As the market size for swimming pools continues to grow in the US, more and more pool owners are thinking about converting their above ground pool to salt. This can be a great option for people who react to harsh chemicals. But before buying a saltwater system, it’s important to understand the facts. Let’s take a look at how these swimming pools work and their benefits.

What is a Saltwater Above Ground Pool?

Many people believe that swimming in a saltwater above ground pool is like taking a dip in the ocean—but that’s not quite the case. While it’s true that salt pools use a natural form of chlorine made from salt to sanitize a pool, the two experiences are drastically different. For example, ocean water contains 50,000 part per million (PPM) of salt, while a salt pool contains about 3,000 PPM.

The natural chlorine contained in salt water pools comes from a process called electrolysis. That happens when the pool water passes through the salt cell, which causes the salt and water to split into hydrogen and hypochlorous acid—and that converts into chlorine. And then once the naturally occurring chlorine breaks down, it converts to salt again.

Did You Know?

If you want to convert your above ground pool to salt, you don’t need to drain it. The residual chlorine in your pool will not affect the new salt cell.

The Benefits of a Saltwater Above Ground Pool

There’s a reason that so many people are converting their above ground pools to salt. Here are just a few:

Less Work

Although you still have to take steps to maintain your saltwater pool, you can go longer between checks. For instance, in a chlorine pool, you will need to check the chlorine and PH levels weekly. But you can check the levels in a saltwater pool every two weeks. And if the levels are off? Simply turn the dial on the salt system and adjust them!

And you won’t have to shock a saltwater pool as often, either. In fact, the only time it’s necessary is when a hard rain occurs and the pool begins to turn green from algae.

Less Expensive to Maintain

You won’t have to spend as much money to maintain an above ground saltwater pool, either. That’s because the typical life span of a salt cell is three to seven years. And when you use a saltwater system instead of chemicals, you will no longer have to buy chlorine tablets, liquid chlorine, or as many shock treatments.

Gentle on Your Skin, Eyes, and Hair

Finally, when you install an above ground saltwater pool, you can say goodbye to the irritations some people experience when swimming in traditionally chlorinated pools. Salt pools won’t irritate your skin, eyes, and hair in most instances. The water in saltwater pools is silky-smooth and makes your skin feel soft.

Did You Know?

Saltwater pools don’t have that harsh chlorine smell that traditional pools do!

Disadvantages of a Saltwater Above Ground Pool

Saltwater pools also come with a few disadvantages. Here are a few you should know about:

Potential for Corrosion

Salt is corrosive, and if you don’t properly maintain your saltwater pool, it could cause harm to your pool and its equipment. For instance, the shaft seal on your pool pump may fail faster on a saltwater pool. And even if you take care to maintain the proper levels, a tiny hole in pool liners can allow the water to make contact with pools and cause premature rusting.

Did You Know?

The salt level in most saltwater pools is equivalent to that of a human tear.

Increased Build Up

The PH levels can rise in a saltwater pool, which can lead to calcium scaling in your pool or on the salt cell. If you plan to install a saltwater pool or convert your above ground pool to salt, be sure the check the levels frequently to avoid this type of buildup.

Higher Upfront Cost

Although the maintenance costs on saltwater pools are less, it can cost more to install one. If you’re not converting an existing pool into saltwater, you should more upfront for a newly installed saltwater pool.

Is an Above Ground Saltwater Pool Right for You?

Whether you want to install a new above ground saltwater pool or convert your existing pool to salt, it’s good to know the facts. Think about the advantages and disadvantages we listed above and then contact your local pool professional to discuss your options. Before long, you could be swimming in your new saltwater pool!