Planning the Switch from Chlorine to a Saltwater Pool

If you’re seeking a fresh start for your swimming pool, consider converting to saltwater. This gentler, lower-maintenance alternative to a traditional chlorine pool promises immediate and ongoing benefits. Find out more about saltwater pools and whether this is the right choice for you.

What Is a Saltwater Pool, and How Does It Work?

A saltwater pool system uses a salt-chlorine generator to produce chlorine from the salt dissolved in the water. When saltwater flows through the generator, it undergoes a process called electrolysis, which converts the salt into hypochlorous acid. This compound acts as the sanitizer, disinfecting your pool water in the same way chlorine does, but without the need to manually add liquid or powder chlorine. As long as the salt-chlorine generator is running, the pool generates a consistent level of sanitization with fewer harsh chemicals in the water.

Some people assume a saltwater pool is akin to swimming in the ocean, but that’s not the case. Ocean water has an average salinity of 35,000 parts per million (ppm), but a saltwater pool has only about 3,000 ppm—just enough for the water to taste slightly salty. This means it’s much milder than seawater.

The Process of Switching from Chlorine to Saltwater

Converting an existing chlorine pool to saltwater is more straightforward than you might think. Here’s what’s involved:

• Balance the pool chemistry: Before making any changes, balance the water chemistry to ensure proper pH, alkalinity, and calcium levels. Balancing the water prepares it for the saltwater conversion, promoting a smooth transition.
• Choose and install a saltwater chlorine generator: The salt-chlorine generator is installed on the pool’s filtration system, where it processes the salt in the water and generates chlorine. Many people hire a professional for this step, as selecting the right generator and installing it correctly is the key to long-term efficiency.
• Add salt to the pool: Once the generator is in place, it’s time to add salt. The amount depends on your pool’s size, with the goal to achieve a salt concentration of 3,000 to 3,500 ppm. Pour salt directly into the pool, where it dissolves and circulates with the help of the pool pump. It takes up to 24 hours for the salt to dissolve completely.
• Monitor and adjust levels: Following the saltwater conversion, monitor the water’s chemical levels carefully. A saltwater pool still requires balanced pH and alkalinity to maintain clarity and equipment health. Regular testing ensures the generator produces the right amount of chlorine for safe, clear water.

Cost Differences Between Chlorine and Saltwater Pools

Switching to saltwater has an initial conversion cost. After that, the ongoing costs are lower in some areas but higher in others. Here’s what to expect.

Conversion Costs

The initial cost of converting a traditional pool to saltwater depends on the size of your pool and the salt-chlorine generator you choose. The typical price range is $1,500 to $2,500, including the generator and any additional materials needed for installation. If you hire a professional, labor costs may add a few hundred dollars.

In addition to a generator, you’ll need to buy pool-grade salt (99% pure sodium chloride), which typically costs between $0.25 and $0.63 per pound. For an average 20,000-gallon pool, expect to use 500 to 600 pounds of salt, which may cost $125 to $380. Fortunately, salt is a one-time purchase, with only small quantities needed occasionally to maintain the proper salinity.

It’s also important to note that salt water is corrosive, causing wear and tear on certain pool parts if proper precautions aren’t taken. Unless your pool already has salt-resistant materials and equipment, like titanium ladders and handrails and heavy-duty plastic light fixtures, you may want to invest in replacements. Regularly rinsing metal parts in and around the pool with fresh water is another way to reduce corrosion.

Short-Term Maintenance Costs

A saltwater pool generally has lower yearly maintenance costs than a chlorine pool. Since the generator continuously produces chlorine, you won’t need to buy liquid chlorine or tablets. You may spend more on initial pH adjusters or alkalinity increasers as you fine-tune the water chemistry, but these costs are minimal. On average, saltwater pool owners save $300 to $800 annually on chemical costs.

Operating Costs

The saltwater generator must run 12 to 24 hours a day to maintain adequate chlorine levels, especially in hot weather or high-use periods. This increases your electricity bill slightly compared to a chlorine pool, where the pump may run eight to 12 hours a day.

Long-Term Equipment Replacement

The salt-chlorine generator’s cell, responsible for producing chlorine, has a lifespan of 3 to 7 years. Replacing the cell may cost $800 to $2,000, depending on the brand and model. Be prepared for this ongoing cost when you invest in a saltwater pool.

Benefits of Saltwater Over Chlorine Pools

While costs are a consideration, many chlorine pool owners have other motives for converting to a saltwater pool. Here are some reasons they have gained popularity recently:

• Gentle on skin, eyes, and hair: Saltwater pools make swimming more pleasant, especially for those sensitive to chlorine, as it doesn’t cause red eyes, itchy skin, or dry hair. The water’s softer, more natural feel creates a spa-like experience, a significant upgrade if you swim frequently.
• Reduced chlorine odor: Saltwater pools lack the distinctive chlorine smell found in traditional pools. Because chlorine is produced at lower, more consistent levels, the pool doesn’t emit a strong chemical odor, which is good for your lungs and creates a better atmosphere around the water.
• Lower maintenance requirements: A saltwater pool largely maintains itself once the salt-chlorine generator is running. Pool owners enjoy fewer chemical purchases and less frequent testing. However, it’s still necessary to check pH and alkalinity levels regularly and adjust as needed.
• Eco-friendly choice: Eliminating the need for regular chemical additives makes saltwater pools more sustainable. They reduce chemical runoff and are safer for surrounding plants and landscaping.

The Bottom Line

Switching from chlorine to saltwater is a big decision, and you may arrive at a different conclusion than your neighbor. If you’re looking for a swimming experience that’s easier on your skin, eyes, and lungs, and you prefer lower maintenance requirements, a saltwater pool may be worth the investment. However, if you’re not interested in upgrading your equipment or occasionally replacing the generator cell, a chlorine pool might still suit your needs.

Why Choose Aaron Pools and Spas?

If you’re ready to convert your pool to saltwater, trust Aaron Pools and Spas for a seamless transition. Serving the Boston area for over 50 years, we specialize in customized pool design and installation, with every service handled by our in-house team. We’re your one-stop shop, offering everything from saltwater conversions to patio installations. Contact us today for a free quote in the Dartmouth, MA, area.