Why You Should Convert Above or Below-Ground Pools to a Saltwater Pool

If you've been maintaining a traditional chlorine pool, you've likely experienced the ongoing cycle of purchasing, storing, and adding chemicals to keep your water clean and balanced. But there's a better way. Converting your above-ground or in-ground pool to a saltwater system offers a more natural, cost-effective, and enjoyable swimming experience. 

At Allstar Pool Parts, we make the process easier by offering a wide range of premium equipment, including salt water pool chlorinators, replacement salt cells, and other spare parts. Our mission is simple: provide reliable, high-quality products at the best prices so your pool stays clean, healthy, and performing at its best all year round.

What is a Salt Pool?

A salt pool isn't quite what most people imagine when they first hear the term. Despite the name, saltwater pools don't feel or taste like ocean water. Instead, they use a salt chlorine generation system that converts dissolved salt into chlorine through a process called electrolysis.

You add pool-grade salt to your water (at much lower concentrations than seawater), and a salt chlorine generator containing a salt chlorinator cell passes the salt water through an electrically charged cell. This process breaks down the salt molecules, producing natural chlorine that sanitises your pool. Once the chlorine does its job of killing bacteria and algae, it reverts back to salt, creating a continuous, self-sustaining cycle.

The result? Softer, gentler water that's easier on your skin, eyes, and swimwear, with far less manual chemical handling required.

Can You Convert a Chlorine Pool to Saltwater?

Whether you have an above-ground pool or an in-ground pool, concrete, fibreglass, or vinyl liner construction, conversion is not only possible but relatively straightforward.

The good news is that you don't need to drain your pool, replace your existing equipment, or undertake major construction. Most standard pool pumps, filters, and plumbing systems are fully compatible with saltwater systems. The conversion primarily involves adding a swimming pool salt chlorinator to your existing setup and making a few adjustments to ensure everything works harmoniously.

Why Convert My Pool from Chlorine to Saltwater?

The decision to convert from a traditional chlorine pool to a saltwater system comes with numerous advantages that impact your health, wallet, and overall pool enjoyment.

Gentler on Skin and Eyes

Traditional chlorine pools often cause red, irritated eyes, dry, itchy skin, and that distinctive chemical smell that clings to your body after swimming. Saltwater pools produce chlorine at consistent, lower levels, eliminating the harsh effects of concentrated chlorine. Swimmers frequently report that saltwater feels silkier and more natural, creating a spa-like experience right in your backyard.

Lower Ongoing Chemical Costs

You'll no longer need to regularly purchase expensive chlorine tablets, liquid chlorine, or shock treatments. A single bag of pool salt costs significantly less than chlorine products and needs to be replenished far less frequently, typically only when water is lost through splashing, backwashing, or draining.

Reduced Maintenance Time

Traditional chlorine pools require constant attention: testing chemical levels, adding chlorine, balancing pH, and shocking the water regularly. Saltwater systems automate most of this process. Your pool chlorinator cell generates chlorine continuously, maintaining consistent sanitisation levels with minimal intervention. You'll still need to test and balance your water periodically, but the frequency and intensity of maintenance drops dramatically.

More Environmentally Friendly

Saltwater pools reduce your environmental footprint in several ways. You're not constantly transporting, storing, and disposing of hazardous chemicals. The chlorine production happens on-site, eliminating the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing and shipping chlorine products. Additionally, the stable chemical levels mean fewer dramatic swings that require corrective treatments.

Elimination of Chlorine Storage

Storing chlorine is not only inconvenient but potentially dangerous, especially in homes with children or pets. Chlorine products are corrosive, can release harmful fumes, and pose explosion risks if improperly stored. Converting to saltwater eliminates these hazards entirely, giving you peace of mind and freeing up storage space.

Prepping for the Conversion

Before you dive into converting your pool, proper preparation ensures a smooth transition and optimal performance from your new saltwater system.

• Check your pool equipment. Most pumps, filters, and plumbing systems are compatible with saltwater systems, but older metal components may need replacing.
  
  
• Test existing water chemistry. You’ll need balanced pH, alkalinity, and stabilizer levels before adding salt.
  
  
• Determine the right salt level. Many systems require around 3,000 ppm of salt, but always consult your specific chlorinator’s guide.
  
  
• Choose the correct system size. Ensure your chlorinator is rated for your pool’s volume or slightly higher for optimum performance.

Convert to a Saltwater Pool in 3 Steps

Choose the Right Salt Chlorinator

Selecting the appropriate chlorinator is the most critical decision in your conversion. The right unit depends on several factors, and getting this choice correct ensures years of trouble-free operation.

