Converting Your Pool From Chlorine to Saltwater Is Easier Than You'd Think

Growing up in a beach town, I learned to love saltwater swimming and its healing benefits. While swimming pools offer a cushier, more convenient experience than ocean swimming, they often use chemical chlorine to stave off bacteria. Plus, fluctuating chlorine levels can cause algae growth and irritate sensitive eyes and skin. Not to mention chlorine's abrasive odor.

Many homes, hotels and resorts now feature saltwater pools as a natural alternative to chlorine. Much like its chemical counterpart, salt kills potentially harmful bacteria and keeps pesky algae from blooming.

The good news is that chlorinated pools can easily be converted to saltwater pools. I spoke with the experts at Leslie's Pool Supplies and leading pool technology manufacturer Hayward to understand the process of switching to saltwater, including what's involved: costs -- both short- and long-term -- benefits, drawbacks and key considerations before starting a saltwater conversion.

Why saltwater pools may be better for you

Saltwater pools are perceived as a healthier, more natural alternative to chlorinated pools. Converting one to salt isn't a lengthy or complex process.

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According to Alicia Toedter, an on-staff expert at Leslie's Pool Supplies, homeowners often choose to convert their traditional chlorine pools since saltwater pools are often perceived as gentler on the skin and eyes, reducing irritation commonly associated with traditional pools. 

Saltwater pools tend to have a softer, more natural feel to their water, and users report less of that strong chlorine-like odor caused by chloramines, which are common in traditional pools.

Finally, saltwater pools are typically easier and cheaper to maintain since they require fewer chemicals, despite the bigger upfront or conversion cost. 

How do you convert a pool from chlorine to saltwater?

Once the salt cell is fitted into your existing pool plumbing, you're mostly done. 

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The conversion process from chlorine to saltwater is surprisingly simple. All that's needed is a piece of equipment called a salt cell, or salt chlorinator. The process involves installing it into the pool's existing plumbing, balancing the pool's chemistry, adding pool-grade salt and allowing the pump to run for 24–48 hours so the salt fully dissolves and integrates with the water. 

That's about it.

Once the salt is dissolved, the system is operational. The salt cell now turns simple sodium chloride (salt) into natural chlorine as it passes through the pump and filter and is pushed back out into the pool.

When chlorine levels reach the ideal range of 1 to 4 parts per million (ppm), the pool is ready to use. It's important to balance the water chemistry during and after the conversion to promote optimal system performance, ensure the water is safe and protect the pool against damaging water imbalances.

How much does it cost to convert a chlorine pool to saltwater?

The salt cell is the most important piece of equipment for converting your pool. It typically costs around $500.

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How much you spend on your saltwater pool conversion depends on the pool setup, the type of system you purchase and whether or not you install it yourself or have it professionally installed. Most saltwater conversions cost between $1,500 to $2,500, according to Toedter.

Pools with existing chlorine systems may need to be fitted or refitted with new pipes and plumbing to accommodate the salt cell, but it's not typically something that takes more than a few hours. (Note: Pools with metal walls or large metal components may not be a fit for conversion due to salt's corrosive properties.)

The biggest expense is the salt cell, which can range anywhere from $500 to $1,000, and the pilot system to operate it, which is typically another $500 to $1,000. The volume of your pool may require a more advanced system but most can handle pools up to 40,000 gallons. 

If you aren't going to set it up yourself, installation pricing varies greatly from region to region. Your pool's existing setup will also play a factor in the pricing here. But you can expect to pay somewhere between $500 and $1,000 for labor. 

All of the pool pros I spoke with recommended Hayward for a saltwater conversion. 

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Despite a large number of pool supply manufacturers, Hayward is at the top of every pool tech's list for overall quality, ease of use and long-term reliability. That last characteristic is important: If you're going to go through the trouble of paying for and converting your pool to a new system, you'll want to choose one that lasts years and functions at a high level. 

Constant use, harsh weather and a barrage of saltwater can break certain equipment down faster than chlorine pools would. And cheaper systems may yield a significantly shorter life. Hayward salt cells start at around $500and full systems range from $1,000 to $2,000.

Above-ground equipment is often a few hundred dollars cheaper than in-ground since the total number of gallons is often significantly less. 

What about saltwater pool maintenance?

Saltwater pools are often easier on the skin and eyes and require less maintenance than their chlorinated counterparts.

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Saltwater pools really only require that you add salt when levels get low, but that should only happen when water is lost through evaporation or splashing and has to be replaced with fresh water. 

Conversely, chlorine pools must have chlorine added every few months, making saltwater the clear winner with regard to long-term care and maintenance. As with any pool, you'll still need to regularly check the water's pH and alkalinity levels, clean the filters and run the pump for 8–10 hours daily.