Have you ever spent more time scrubbing your pool than actually swimming in it? Maintaining a backyard pool often feels like a full-time job, especially when you are constantly measuring and dumping harsh chlorine tablets into the water. If you are tired of itchy skin, burning eyes, and that strong chemical smell, you are not alone.
Switching to a Bestway Saltwater System is a game-changer for many pool owners, but the process can feel overwhelming. With different models, flow rates, and setup requirements, it is easy to feel stuck before you even begin. Many people worry about choosing the wrong system or struggling with a complicated installation that leaves them frustrated.
This guide is here to take the guesswork out of your upgrade. We will break down exactly how these systems work and help you identify the best model for your specific pool size. You will learn how to save money on maintenance, improve your water quality, and enjoy a much softer swimming experience all summer long.
Ready to transform your pool into a relaxing saltwater oasis? Let’s dive into everything you need to know to get your system up and running with total confidence.
Top Bestway Saltwater System Recommendations
- Ideal for pools with water capacities up to 15,000 gallons and a filter pump flow rate of at least 330 gallons for efficient and effective cleaning
- Converts salt into 12 grams of chlorine per hour, keeping your pool crystal clear while being gentle on skin, eyes, hair, and bathing suits
- Features an automatic self-cleaning mode and a green/red LED communication system to alert you of any issues, ensuring hassle-free pool maintenance
- Includes 3-in-1 test strips and saltwater test strips that use an instant color-match system to measure free chlorine, total alkalinity, and salt levels
- Includes a saltwater chlorinator, (5) 3-in-1 test strips, and 25 saltwater test strips
- ✔ UPGRADE TO A SALTWATER POOL – QS1200 saltwater system lets you enjoy the same process used for in-ground swimming pools to keep your above ground pool sparkling clear, suitable for pools up to 15,000 gallons.
- ✔ FRESH AND CLEAN WATER – Experience the benefits of upgrading your above ground pool to a saltwater pool; Using just salt, your pool is inexpensive to maintain and reduces chemical use to provide a safe swimming environment for you and your family.
- ✔ CONVENIENT OPERATION – The salt water system has an easy-to-use control panel with easy access buttons, including a built-in 24-hour timer and 3 self-cleaning modes that function on 6,10, or 14-hour cycles, providing easy scheduling with automatic operation; 2-year limited warranty included
- ✔ ADVANCED FILTERING SYSTEM – Simply connect to the 26669EG filter pump, add salt to your above ground pool water, and the rest is automatic through the system; requires a pump with a flow rate between 700 and 3,200 gph.
- ✔HYDROAERATION TECHNOLOGY BY INTEX -– Transforming the Above Ground Pool industry, by bringing revolutionary water aeration benefits such as improved circulation and filtration, improved water clarity, increased negative ions at the water surface.
- Gentle on Skin & Hair: Saltwater chlorinator uses salt to produce chlorine, allowing you to keep your pool clean without harsh chemicals. It's gentle on the eyes, skin, hair, and swimwear.
- Chemical-Free Clean: Add salt to the water, and the system will create a nearly scent-free, hygienic environment, producing 6 grams/hr of chlorine to keep your pool clean and clear.
- Versatile Compatibility: Use with pools up to 7,000 gal. and a filter pump flow rate of at least 330 gallons; Adapters are included to fit most above ground pools.
- Easy-to-Use System: Easy-to-use touch screen control panel features a self-locking function, self-cleaning mode, and a green/red LED communication system to alert you of any issues. The timer function allows you to set the system to run for 1-10 hours every 24 hours.
- Includes Test Strips: Comes with (50) 3-in-1 test strips that monitor free chlorine (0-10 ppm), pH (6.2-8.4), and total alkalinity (0-240 ppm), and (25) saltwater test strips that monitor salt (0-8,000 ppm).
- ✔ UPGRADE TO A SALTWATER POOL – QS500 saltwater system lets you enjoy the same process used for in-ground swimming pools to keep your above ground pool sparkling clear, suitable for pools up to 7,000 gallons.
- ✔ FRESH AND CLEAN WATER – Experience the benefits of upgrading your above ground pool to a saltwater pool; Using just salt, your pool is inexpensive to maintain and reduces chemical use to provide a safe swimming environment for you and your family.
