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Yes, you can use chlorine tablets in a salt water pool. It is not the standard recommended practice, but if your pool needs more chlorine, adding tablets can help temporarily fix the problem. Only add as many tablets as needed to keep your chlorine level around three parts per million. After adding the tablets, test your water to determine the chlorine content.

Generally, you do not need to drain your pool to convert it to a saltwater system. The main exception is if you have used an antibacterial agent containing polyhexamethylene biguanide to sanitize your pool, as these sanitation products do not mix well with saltwater systems. If this is the case, you will need to start fresh. You can either drain the pool or treat the existing water with a high dose of chlorine to remove the antibacterial agent. If you choose the chlorine treatment, wait several days to allow the chlorine to work before proceeding with the conversion. If you are unsure whether this applies to your pool, consult a pool technician.

The life expectancy of a gunite pool is about 100 years or more with proper care. Clean your pool at least once a week and plan to resurface it every five to seven years. For winter, close down the gunite pool but don’t drain it. And you can increase your gunite pool’s longevity by repairing any damage and addressing any issues as soon as you notice them.

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.