How Much Does a Saltwater Pool Conversion Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $750 - $1,750
Saltwater pool conversion costs $750 to $1,750 on average, with most paying around $1,000, depending on pool type and size.
The cost to convert a pool to saltwater is $1,000 on average, but it ranges anywhere from $500 to $2,500. Factors that can influence this cost include the size and type of pool you already have and if the pool requires any additional work. If you already have an in-ground or aboveground pool, the cost to convert a pool to salt water is not too steep—at least, not when compared to putting in a new pool from scratch. Learn how much a saltwater pool conversion costs in this guide.
- Average
- $1,000
- Low end
- $500
- high end
- $2,500
Saltwater Pool Conversion Cost Breakdown
Here are different costs to keep in mind when budgeting for a saltwater pool conversion.
Pool Size
The biggest cost when converting a pool is the salt chlorine generator. The larger the pool, the more powerful a generator is needed. Rather than choosing a generator for the pool size you have, you should get one that can handle at least two times your pool size for high-demand use, or 1.5 times your pool size for moderate use. So, for a 10,000-gallon pool, you will need a generator rated for something between 15,000 gallons and 20,000 gallons.
Secondly, consider salt costs. You will need around 200 pounds of pool-grade salt for every 10,000 gallons of water. You can usually find 40-pound bags for $20 to $55 each.
| Pool Size (gallons) | Generator Capacity | Conversion Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 10,000 | 15,000–20,000 | $700–$1,230 |
| 20,000 | 30,000–40,000 | $1,180–$2,400 |
| 30,000 | 45,000–60,000 | $1,430–$2,950 |
Pool Type
Converting an aboveground pool costs less than converting an in-ground pool. This is because the most expensive part of your saltwater conversion—the chlorine generator—is less costly for aboveground pools.
| Pool Type | Conversion Cost |
|---|---|
| Aboveground | $500–$1,500 |
| In-Ground | $1,000–$2,500 |
Aboveground Pools
Aboveground pools tend to require substantially less water than their in-ground counterparts. A smaller aboveground pool, which might measure 15 feet around and 5.5 feet deep, needs slightly less than 6,000 gallons of water to fill it.
Because saltwater pool systems are based on the amount of water, you can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on your kit if the pool is aboveground. A good price range for DIY installation of the product is $500 to $1,500.
In-Ground Pools
In-ground pools are generally deeper and require more water. Ten thousand to 15,000 gallons is the average for a pool that measures 10 feet by 20 feet, while a bigger pool (20 feet by 40 feet) could need twice that much or more. A higher-powered device, and additional features to maintain salt levels, may be warranted. Expect to pay $1,000 to $2,500 to convert a larger in-ground pool.
Equipment and Materials
For most pools, the only things you will need for the conversion are a new salt chlorine generator and salt. This is because most saltwater systems work with an existing pool pump. In the off-chance that you need a new pool pump, you will need to factor that cost into your budget. And if you are overdue for a new filter, this is a great time to get that done.
| Materials | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Salt Chlorine Generator | $500–$2,000 |
| Salt | $100–$750 |
| Pool Pump | $400–$3,100 |
| Pool Filter | $250–$2,000 |
Labor
"When converting to a saltwater pool, the key consideration is installing a salt chlorine generator. You can keep your existing filtration and heating systems. You'll need to budget for professional installation, which varies with the size and condition of your pool."
— Rafi Friedman, President of Coastal Luxury Outdoors, Jacksonville, FL
Installation labor costs will range between $100 to $200. A pool technician will properly install your salt chlorine generator and make sure it is running as it should. They will also add salt to the water and make sure it is at the right level so you and your family can safely enjoy the converted pool.
Ongoing Expenses of a Saltwater Pool
Here are all of the ongoing expenses you should budget for when converting your pool to salt water.
Electricity per Month
You can expect monthly pool electricity costs to increase by $35 to $50 after you make the conversion to salt water. You will want to run the salt chlorine generator for four to six hours in the winter and 10 to 12 hours in the summer.