- ✔ CONVENIENT OPERATION – The salt water system has an easy-to-use control panel with easy access buttons, including a built-in 24-hour timer and 3 self-cleaning modes that function on 6, 10, and 14-hour cycles, providing easy scheduling with automatic operation; 2-year limited warranty included
- ✔ ADVANCED FILTERING SYSTEM – Simply connect to the filter pump (sold separately), add salt to your above ground pool water, and the rest is automatic through the system; requires a pump with a flow rate between 700 and 3,200 gph.
- ✔HYDROAERATION TECHNOLOGY BY INTEX -– Transforming the Above Ground Pool industry, by bringing revolutionary water aeration benefits such as improved circulation and filtration, improved water clarity, increased negative ions at the water surface.
- ✔ FRESH AND CLEAN WATER – QX2600 uses sand for excellent filtration combined with the QS1200 saltwater system that allows you to use salt in your pool for soft, fresh, clean water and a safe swimming environment for you and your family. Suitable for 4,800 to 15,000-gallon pools.
- ✔ REDUCED CHEMICAL USE – By using the saltwater system, dissolved salt molecules pass through the electrolytic cells and are then split into chlorine to provide fresh and clean water. Chemical usage is reduced, and you've got an inexpensive way to maintain your pool.
- ✔ CONVENIENT OPERATION – The 26679EG salt water system includes a built-in 24-hour timer and 3 self-cleaning modes that function on 6,10, or 14-hour cycles, while the sand filter pump includes a built-in 24-hour timer with 2 to 12-hour pre-set cycles for easy scheduling
- ✔ LOW MAINTENANCE PUMP FEATURES – Requires virtually no maintenance since sand can last up to 5 years with regular backwashing. Includes a pump flow rate of 2,650 gph and a system flow rate of 2,150 gph. Partial assembly is required and includes (2) 1.5 inch (38 mm) connector hoses; 2-year limited warranty included
- ✔ HYDROAERATION TECHNOLOGY BY INTEX -– Transforming the Above Ground Pool industry, by bringing revolutionary water aeration benefits such as improved circulation and filtration, improved water clarity, increased negative ions at the water surface.
- ✔ EXCELLENT FILTRATION – SX3000 provides excellent water filtration with the 6-function valve that allows you to filter, backwash, rinse, re-circulate, drain and close the system.
- ✔ 24 HOUR TIMER – The sand pool pump has a built-in 24-hour timer with 2 to 12 hour pre-set cycles, providing easy scheduling and a hassle-free experience with automatic operation.
- ✔ EASY INSTALLATION – Just hook up hoses and plug in! This pump is suitable for INTEX above ground pools from 5,500 to 19,600 gallons. Partial assembly is required and includes (2) 1.5 inch (38 mm) connector hoses.
- ✔ LOW MAINTENANCE PUMP FEATURES – This 26651EG pump requires virtually no maintenance since sand can last up to 5 years with regular backwashing. Includes a capacity water flow rate of 3,000 gph (11,356 lph) and an in-pool system flow rate of 2,450 gph (9,274 lph); 2-year limited warranty included
- ✔ HYDROAERATION TECHNOLOGY BY INTEX -– Transforming the Above Ground Pool industry, by bringing revolutionary water aeration benefits such as improved circulation and filtration, improved water clarity, increased negative ions at the water surface.