• Size Matters: Salt chlorinators are rated by the pool volume they can effectively service. As a general rule, choose a unit rated for slightly larger than your actual pool volume. This provides a buffer for hot weather, heavy pool usage, and ensures your system isn't constantly running at maximum capacity, which extends its lifespan. For a 50,000-litre pool, for example, consider a chlorinator rated for 60,000-70,000 litres.
• Consider Your Climate and Usage: If you live in a region with intense summer heat or have a pool that gets heavy use, you'll need a more robust system with higher chlorine output capabilities. Above-ground pools in full sun may require more chlorine production than shaded in-ground pools. Be honest about your specific conditions when selecting equipment.
• Quality and Warranty: At Allstar Pool Parts, we emphasise quality because salt chlorinators are a long-term investment. Look for reputable manufacturers that offer comprehensive warranties.
• Self-Cleaning Features: Modern salt chlorinators often include reverse-polarity or self-cleaning functions that automatically clean calcium deposits from the cell plates. This feature significantly reduces maintenance requirements and extends cell life, making it well worth seeking out.

Install the Chlorine Generator

Once you’ve selected your system, installation usually involves:

• Adding the chlorine generator control box near your pump system
• Installing the salt chlorinator cell in-line with your plumbing
• Ensuring proper electrical connection
• Adding the required amount of pool-grade salt directly into the water
  
  

Many homeowners choose to install their system themselves, especially because modern equipment is designed to be DIY-friendly. Still, professional installation is always an option if you prefer expert precision.

Set the Salt Chlorine Generator's Output Level

With everything installed, it's time to add salt and configure your system for optimal performance.

Adding Pool Salt: You'll need approximately 4,000-6,000 ppm (parts per million) of salt in your pool, depending on your specific chlorinator's requirements. Always check your chlorinator's specifications for exact requirements.

Initial Settings: Once your salt is dissolved and the system is powered up, start with conservative settings. Most chlorinators display your current salt level and allow you to adjust chlorine output as a percentage of maximum capacity. 

Fine-Tuning: Test your free chlorine levels daily for the first week. You're aiming for 1-3 ppm, with 2 ppm being ideal for most pools. If chlorine levels are too low, increase your output percentage gradually. If they're too high, decrease the output or reduce the number of hours your system runs daily. 

Life After Converting Your Chlorine Pool to Saltwater

Once your pool is converted, you’ll notice several changes in everyday pool care:

• Less frequent manual chlorination
• More stable chemical levels
• A smoother, more pleasant feel to the water
• Reduced eye and skin irritation for swimmers
• Lower overall maintenance time

You’ll still need to monitor chemical balance, clean filters, and inspect your equipment, but the overall workload becomes easier and more predictable.

In addition, maintaining your salt system is straightforward. Regularly check the cell for buildup, monitor your salt levels, and follow the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning schedule to keep your system performing at its best.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Converting your pool to a saltwater system represents a significant upgrade to your swimming experience, offering softer water, reduced maintenance, lower ongoing costs, and a more environmentally friendly approach to pool sanitation. Whether you have an above-ground pool in your suburban backyard or a luxurious in-ground installation, the benefits of saltwater conversion are undeniable.

At Allstar Pool Parts, we're passionate about helping pool owners achieve the perfect swimming environment. We stock an extensive range of high-quality salt water pool chlorinators, replacement salt cells, and all the spare parts you need to convert and maintain your saltwater system. Our knowledgeable team is always ready to answer your questions, help you select the right equipment for your specific pool, and provide expert guidance throughout the conversion process and beyond.

Ready to transform your pool? Visit allstarpoolparts.com.au to explore our range of saltwater solutions, or contact our team for personalised advice on making the switch. Your softer, cleaner, more enjoyable swimming experience is just one conversion away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you convert a chlorine pool to saltwater?

Yes, both above-ground and in-ground pools can be converted with the installation of a salt chlorine generator and the appropriate salt levels.

Does my water become salty when I convert my pool to saltwater?

Not noticeably. The salt concentration is very mild—far lower than seawater. Most swimmers can barely taste it.

Is converting my pool to salt water energy efficient?

Modern salt systems are designed to operate efficiently and work in harmony with your existing pool pump. Many models also include energy-saving modes or variable output controls.

If I convert my chlorine pool to saltwater, is my pool and pool equipment typically compatible?

Most equipment is already fully compatible. Some older metal components or unlined steel structures may require upgrades, but the majority of pumps, filters, and plumbing systems work seamlessly with saltwater systems.