A saltwater hot tub system might sound like a dream — fewer added chemicals, softer water, and less maintenance. But what actually goes into the process?
If you’re considering buying a new hot tub that includes one or converting to a saltwater system, it helps to know what to expect before the first soak.
Here’s a clear, step-by-step look at what happens when you install a saltwater hot tub system, and the newest system on the market that is making it easier than ever to enjoy the benefits of a salt spa.
First, what is a saltwater hot tub system?
If you’ve owned a traditional hot tub, you’re probably familiar with the drill: grab a test strip or liquid kit, swish it around, and compare the colors. Then, you add chlorine or bromine every few days to keep the water clean.
A saltwater hot tub works a bit differently. You add spa-grade salt to the water when you first fill it up. Then, through a process called electrolysis, the system converts the salt into chlorine to sanitize the water.
There are a few different types of saltwater systems out there. Some are built right into new hot tubs, while others can convert an existing chlorine spa. Some systems require you to manually adjust the chlorine output, while others are more advanced and automatically adjust based on how much you’re using your spa.
The Master Clear Salt System is one of those advanced, automatic options. Developed by Master Spas, it provides a user-friendly way to maintain clean water with the added bonus of water that feels softer and more balanced.
A step-by-step guide to saltwater hot tubs
If you’re familiar with traditional hot tubs, you might wonder how a saltwater system compares, especially when it comes to setup. Is it more complicated? Will it take extra work to get started?
The answer? No. Not really.
Starting up a saltwater hot tub is often simpler than people expect. With just a few basic steps, you can be on your way to enjoying cleaner, softer water right from the start.
Initial setup
Setting up a new saltwater hot tub begins with the obvious: salt and water.
Install the cartridge or cell: The type of technology your system uses to generate sanitizer can vary. Some salt systems use a cartridge installed directly into the spa shell, while others use a cell that fits into the filter area. If you have a Master Spas hot tub that is salt-ready, setup is designed to be easy. The Smart Cell fits easily in the filter area, and you simply twist it to lock it in place.
Add the salt: Once your cell is installed, it’s time to add salt to the water. Most systems call for about two pounds of spa-grade salt per 100 gallons of water. Be sure to use the type of salt recommended by the manufacturer. Regular table salt, pool salt, or salt with added minerals can interfere with how your system creates sanitizer.
Balance the water: Before you activate the system, double-check that your water is properly balanced. Adjust the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness as needed. Starting with fresh, balanced water helps your salt system work more effectively and helps you enjoy better water quality from the start.
System activation
How you activate your saltwater system can vary depending on your hot tub. Some systems are controlled through the spa’s topside panel, where you might manually adjust the chlorine output based on how often you plan to use the tub. Once it’s set, the system gets to work — converting salt into sanitizer and helping keep your water clean.
But the process of electrolysis does take time. If you want to use your hot tub right away, some manufacturers recommend adding dichlor granules to reach a safe level of sanitizer.
Activating the Master Clear Salt System
If you have a salt-ready Master Spas hot tub, activation is even easier. The controller is already installed if your spa is salt-ready. And once your hot tub is wired, the system will boot up and start generating sanitizer.
However, if you want to use your spa right away, you can add the Fast & Clear Water Boost. This product is a way to sanitize the water for more immediate use.
Want a convenient way to control your hot tub? You can use the Master Clear Salt System app to adjust the cycle settings or boost the system when needed. Boosting the system simply means starting a sanitation cycle outside of its normal schedule, like if you’ve had extra guests or a heavy-use weekend.
One of the great things about the Master Clear system is that it’s a smart system. It continuously monitors the salt and sanitizer levels, and it will run a cycle — but only when it’s needed. This helps avoid over-sanitizing the water, keeping it gentle on your skin and protecting the components of your spa.
Ongoing maintenance
Saltwater systems are often called “low-maintenance,” but that doesn’t mean you can forget about water care altogether. You’ll still need to check in on your spa to keep it running at its best.
Test the water regularly: Plan to check your pH and alkalinity at least once a week. Keeping these levels balanced helps the salt system work properly and keeps your water feeling great. Reference your owner’s manual for the recommended alkalinity, pH, and calcium hardness levels. For example, with the Master Clear system, the pH should be between 7.0 and 7.2.
Replace the cartridge or cell: How often you need to replace it will depend on your system. Some saltwater spas need a new cartridge every few months. With the Master Clear system, the Smart Cell is designed to last about a year before it needs replacing.
Keep an eye on the salt level: Salt doesn’t evaporate like water does, but adding fresh water (after splashes or topping off) can dilute it. If you ever need to add more salt, just follow the guidelines for your system. The Master Clear app makes it easy to keep track of salt levels, so you’re not guessing.
And here’s a bonus: With a saltwater hot tub, you likely won’t need to drain and refill your spa as often as you would with a traditional system. That’s more time soaking and less time spent on maintenance.
What the water feels like
One of the first things you might notice with a saltwater hot tub is how the water feels. Many people describe it as “silkier” and softer on the skin, with less of that drying feeling you sometimes get from a traditionally chlorinated spa.
You might also pick up on a difference in the smell. Because some systems generate sanitizer only as needed, the water tends to have a milder scent. It can make your soaks even more relaxing, especially if you’re sensitive to chemical odors.
And since the system is constantly working in the background to maintain sanitizer levels, you’re less likely to deal with big swings in water quality. That means fewer surprises like cloudy water or skin irritation, and more time simply enjoying your spa.
Potential considerations
Saltwater hot tubs come with a lot of perks, but it’s good to know they’re not the perfect fit for everyone. If you are considering a saltwater spa, here are a few things to consider.
Corrosion risk: Salt is gentler in the water, but it’s still salt. Over time, it can be more corrosive to certain parts of your spa. It’s important to make sure your spa, cover, and other accessories are saltwater-compatible. You can also rinse and clean those accessories regularly to help prevent buildup.
The Master Clear Salt System, though, operates at a lower salinity compared to other salt spas. For example, one saltwater system has a salt concentration of 1,750-2,200 parts per million (ppm). The Master Clear system is easier on spa components with a salinity of about 1,200 ppm.
Upfront investment: Saltwater systems typically cost a little more upfront, and you’ll need to replace the cartridge or Smart Cell from time to time. But many owners feel the added convenience and water quality are well worth it.
Still uses sanitizer: Even though it’s called a saltwater system, you’re not completely skipping out on sanitizer. Most systems actually generate chlorine from the salt in the water. You’ll still want to test your water regularly and make adjustments to levels such as pH and alkalinity as needed to keep things in balance.
Should you install a saltwater hot tub system?
Installing a saltwater hot tub system like the Master Clear Salt System can simplify your water care routine and improve your soaking experience. But it’s not completely hands-off, and it’s not totally chemical-free. That said, many users appreciate the softer feel of the water, the reduced maintenance, and the convenience of a set-it-and-forget-it approach to sanitation.