Automatic Chlorinators for Pools – Reliable Tablet Feeders for Consistent Sanitizing

Why Choose an Automatic Chlorinator?

Keeping your pool water perfectly balanced is all about consistency. Many pool owners use chlorine tablets in floating dispensers. However, for the best control, an automatic chlorinator is the best choice.

An automatic chlorinator is also called an inline or offline tablet feeder. It is installed directly in your pool’s circulation system. As water flows through, it slowly dissolves chlorine tablets. This gives a steady supply of sanitizer. You avoid the spikes and drops that come with manual dosing.

👉 Browse our full range of Automatic Chlorinators below, or pair with premium Chlorine Tablets for the perfect sanitizing system.

Quick Links

• What Is an Automatic Chlorinator?

• Benefits of Automatic Chlorinators

• Types of Automatic Chlorinators

• How to Choose the Right Automatic Chlorinator

• Installation & Safety Tips

• Alternatives to Automatic Chlorinators

• FAQs

• Conclusion

What Is an Automatic Chlorinator?

An automatic chlorinator is a specialized feeder that holds chlorine tablets and connects to your pool’s plumbing. Unlike floating chlorinators that move around the pool, automatic units are part of the circulation line. This setup allows for better control of sanitizer flow.

• Inline Chlorinator – Installed directly into the return line, water flows through it naturally.

• Offline Chlorinator – It connects with small hoses that attach to the return line. This is helpful if you can't cut into the plumbing.

Both versions let you control chlorine output with adjustable dials. This gives you better precision and automation than manual dosing.

👉 For portable solutions, see our Floating Chlorinators.

Benefits of Automatic Chlorinators

1. Consistent Sanitizer Levels
Chlorine is delivered steadily as water flows through the feeder, reducing peaks and valleys in sanitizer concentration.

2. Hands-Off Pool Care
Load tablets once, set the dial, and let the system handle the rest. Less day-to-day maintenance for you.

3. Adjustable Output
Fine-tune chlorine delivery based on pool size, season, and bather load. Perfect for busy homeowners or rental properties.

4. Safer Than Manual Dosing
Since tablets dissolve inside a sealed canister, swimmers aren’t directly exposed to concentrated chlorine.

5. Equipment Protection
When installed correctly after the heater and filter, automatic feeders prevent acidic water from damaging vital equipment.

👉 To check levels, pair with a Pool Test Kit and adjust as needed.

Types of Automatic Chlorinators

Inline Chlorinators

• Installed directly into PVC return lines.

• Compact and efficient.

• Best for new installations or when replumbing is easy.

Offline Chlorinators

• Connects to plumbing via small feed hoses.

• Easier to retrofit without cutting major lines.

• Good option for existing pool systems.

👉 For supplemental treatments, browse our Pool Shock Collection.

How to Choose the Right Automatic Chlorinator

When selecting a chlorinator, consider:

• Pool Size – Larger pools require higher-capacity feeders that hold more tablets.

• Tablet Size – Most automatic units are designed for 3” trichlor tablets. Verify compatibility before purchasing.

• Inline vs. Offline – Inline for new installs, offline for retrofits.

• Dial Adjustment Range – Wider ranges give you better seasonal control.

• Build Quality – UV-resistant plastics and chemical-resistant seals extend lifespan.

👉 For heavy-use pools, combine automatic chlorinators with Bulk Chlorine Tablets to save money.

Installation & Safety Tips

• Placement – Always install after the heater and filter to prevent corrosive water from cycling through equipment.

• One Chemical Type Only – Never switch between trichlor and cal-hypo tablets in the same feeder. Residual dust or residue can cause dangerous reactions.

• Use Proper Fittings – Follow manufacturer instructions to avoid leaks.

• Turn Off Pump First – Always shut down circulation before opening or refilling.

• Store Tablets Safely – Keep chlorine stored separately from other chemicals, especially cal-hypo.

👉 Need an alternative for off-season use? See our Liquid Chlorine Collection.

Alternatives to Automatic Chlorinators

While automatic feeders are highly effective, they’re not the only option:

• Floating Chlorinators – Affordable and portable for smaller pools.

• Saltwater Chlorination Systems – Convert salt into chlorine continuously, eliminating the need for tablets.

• Liquid Feed Systems – Used in commercial pools for precise dosing.

👉 Explore Saltwater Pool Systems for a hands-free chlorine solution.

FAQs

Q: Can I install an automatic chlorinator myself?
A: Yes, many pool owners install them with basic PVC tools, though professional installation ensures proper placement.

Q: Should I use trichlor or cal-hypo in my feeder?
A: Most automatic chlorinators are designed for trichlor tablets only. Cal-hypo should be kept in separate, dedicated feeders.

Q: How often do I need to refill tablets?
A: Typically every 1–2 weeks in summer, depending on pool size and usage.

Q: Can I control chlorine levels with the dial alone?
A: Yes, but always confirm with a Pool Test Kit to avoid over- or under-chlorination.

Q: Are automatic chlorinators safe for above-ground pools?
A: Absolutely — both inline and offline models work with above-ground systems.

Conclusion: Smarter Chlorination with Automatic Feeders

An automatic chlorinator is one of the most efficient, consistent, and low-maintenance ways to sanitize a pool. By automating chlorine delivery, it saves time, protects equipment, and keeps water sparkling with less guesswork.

• Inline units – great for new installations.

• Offline units – perfect for retrofits.

• Best paired with 3” trichlor tablets for steady sanitation.

👉 Upgrade your pool system today with an Automatic Chlorinator. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes from balanced water. Pair it with premium Chlorine Tablets for maximum performance.