- Clean and worry-free outdoor pool fun; Simple to use and easy to operate while outperforming standard cartridge filters
- Comes with a 6-function control that makes maintenance easy and gives multiple cleaning options while the strainer basket prolongs the life of the sand
- Hydro Aeration Technology improves circulation and filtration, water clarity, and increases negative ions in the water; Built-in 24-hour timer enables to set filtration times to save on daily maintenance
- Included Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump provides sanitized and sparkling, chemical-free pool water and replaces packaged chlorine with safe, natural, pure salt
- Pool pump and filter measures 26.25 inches long, 23.37 inches wide, 15.75 inches tall, weighs 45.84 pounds, tank size of 14 inches, and a 0.6 horsepower pump motor; Saltwater system weighs 18 pounds, 110 to 120 volts with GFCI and 5 gallons per hour chlorine output
- INTELLIGENT MONITORING AND PROTECTION: The Westaho salt pool system features an advanced intelligent control panel, displaying key information like salt levels, pool water temperature, total cell usage time, cell operating voltage, and current. This ensures you're always aware of your pool's health. It also includes low water temperature protection, automatically shutting down below 52°F to extend cell lifespan and care for your pool
- AMERICAN-MADE TITANIUM CELLS: Featuring 3 titanium cells made in the USA, extends its lifespan by up to 2800 hours, saving you money. It ensures stable and efficient performance, consistently delivering clean and safe water. Keeps a healthy and comfortable swimming environment for you
- SMART DESIGN: The innovative magnetic water flow switch ensures sensitivity and stability, eliminating the susceptibility to damage common with conventional mechanical switches. This saves you both time and money on maintenance and repairs
- SAVE YOUR MONEY: With Westaho salt chlorination system for above ground swimming pool , you can save a lot of money in chemicals, save your time on not having to buy and store chlorine, make your pool maintenance easier and more economical, enjoy crystal-clear water
- DESIGNED FOR AVOVE-GROUND SWIMMING POOLS: Compatible with Intex Pools, designed for above-ground pools of up to 15,000 gallons, boasting robust processing capabilities to deliver enduring and comfortable swimming experiences. IP66 waterproof rating ensures durability
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Bestway Saltwater Systems
Keeping a pool clean is hard work. Many pool owners choose the Bestway Saltwater System to make life easier. This system turns salt into natural chlorine. It keeps your water clear without the harsh smell of traditional chemicals. If you want a stress-free swimming season, this guide will help you choose the right model.
Key Features to Look For
- Self-Cleaning Mode: Look for a system that reverses its polarity. This prevents calcium buildup on the titanium plates.
- Flow Rate Compatibility: Check if the pump speed matches your pool size. A system that is too small will not clean your water well.
- Control Panel: Choose a model with an easy-to-read digital screen. You should be able to set the timer and chlorine output quickly.
- Salt Level Indicator: This feature tells you exactly when to add more salt. It takes the guesswork out of water maintenance.
Important Materials
Quality matters when it comes to pool equipment. Bestway uses high-grade titanium electrodes in their salt cells. These plates resist corrosion from salt water. The outer housing is made of durable, UV-resistant plastic. This ensures the unit stays strong even under the hot summer sun. Always check that the internal parts are sealed well to prevent water leaks.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Proper water chemistry improves the life of your system. You must keep the pH levels balanced. If the pH is too high, the system works harder and wears out faster. Regular maintenance also helps. You should clean the salt cell every few months. Using low-quality pool salt can also reduce the lifespan of your unit. Always use high-purity salt to avoid mineral buildup.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most users love the soft feel of saltwater on their skin. It does not itch like traditional chlorine. These systems are perfect for above-ground pools. Families with children enjoy the lack of strong chemical odors. The setup process is simple for most DIY enthusiasts. You can connect it to your existing pump in less than an hour. It is a great investment for those who want more time swimming and less time cleaning.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much salt do I need to add?
A: You usually need about 3,000 parts per million (ppm) of salt in your pool water.
Q: Does the saltwater system replace my filter pump?
A: No, the system works with your existing filter pump to sanitize the water.
Q: How often should I clean the salt cell?
A: You should inspect the cell every 3 months for calcium deposits.
Q: Will the water taste salty?
A: No, the salt level is much lower than the ocean. It is barely noticeable.
Q: Can I use this system with any pool?
A: It is designed specifically for Bestway above-ground pools. Check your model compatibility first.
Q: Does the system work in cold weather?
A: No, the system will not produce chlorine if the water is too cold. Turn it off during winter.
Q: Is the water safer for my skin?
A: Yes, many users find saltwater is much gentler on skin and eyes than liquid chlorine.
Q: How long does the titanium cell last?
A: With proper care, the cell can last for several swimming seasons.
Q: Can I use regular table salt?
A: No, never use table salt. Use specialized pool salt to avoid impurities.
Q: Is it hard to install the system?
A: Most users find the installation straightforward. The kit includes all the hoses and adapters you need.