How Much Salt Do You Need for a Pool: Calculation Table 2026
A pool with a salt chlorinator needs 3-4 kg of salt per 1 m³ of water. For example, a 30 m³ pool requires 90-120 kg of salt for the initial fill. After that, you only need to maintain the level: about 10-20 kg per month depending on usage.
Salt dosage table by pool volume
| Pool volume | Initial fill (3500 ppm) | Bags (25 kg) | Low-salt systems (2000 ppm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 m³ | 17.5 kg | 1 | 10 kg |
| 10 m³ | 35 kg | 2 | 20 kg |
| 20 m³ | 70 kg | 3 | 40 kg |
| 30 m³ | 105 kg | 5 | 60 kg |
| 50 m³ | 175 kg | 7 | 100 kg |
| 80 m³ | 280 kg | 12 | 160 kg |
| 100 m³ | 350 kg | 14 | 200 kg |
Calculation formula
Salt (kg) = Pool volume (m³) × 3.5
This gives the standard concentration of 3500 ppm. For low-salt systems (Intex, Bestway), multiply by 2.0 instead of 3.5.
Example: 25 m³ pool → 25 × 3.5 = 87.5 kg → buy 4 bags of 25 kg.
Use our free salt consumption calculator for automatic calculations with product recommendations.
Monthly salt consumption
Salt doesn't evaporate - you only lose it through filter backwash, splashing, partial water changes, and heavy rain.
| Pool volume | Outdoor (5 months) | Indoor (12 months) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 m³ | 1.5 kg/month | 1 kg/month |
| 30 m³ | 4.5 kg/month | 3 kg/month |
| 50 m³ | 7.5 kg/month | 5 kg/month |
Which salt to use
NaCl 99.5%+, no iodine, no anti-caking agents. Tablet salt for regular top-ups, granulated for initial fill.
Never use: iodized kitchen salt, sea salt, or technical salt - they damage the electrolytic cell.
Browse our pool salt catalog or order wholesale.
FAQ
How much salt for an Intex pool?
Intex uses low-salt systems: 2 kg per 1 m³ (2000 ppm). A typical Intex 10 m³ pool needs 20 kg - 1 bag.
How often should I add salt?
Test weekly. Typically add salt 1-2 times per month, after filter backwash or heavy rain. Salt doesn't evaporate.
Can I use regular table salt?
No. Iodized salt contains additives that damage the chlorinator cell. Use pool-grade salt with NaCl 99.5%+.