Converting a chlorine pool to a salt water pool requires three very important things – a salt chlorinator system, something called a sacrificial anode, and pool salt. The salt chlorinator system is the system that will replace your traditional chlorine system.
Homeowners should expect to pay $500 to $2,500 on average to convert their chlorinated pool into a saltwater pool. Factors that can influence this cost include the size and type of pool you already have, and if it requires any additional work to your outdoor living space in the process.
A salt water pool conversion is a lot easier than you might think. The addition of a salt system with a natural chlorine generator will transform any existing chemical chlorine pool so you can experience soft and luxurious water.
Most salt water systems are compatible with any pump and filter system you may have, so all you'll need to do is add a new piece of equipment (the salt system) and some salt!
Setting up a saltwater pool or converting your pool to a salt system involves more than just pouring salt in the pool. If you add salt without using a chlorine generator, then all you'll have is salty pool water. But essentially, you just pour salt into the pool — a lot of salt.
The only equipment you need to convert your pool is the salt water chlorine generating system. Purchase a system, such as the AquaRite, consisting of a control box and a salt cell. The control box is no bigger than a lunch box and it is installed on a wall.
Answer: It depends on a few factors. 1) are you closing your pool every year and therefore draining and refilling with fresh water at least a bit. 2) water chemistry - the more you have to add, the more your total dissolved solids will increase leading to the need to drain and refill.
In addition to health factors, saltwater pools are much lower maintenance than chlorine systems and thus more user-friendly. You don't need algaecides because the system naturally helps prevent algae from growing on the walls or in the water. The chlorine generator does the work for you.
A saltwater pool costs about $70-$120 per year (salt), where a chlorine pool costs $300-$800 (chemical chlorine). So even with the added cost of running a salt water generator, saltwater pools are still cheaper than chlorine pools.
Users of chlorinated pools know that harsh after-swim feeling well: dried-out skin; burning eyes; hair stripped of oils. After swimming in a saltwater pool, a user's skin may feel supple and moisturized, not dry. Without caustic chlorine, swimsuits and towels last longer and keep their colors.
The salt should be broadcast across the pool surface. It may take up to 24 hours to fully dissolve. Mount the chlorinator controller on a wall near your pool equipment pad. Wire the chlorinator controller for power according to the manual specifications.
While salt water pools are slightly more expensive to install and run, they offer a better experience with less irritation to the skin, eyes, and even hair. Salt water is also less harsh on swimsuits and pool accessories. As a result, some homeowners feel the extra expense is worth it.
You'll spend about $100 per year on pool salt and chemicals for a salt water pool, $80 to $100 for monthly cleaning, plus $800 every three to seven years for a new salt cell. You may spend more on repairs too, as the salt can damage pool equipment.
Ultraviolet systems provide the healthiest water available for pools & spas by dramatically reducing chlorine and other chemicals we have traditionally used. Chlorine used to disinfect swimming pools is widely recognized as a health hazard.
Saltwater pools are a lot easier to maintain compared to chlorine pools. Once the ideal water salt level is met, saltwater pools don't need much maintenance. You simply need to keep an eye on the water pH and alkalinity and add salt whenever it's needed, as well as monitor the salt chlorine generator for buildup.
Disadvantages of Saltwater Pools
More complex than traditional pools, they often require experienced technicians even for minor problems. Salt can cause damage to some materials, so you may have to avoid using specific types of heaters, fixtures, underwater lighting, liners, and even some types of masonry work.
Yes, some breeds of mosquitoes like to lay their eggs in saltwater. Female mosquitoes suck blood to get the nutrients they need to build their eggs.
If you own a salt water pool, you probably know how big of a problem algae growth can be. Once these organisms contaminate the pool, they can grow and spread quickly. Both chlorinated and salt water pools need proper water chemistry levels in order to prevent algae growth.
Will My Saltwater Pool Freeze? Yes, they will! Saltwater pools only have a fraction of the salinity of ocean water, so they will freeze in Ottawa's cold winter temperatures. This is why it's important to drain the water to below the skimmer and blow out any lines when closing the pool for the winter.
How often do you shock a saltwater pool? A lot of pool maintenance folks recommend shocking a saltwater pool once a week, especially during the busiest parts of swim season.
If you live in a climate that doesn't get too cold, you can keep your saltwater pool open in the winter and continue to swim all year long.
Cost of Saltwater Chlorinator
Realistically, you can expect to pay $1,700 to $2,500 upfront for your salt chlorine generator. A new generator should already come with a cell and control board, so you won't have to buy these parts separately.