Transform Your Pool: A Complete Guide to Chlorine Generators and Where to Buy Them in the UK

Why a Chlorine Generator Might Be the Best Upgrade for Your Pool

If you've been tired of hauling heavy bottles of chlorine, battling skin and eye irritation, or constantly chasing the right chemical balance, a chlorine generator (also called a salt chlorinator or electrolytic chlorinator) could be a game changer. These systems use salt and electrolysis to produce chlorine on-site, meaning you get steady sanitisation with less daily fuss. Think of it as switching from bottled gas to a mains supply—more consistent, less heavy lifting.

Beyond convenience, many pool owners notice gentler water and fewer strong chemical smells. Salt chlorination often results in softer-feeling water that’s kinder to swimwear and pool liners, which is great if your family swims often or you host frequent gatherings. But like any upgrade, the right model depends on your pool size, budget, and how involved you want to be with maintenance.

Which UK Retailers Sell Chlorine Generators?

In the UK there’s a healthy mix of big-name DIY chains and specialist pool retailers that stock chlorine generators and replacement cells. Popular national outlets such as B&Q and Screwfix offer a selection for small to medium pools and can be handy for quick buys. For a wider range of specialist and brand-specific models, look to pool-focused retailers like Poolstore, The Pool Shop, Poolcare, and specialist online sellers that offer tech support and installation advice.

Marketplaces like Amazon UK and eBay also sell chlorinators and replacement parts, often with buyer reviews that help gauge real-world reliability. For top-tier brands—Hayward, Zodiac, AstralPool, Jandy—check both official UK dealers and specialist pool shops, because they’ll typically stock the full range and spare cells.

Big-Box Options: B&Q, Wickes and Screwfix

If convenience and local pick-up matter, large DIY chains such as B&Q, Wickes, and Screwfix are convenient starting points. These stores commonly carry entry-level to mid-range units and replacement parts, making them suitable for homeowners who prefer to buy in person and get quick returns. Their stock tends toward straightforward, lower-complexity systems that suit above-ground and smaller in-ground pools.

Specialist Pool Retailers and Online Shops

For a broader, more technical selection, turn to specialist retailers like Poolstore.co.uk, The Pool Shop, Poolcare, and dedicated brand dealers. These shops often provide in-depth product specs, installation guides, and technical support. They’re the best choice if you’re after commercial-grade chlorinators or have a large pool requiring higher-output units.

Top Brands to Look For

Brands matter with chlorinators. Hayward and Zodiac are among the most recognised names with robust warranties and widely available spare parts. AstralPool and Jandy also make durable, feature-rich units for larger pools. Brand choice affects availability of replacement cells and local service—so consider reputation alongside price.

Don’t forget budget-friendly options too: several lesser-known manufacturers offer solid entry-level models that perform well for smaller residential pools. Buying from a reputable UK retailer ensures you can get a replacement cell shipped quickly when the time comes.

How to Choose the Right Size Chlorine Generator

Choosing the correct chlorinator comes down to pool volume. Under-sizing leads to weak sanitisation; over-sizing wastes money. Start by calculating your pool’s volume in gallons, because chlorinator output is usually specified against gallon ratings.

Calculate Your Pool Volume (in gallons)

Measure your pool in feet. For a rectangular pool: multiply length × width × average depth × 7.5. For example, a 20 ft × 40 ft pool with an average depth of 5 ft holds about 30,000 gallons (20 × 40 × 5 × 7.5 = 30,000). For round pools, use the circular volume formula with radius squared × pi × depth × 7.5, but keep measurements in feet before multiplying by 7.5 to convert cubic feet to gallons.

Once you have the gallon total, match it to a chlorinator’s rated capacity. Retailers and manuals usually list models by how many gallons they can handle—choose a unit with some headroom, especially if you'll increase pool usage or run the system intermittently.

Installation: DIY or Professional?

Smaller units for above-ground or simple setups can often be installed by a competent DIYer following the manufacturer’s instructions. You'll typically mount the control box, plumb the cell into the return line, and wire the power supply—simple in principle, but it involves electricity and plumbing, so safety matters.

For in-ground pools, larger systems, or if your setup needs an electrical circuit upgrade, hiring a qualified pool technician or electrician is wise. Many specialist retailers offer installation services or can recommend local contractors. Budget for professional installation if you want peace of mind and to protect warranty conditions.

