Salt generator: how does a salt climate device work?

A salt generator (also called a salt climate device, salt nebuliser or salt therapy device) creates a dry, salty microclimate similar to that of a salt mine in the air of an enclosed room. Many people confuse it with a salt lamp or a saltwater diffuser, but it works in an entirely different way. In this article we show step by step what happens inside the device and what you can expect when using it.

How it works, step by step

1. Raw material: pure, dry rock salt with no additives goes into the device.
2. Grinding and dispersing: the device breaks the salt down into very fine particles. Most of them are between 0.5 and 5 micrometres, roughly one hundredth of the thickness of a human hair.
3. Electrical charge: in AREC technology the salt particles receive an electrical charge, so they spread more evenly in the air and clump together less.
4. Distribution: a fan blows the fine salt powder into the room, where the people present breathe it in through normal breathing.

Why particle size matters

The path an inhaled particle takes is determined mainly by its size. Larger particles are caught in the nose and throat, while particles of a few micrometres can travel deeper, as far as the smaller bronchi. On the moist surface of the airways the salt dissolves and temporarily increases the salt content of the fluid layer covering the mucous membrane. This is the theory behind why many people find a salt climate pleasant and "refreshing" for the airways.

It is important to note, however, that no large, well-controlled studies have yet been carried out on the effect of salt generators. The positive experiences come mainly from user reports and smaller studies, which is why we recommend a salt climate as a complementary option that supports wellbeing.

Salt generator, salt lamp, diffuser: what's the difference?

• Salt lamp and salt bricks: beautiful and atmospheric, but they release no meaningful amount of salt into the air, because salt does not evaporate on its own.
• Saltwater diffuser: the mist consists of large, wet droplets that settle mainly in the upper airways. It can be pleasant, but it is a different experience from a dry salt climate.
• Salt generator: actively produces fine, dry salt particles, so it comes closest to the climate of a salt mine.

You can read more about the differences in our comparison of salt rooms, salt caves and salt generators.

The background of AREC salt climate technology

In 1992, AREC was the first in Hungary to introduce climate rooms based on salt climate technology. We have been continuously developing our devices ever since, and the salt concentration of our climate rooms has also been documented by official measurement. We offer two kinds of devices:

• Business salt generator (SaltClimate PRO): for salt rooms, wellness providers, kindergartens and other institutions, and larger spaces.
• Family salt generator (SaltClimate Family): for home use. It needs a closed room of at least 6 m³ and can also fill larger rooms. You buy it directly from us.

What to keep in mind when using it

• Always use the duration and settings given in the manufacturer's instructions.
• Breathe normally and calmly during the session; there is no need to take deep breaths.
• Do not use it when you have a fever, an acute infection or an asthma flare-up.
• A mild extra cough at the start of a course is expected. If wheezing, breathlessness or chest tightness occurs, switch the device off and seek medical advice.
• A salt generator does not replace medication prescribed by your doctor.

Frequently asked questions

Will the room get salty? The device releases a very small amount of fine salt into the air. Over time a thin layer of salt may settle on surfaces, which is easy to wipe off with a damp cloth. Keep electronic devices out of the room during use.

What kind of salt does it use? Only the pure, dry rock salt specified by the manufacturer. Table salt or iodised salt with anti-caking agents is not suitable.

Is it portable? The family device is compact, so you can take it with you when you move house or go on a longer holiday.

What if it needs repairing? We carry out warranty and other repairs in Hajdúszoboszló: you can bring the device in person or send it by post.

Do you have a question about how the salt climate device works or which one to choose? Contact our team!

This article is for general information only and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. AREC salt generators are not medical devices.