Pool Salt Calculator
Calculate exactly how much salt to add to your saltwater pool. Enter your pool volume, current salinity, and target level to get precise measurements.
Salt Needed
400.3
pounds
181.6
kilograms
11
40-lb bags
Add salt gradually over 24-48 hours. Test salinity after each addition.
Saltwater Pool Salt Guide
Saltwater pools use a salt chlorine generator to convert dissolved salt into chlorine through electrolysis. Most systems require a salt concentration between 2,700 and 3,400 parts per million (PPM), with 3,200 PPM being the ideal target. For reference, ocean water is about 35,000 PPM—roughly ten times saltier than a pool.
Use only pure, food-grade salt without additives. Pool-specific salt is available but any pure sodium chloride (NaCl) at 99%+ purity works. Avoid rock salt with visible impurities, iodized salt, and salt with anti-caking agents. Solar salt and evaporated salt are both suitable. Add salt to the deep end of the pool with the pump running and allow 24 hours for full dissolution before testing.
Common Pool Salt Questions
How often do I add salt?
Salt does not evaporate or get consumed by the chlorine generator. You mainly lose salt through splash-out, backwashing, and dilution from rain. Most pools need salt added 1-2 times per season.
Can I use Himalayan salt in my pool?
While Himalayan salt is technically sodium chloride, it contains trace minerals that can stain pool surfaces and affect water chemistry. Use only white, pure pool salt or food-grade sodium chloride.
What if salt is too high?
The only way to lower salt concentration is to partially drain the pool and refill with fresh water. Most salt generators have a maximum tolerance of 4,000-4,500 PPM and will shut off if levels are too high.