Running Costs and Maintenance

While salt chlorinators save on buying bottled chlorine, they’re not maintenance-free. Expect the main ongoing cost to be replacement cells, which typically last several years depending on use and water chemistry. Cells usually wear down over time due to mineral build-up and electrolysis, so factor in a replacement every few seasons for moderate use.

Energy costs for running the unit are generally modest—most residential systems run a few hours each day rather than 24/7. Your exact runtime depends on pool size, weather, and swimmer load. To keep the cell healthy, maintain balanced water chemistry (pH, alkalinity) and clean the cell occasionally per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Typical Price Ranges

On a tight budget, entry-level chlorinators for small pools can start around a few hundred pounds. Mid-range, reliable units suitable for average in-ground pools commonly sit in the mid-thousands of pounds, while commercial or high-output systems for very large pools can run higher. Specialist dealers often bundle installation and accessories, so compare total installed cost, not just the headline price.

Comparing Features: What to Prioritise

When comparing units at retailers, focus on a few core features: cell output capacity (gallons rating), cell warranty length, ease of cell replacement, electronic controls (timer, output adjustment), salt level window, and whether the model includes a built-in flow switch or remote control capability. More advanced models may offer automatic pH dosing integration or smartphone monitoring—nice extras but not essential for many homeowners.

Also check how easy it is to get replacement cells in the UK. A cheaper upfront unit may cost more in the long run if parts are hard to source or shipping from abroad is expensive.

Pro Tips for Buying from UK Stores

Compare prices and total cost with installation. Big-box stores might be cheaper for the unit but won’t always offer installation or the same level of technical backup as specialist shops. Specialist pool retailers often provide free sizing advice, warranty support, and local installer recommendations—features that matter when you’re dealing with electrics and water.

Read customer reviews and ask retailers about cell availability in the UK. Ask for an estimate on replacement cell lead times and shipping costs, especially if the model is imported. A good retailer will be upfront about maintenance needs and likely running costs.

Salt Levels and Water Balance

Salt chlorinators rely on a specific salt concentration to work properly, typically measured in parts per million (ppm). Most systems operate well in a range around 3,000 ppm to 4,000 ppm, though manufacturers give exact figures. Too low and the unit can’t generate enough chlorine; too high and you risk corrosion issues. Always add salt gradually, and use a good quality salt recommended by the manufacturer.

Maintaining pH and alkalinity is also crucial. If pH drifts out of range, chlorine production efficiency drops and cell scaling accelerates. Regular testing—at least weekly during heavy use—keeps the system healthy and extends the cell lifespan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buy the right size: underpowered units struggle and cost more in the long run. Neglecting water balance is another common pitfall—without proper pH and alkalinity control, cells deteriorate faster. Finally, don’t ignore spare parts: buy a replacement cell for peace of mind if the model you like has long lead times for spares.

And avoid impulse upgrades—if your pool is small or you only use it occasionally, a simple, lower-output chlorinator is often a smarter buy than a high-end commercial unit.

Where to Get Help and Advice in the UK

If you need tailored advice, specialist pool shops and online retailers are the best starting point. They can help you size the unit, recommend installers, and explain warranty terms in plain English. Many also publish guides and calculators to estimate your pool’s gallon volume and suggest suitable models.

Forums and homeowner groups are also useful for real-world feedback—look for UK-specific pool owner communities, because local climate and water hardness can influence how systems perform and how often cells need replacing.

When researching, use comparison sites to shortlist models and then contact retailers directly for quotes and availability. That combination of broad market view and local support usually gets the best deal and service.

Final Checklist Before You Buy

Ask yourself these quick questions before pulling the trigger: What is my pool’s gallon capacity? Is my pool indoor or outdoor? Do I want remote monitoring? Can I install this myself or will I hire a pro? How easy is it to get replacement cells locally? Do I need any plumbing or electrical upgrades? If you can answer each clearly, you’ll be in a strong position to choose the right chlorinator and the right retailer.

Comparing multiple UK retailers—big chains for convenience and specialist shops for expertise—gives you both price perspective and technical support. Keep an eye on spare parts availability and warranty length; those two details matter more than the initial sticker price.

Conclusion: Moving to a salt chlorinator can simplify pool ownership and make swimming more enjoyable, but success depends on choosing the right size, brand, and retailer for your needs. Take your time, measure your pool in feet and gallons, consult specialist shops for bespoke advice, and don’t forget to factor in cell replacement and installation costs when you compare offers.