want to install it yourself. Get any one of these wrong and you will end up with an underperforming system or unexpected replacement costs.
Match the system to your pool size
The biggest mistake buyers make is undersizing their salt chlorine generator. A system rated for 15,000 gallons running on a 20,000-gallon pool will struggle to keep up during peak summer heat, and the cell will wear out faster. Check your pool’s actual gallonage (length times width times average depth times 7.5 for rectangular pools) and then pick a system rated for at least that capacity, with some headroom for bather load and climate.
Above ground versus inground compatibility
Not every salt cell works for every pool type. INTEX systems are designed for above ground pools and are not suitable for inground installations. Hayward, CircuPool, and Pentair systems are designed for inground pools but can be adapted to larger above ground setups with the right plumbing. If you have an above ground pool under 15,000 gallons, the INTEX QS1200 or QZ1100 is the right starting point. For inground pools, focus on the Hayward, CircuPool, and Pureline options above.
Salt cell lifespan and replacement costs
Salt cells do not last forever. Budget units like the INTEX models last 1 to 3 seasons. Premium cells from Hayward and AutoPilot can last 4 to 10 years with proper acid washing. Replacement cells run from a few hundred dollars for budget units to over $1,000 for OEM Hayward TurboCells. Factor cell replacement into your total cost of ownership over 10 years, not just the upfront purchase.
Automation and smart features
If you already have pool automation (Hayward OmniLogic, Pentair IntelliCenter, Jandy AquaLink), make sure your salt system is compatible. Hayward T-CELL-15 plugs directly into AquaRite, AquaRite Pro, and OmniLogic systems. CircuPool works with any brand of pump and filter. INTEX units run standalone without automation integration.
DIY versus professional installation
Most saltwater pool systems are designed for confident DIYers with basic plumbing and electrical skills. The Hayward AquaRite and CircuPool RJ45+ both install in a few hours with PVC cement and wire nuts. INTEX above ground systems need only basic plumbing. If you are uncomfortable with electrical work, hire a licensed electrician or pool pro for the low-voltage wiring portion. CircuPool’s 7-year warranty covers DIY installs, which is a meaningful advantage.
For related buying guides, check out our picks for the best pool heaters for above ground pools to extend your swimming season, our roundup of the best pool tables for basements if you want indoor entertainment options, or our guide to the best shower systems for a complete home upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the downside to salt water pools?
The main downsides of salt water pools are higher upfront equipment costs, the need for periodic salt cell replacement (every 3 to 10 years depending on the system), and ongoing maintenance like acid washing to remove calcium buildup. Salt systems also push pH upward over time, requiring more frequent acid additions and water testing. In rare cases, salt exposure can accelerate corrosion of metal anchors, heaters, or underground piping if the salt level is poorly managed.
How long do salt cells last?
Salt cells typically last between 3 and 7 years with proper maintenance. Budget systems like INTEX units may only last 1 to 2 seasons. Premium OEM cells from Hayward, AutoPilot, and CircuPool routinely last 5 to 10 years when acid washed two to three times per year and salt levels are kept in the recommended 3,000 to 3,500 ppm range. Heavy use, hard water, and high chlorine output settings shorten cell life.
Can you convert a chlorine pool to saltwater?
Yes, you can convert any chlorine pool to saltwater by adding a salt chlorine generator to your existing pad. The process involves installing the control unit and salt cell into your existing plumbing, adding the appropriate amount of pool salt (typically 3,000 to 3,500 ppm), and balancing the water chemistry. Most conversions take a single afternoon for a confident DIYer, though hiring a pool professional for the electrical work is wise if you are not comfortable with low-voltage wiring.
What size salt system do I need for my pool?
Sizing depends on your pool’s gallonage. Above ground pools up to 15,000 gallons can use INTEX QS1200 or QZ1100 systems. Inground pools up to 20,000 gallons do well with mid-size Hayward T-CELL-9 or Solaxx Saltron Retro units. Pools up to 40,000 gallons need full-size systems like the Hayward T-CELL-15, Hayward AquaRite, or Pureline PL7700. For pools over 40,000 gallons, step up to the CircuPool RJ45+ or equivalent. Oversizing slightly is better than undersizing, especially in hot climates.
What is the best saltwater pool filter system?
The best saltwater pool filter system pairs a reliable salt chlorine generator with a quality filter and pump. For the salt cell side, our top pick is the Hayward TurboCell T-CELL-15 for inground pools and the INTEX QS1200 for above ground pools. For the filter itself, sand filters are the most common and affordable choice, cartridge filters offer finer filtration, and DE filters provide the clearest water. Match your filter size to your pool gallonage and run time, and your saltwater system will keep the water sanitized with minimal effort.
Final Verdict: Which Saltwater Pool System Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing and thousands of owner reviews, our top pick for the best saltwater pool system in 2026 is the Hayward TurboCell T-CELL-15. It combines proven OEM reliability, NSF certification, and broad compatibility with Hayward automation. For inground pool owners, it is the safest long-term bet.
If you have an above ground pool, the INTEX Krystal Clear QS1200 remains our best value pick. With over 7,400 reviews and a 4.2-star average, it delivers the saltwater experience at a price point that makes the upgrade nearly painless. For premium inground installs with a long warranty, the Hayward AquaRite or CircuPool RJ45+ are both excellent. For a budget-friendly Hayward replacement, the Pureline PL7700 is worth a look.
Whichever saltwater pool system you choose, plan on testing your water weekly, acid washing your cell two to three times per year, and replacing the cell every 3 to 7 years depending on the system. Done right, your pool water will feel softer, smell cleaner, and require far less chemical handling than a traditional chlorine setup.