Properly winterizing your saltwater pool is essential in Michigan, where freezing temperatures can cause serious damage if equipment isn’t handled correctly. While the overall pool-closing process is similar to any other pool, saltwater systems require one important extra step: protecting the salt cell during winter.

Salt cells stop producing chlorine once water temperatures drop below about 50–60°F. This is normal and helps preserve the life of the system, since colder water reduces chlorine demand and limits algae and bacteria growth. During this time, pool sanitation is typically maintained with traditional chlorine methods.

Because Michigan winters bring prolonged freezing conditions, salt cells should be removed, cleaned, and stored indoors before closing the pool. Leaving a salt cell installed can lead to freeze damage if trapped water expands inside the unit, potentially cracking the housing or damaging the internal plates—often resulting in costly replacement.

Many pool owners choose to install a dummy cell in place of the salt cell for winter. This keeps plumbing properly aligned and protected through seasonal freeze-thaw cycles, making spring start-up easier and safer.

If you reopen your pool in spring and notice low chlorine levels, winter damage to the salt cell may be the cause. The best solution is prevention—removing and storing the salt cell each winter helps protect your investment and ensures your pool is ready for the season ahead.

For professional pool plaster finishes for residential and commercial applications—including ceramic tile repair and replacement, porcelain and glass tile, frost-proof coping replacement, and more—contact Pound Pool in southeast Michigan to schedule a consultation.

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.