When you have a pool or are looking into getting a pool, you are going to want to know everything about having one. The main question here is whether an above ground pool can be saltwater?
Above ground pools can be saltwater pools and chlorine pools can be converted to salt water pools. Salt water pools can lower upkeep costs but initial setup and repairs or maintenance are going to cost more than chlorine.
So how can above ground pools be saltwater and how do you convert an above ground pool from chlorine to saltwater? Reading this article can provide you with some answers plus give you an idea on how long saltwater pools can last.

Can Above Ground Pools Be Salt Water?
Since above ground pools are generally Chlorine, there may be some questions regarding a saltwater pool instead.
Can above ground pools be saltwater?
In short, the answer is yes. While most pools come with a generator or filter already, you may have to purchase a different one that can handle salt in place of chlorine. These are usually called saltwater generators or cells.
Is It Possible To Use Salt instead of Chlorine?
Since you can use salt Instead of chlorine in an above ground pool, there may be some changes or expectations you need to have.
There are some key differences that contribute to the decision to convert a chlorine pool to saltwater.
Chlorine Pools Are More Common
More people have either been in or heard of an above ground pool that uses chlorine. Have you ever wondered why?
Chlorine pools are more common because they are easier to maintain and fix if something goes wrong.
But why would someone opt to use saltwater instead? There are several reasons someone would choose to have saltwater in their pool.
- Too much chlorine can be dangerous and should be monitored and checked regularly.
- Some people can have or develop reactions to chlorine.
- Chlorine is a harsher chemical than salt.
Saltwater Pools Still Need to Be Kept Up.
Even though you have a saltwater pool, you will still need to make sure that it has the correct levels needed to ensure it is safe.
Saltwater pools still need to have the correct levels of pH, alkalinity, and calcium. Not only do these chemicals need to be monitored, but you will need to make sure that the levels of salt are correct.
If your saltwater pool does not have enough salt, then the chlorine generator that turns salt into chlorine will not be sufficient enough to clean the pool’s water.
Here’s a helpful video about converting to a saltwater pool, with more info below:
Here’s a link to some Pool Accessories from Amazon and the highly recommended Sand Filter Pump to upgrade any above ground pool setup.
How Do I Make My Above Ground Pool Saltwater?
You may be wondering how to convert your above ground pool from chlorine to saltwater. While you may already have the items needed, it can be a process that often requires steps to be followed.
To convert your chlorine pool to a saltwater pool:
- You will need to drain your existing pool water completely. If this is a new pool that has not been filled up, you can skip this step.
- Make sure that the pool is clean, and then fill the pool up with clean unchlorinated or unaltered water.
- The next step is to set up your Saltwater filtration system and control box. This requires its own steps that can be found within this article.
After these steps are done you are all set to start adding the salt and ensuring that all the chemicals are at the correct levels.
How To Set Up the Saltwater System
For converting an above ground pool into a saltwater pool, there are some things that you should take into consideration. One of these is to ensure that the saltwater system you are choosing is compatible with the type of above ground pool you have.
This means that the system should not only be strong enough but also compatible with the pool itself. You also want to choose a system that can last the longest for the size of pool that you have.
So, how do you set up a saltwater system?
To install an above ground pool saltwater system, you will need to:
- First make sure that the water balance is as the pool instructions give and the pool is filled to the correct water level.
- Add the amount of salt that is required for the size of the pool. The salt concentration needs to be the right amount.
- After adding the salt wait at least a day to ensure that the salt is dissolved and mixed throughout the entirety of the pool water.
- Since the chlorinator, or control box, needs to be connected to a power source, make sure that it is either hard wired into a power source or close enough to a power outlet and then mount the control box on a wall and next to the pool equipment.
- Install the chlorinator cell into the existing plumbing and after the filter.
- Turn on the pump to check for leaks and make sure that the system is running for a few hours to circulate the pool water and disperse all the dissolved salt throughout the pool.
- Turn on the salt chlorinator, allowing it to run for a few more hours and your pool is ready.
Now that your saltwater system is installed and running, you are able to enjoy your above ground saltwater pool.
How Long Do Above Ground Saltwater Pools Last?
Above ground pools generally will last for quite a few years if maintained and kept up. There are some things to keep in mind when it comes to the duration of your above ground saltwater pool.
Depending on the location and the type of pool you have, the longevity of your pool can vary. In most cases, an above ground pool typically can last between seven and fifteen years.
With saltwater pools, it is important to maintain the pool and ensure that any leaks are fixed and that the saltwater system is working properly. If leaks are not fixed, corrosion can happen.
Is Above Ground Saltwater Pool Worth It?
Now you may be wondering if these above ground saltwater pools are worth it. Since saltwater pools are cheaper to maintain, they can be a great cheaper option than a chlorinated pool.
However, because a saltwater pool must use a saltwater generator, they can cost more to repair. This just means that with proper monitoring, the saltwater system can last longer and keep the pool’s water balance great.
Here’s a link to some Pool Accessories from Amazon and the highly recommended Sand Filter Pump to upgrade any above ground pool setup.
Concluding Thoughts
When it comes to having a pool, deciding on installing a saltwater system on your above ground pool can leave you with so many questions.
The good news is that having a saltwater system installed on your above ground pool can not only be great but can also help aid in not only the cost but to help prevent irritations to you and your family’s skin.
Saltwater above ground pools can last just as long as any above ground pool with proper maintenance and upkeep.