How Much Does a Saltwater Pool Conversion Cost? [2025 Data]

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 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.

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.

Labor 

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 

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