Do you still have to add shock each week with the salt systems?

While salt systems do reduce the need for traditional chlorine shock treatments, they may still require occasional shocking to maintain proper sanitization levels. Salt systems generate chlorine through electrolysis, but they do not completely eliminate the need for additional chlorine. Here's why:

1. Chlorine Demand: The chlorine demand of a pool can vary based on factors such as bather load, temperature, and organic contaminants. During periods of high demand, such as heavy use or hot weather, the salt system may not be able to generate enough chlorine to meet the demand.

2. Cyanuric Acid: Cyanuric acid (CYA) is a stabilizer used in pools to protect chlorine from being degraded by sunlight. While CYA is essential for outdoor pools, it can also bind with chlorine, reducing its effectiveness. Over time, the CYA levels in a pool can increase, making it more difficult for the salt system to maintain adequate chlorine levels.

3. Biofilm Formation: Biofilms are communities of microorganisms that can form on pool surfaces and equipment. These biofilms can harbor bacteria and other contaminants that can consume chlorine and reduce its effectiveness. Regular shocking helps to break down biofilms and keep them from becoming a problem.

4. Seasonal Changes: The chlorine demand of a pool can fluctuate with the seasons. In cooler weather, when pool usage is lower, the salt system may be able to maintain adequate chlorine levels without shocking. However, during hot summer months, when pool usage is higher, shocking may be necessary to supplement the salt system's chlorine production.

Therefore, while salt systems significantly reduce the need for shocking compared to traditional chlorine pools, it's still generally recommended to shock your pool periodically, usually every 1-2 weeks, to ensure proper sanitization and prevent issues such as algae growth or cloudy water. The specific frequency may vary based on your pool's individual characteristics and usage.