Salt
Salt expenses will range between $100 to $400 annually. You should hire a pool maintenance company or check salinity levels weekly. This will ensure water is properly balanced and safe for swimming.
Maintenance
You will enjoy lower pool maintenance costs after you make the conversion. Expect to pay $960 to $1,800 for an annual maintenance pool package, which includes cleaning, water testing, and equipment maintenance.
Repairs
Pool repair costs average $680. Common repairs to saltwater pools include replacing your generator cell, which ranges between $700 and $1,100. And in case you need a new control board for your generator, expect to pay $500 to $900.Pros and Cons of a Saltwater Pool
If you are still not sure if a saltwater pool is right for you, here are the most important pros and cons to consider.
Pros and Cons of a Saltwater Pool
If you are still not sure if a saltwater pool is right for you, here are the most important pros and cons to consider.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easier on the eyes and skin | More costly to install |
| Less maintenance | Harder to DIY |
| Water feels softer | Salt can corrode metal parts |
| Lower maintenance costs | Increase in electricity bills |
Pros
If the smell of chlorine or the idea of swimming in chlorinated water is bothersome to you, then the lack of chemicals is likely going to be the biggest pro. Even if you are not sensitive to chemicals, saltwater pools tend to be easier on your eyes and skin, which is ideal if you have children. The water also feels softer, so many people find it nicer for swimming. Additionally, you will enjoy an easier maintenance schedule at a lower cost.
Cons
Although there is plenty to like about a saltwater pool, you should know that it is more expensive to install than a conventional system. The salt can corrode metal parts, although you can lessen this issue with a sacrificial anode. Also, keep in mind that it is harder to DIY saltwater pool installation and repair. And nobody enjoys a higher electricity bill, but that is what you can expect after a saltwater conversion.
Cost to Convert a Saltwater Pool Yourself
If you are looking to minimize the cost to convert a chlorine pool to salt, you might do it yourself. A common misconception about saltwater pools is that you have to remove all the chlorine before adding salt, which makes many homeowners disinclined to tackle the DIY project.
In fact, saltwater pools still contain chlorinated water. The salt cell works to free chlorine from the salt and then pumps it back into the pool. Converting can take as little as 24 hours, and the process begins simply by putting pool-grade salt in the water and hooking up the generator.
Homeowners can save at least $100 on labor by tackling this part on their own.
How Much Salt Do I Need to Convert My Chlorine Pool?
You need 200 pounds of salt for every 10,000 gallons of water. Since the salt usually comes in 40-pound bags, you can estimate the number of bags you need by doing some quick math.
First, take the number of gallons of water your pool uses and divide it by 10,000. Then, multiply that number by 200 to see how many bags of salt are needed. For example, a 10,000-gallon pool requires five 40-pound bags of salt.
Common Costs of Saltwater Pool Add-Ons
While you are working on getting your pool converted to salt water, here are some add-ons that you might want to consider.
Saltwater hot tub: $6,500–$18,000
Pool deck: $3,000–$12,000
Pool fence: $1,500–$10,000
Pool enclosure: $6,010–$17,300
Pool cover: $770–$2,600
Waterfall or other water features: $1,500–$5,000
Frequently Asked Questions
The generator in your saltwater pool conversion kit transforms sodium chloride—the same salt as table salt—into chlorine. A process called electrolysis sends electricity through the water to interact with the chlorine ion. This ultimately creates the chlorine that keeps your pool safe and clean. The cell in your saltwater chlorine generator is the part that converts the salt into chlorine.
Pool remodel costs average over $9,000, so what about converting your pool to salt water instead? It is certainly an investment on the front end, but homeowners stand to save money on maintenance by switching to a saltwater pool. You will need to replace the salt cell every five years or so, but you will not have to clean your pool as frequently, either. The smell of chlorine also will not be on your swimsuits or skin, which is a benefit many appreciate.
You do not have to drain your pool before converting it to salt water. The times when you should consider doing so are when you have been using an antibacterial agent. These sanitation products do not mix well with the saltwater system, so you will need to start fresh. You can either drain the pool or get rid of the antibacterial agent with chlorine. Check with a pool technician if you are unsure if this applies to you.