Pool Chlorinator Buying Guide
Pool Chlorinator Buying Guide
Find the right chlorinator for your pool size · All brands we stock
Choosing the right chlorinator shouldn't be complicated.
A chlorinator is one of the most important pieces of equipment in your pool — it keeps your water sanitised automatically so you don't have to manually dose chemicals every day. This guide explains the different types, what suits each pool size, and which brands and models we stock at Drive In Pool & Spa Warehouse.
What does a chlorinator do?
A salt chlorinator (also called a saltwater chlorinator or salt cell) converts dissolved salt in your pool water into chlorine through a process called electrolysis. The chlorine sanitises the water, then converts back to salt — creating a continuous, automatic cycle. The result is consistently clean water with less manual effort, softer water on skin and eyes, and lower ongoing chemical costs compared to manually dosing chlorine.
Types of Chlorinators
Salt Chlorinator
The most common type for Australian pools. Uses dissolved salt (usually 3,000–6,000 ppm) and a electrolytic cell to produce chlorine automatically. Low maintenance, soft water feel, cost-effective long term.
Mineral / Low Salt
Uses a blend of minerals (magnesium, potassium) alongside a low-salt electrolytic process. Produces an even softer water feel — popular with families and those with sensitive skin. Requires specific mineral blends.
Self-Cleaning Cell
Automatically reverses polarity to clean calcium buildup off the cell plates — extending cell life and reducing maintenance. Highly recommended in areas with hard water. Most mid-range and premium models include this.
Which Chlorinator for Your Pool Size?
Match your pool's approximate volume to find the right output (grams/hour)
Recommended Models
- Saltmate SMT120Saltmate
- Maytronics ES20Maytronics
- Astral E25Astral
- Madimack inverCHLOR 200Madimack
Look for 15–20g/hr output. Self-cleaning cell recommended.
Recommended Models
- Saltmate SMT150Saltmate
- Maytronics ES25Maytronics
- Saltmate RP20Saltmate
- Madimack inverCHLOR 300Madimack
- Astral E25Astral
- Astral VX7TAstral
- Vapure 25Vapure
- Vapure 25 Low SaltVapure
- Watermaid RP7Watermaid
- Watermaid RP13Watermaid
Look for 25–35g/hr output. Timer included recommended.
Recommended Models
- Saltmate SMT200Saltmate
- Saltmate RP30Saltmate
- Maytronics ES35Maytronics
- Madimack inverCHLOR 400Madimack
- Watermaid RP9Watermaid
- Astral E35Astral
- Astral VX9TAstral
- Vapure 35Vapure
- Vapure 35 Low SaltVapure
Look for 35–45g/hr output. Self-cleaning cell essential.
Recommended Models
- Saltmate RP40Saltmate
- Astral VX11TAstral
- Watermaid RP11Watermaid
- Vapure 45Vapure
- Maytronics ES40Maytronics
Look for 45g/hr+ output. Multiple cell models available.
Recommended Models
- Vapure 55Vapure
High-output commercial-grade chlorination. Contact our team for advice.
Brands We Stock
One of Australia's most trusted pool equipment brands. The VX Series features digital controls and timer functionality. The E25 is a popular mid-range choice for medium pools. All Astral chlorinators include self-cleaning cells.
Excellent value Australian brand with a wide range from entry-level SMT models to the self-cleaning RP series. A great choice for budget-conscious buyers who don't want to compromise on reliability.
Premium self-cleaning salt chlorinators from the same brand behind Dolphin robotic cleaners. The EcoSwim range is known for its long cell life, smart controls and quiet operation. A top pick for quality-focused buyers.
Innovative inverter-driven chlorinator technology that uses significantly less power than traditional models. The inverCHLOR range is energy-efficient, quiet, and smart-home compatible — ideal for eco-conscious pool owners.
Australian-made mineral and low-salt chlorination systems. The Ecoblend range produces an exceptionally soft water feel using a blend of minerals. Popular with families wanting the best water quality experience.
Advanced salt and mineral chlorination system combining the benefits of both technologies in one unit. A premium option for pool owners wanting maximum water quality and comfort.
Key Things to Consider
Choose a chlorinator rated for a slightly larger pool than yours — it runs at lower output and lasts longer.
If your water is hard or you want less maintenance, choose a model with a self-cleaning (auto-reversing) cell.
A built-in timer lets you schedule chlorination to run during off-peak electricity hours, saving money.
If soft, silky water is a priority — especially for kids or sensitive skin — consider a mineral system like Watermaid Ecoblend or Vapure.
Inverter-driven models like the Madimack inverCHLOR use less electricity and run quieter than traditional fixed-speed models.
Check the warranty on both the control box and the cell separately — cell life is typically 3–7 years depending on the model and usage.
Ready to choose your chlorinator?
Browse our full range of in-stock chlorinators with fast Australia-wide shipping, or contact our team for a personal recommendation based on your pool.
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