How to Convert Your Pool to Saltwater in Lake Oswego, Oregon

If you’re tired of harsh chlorine, itchy skin, and that strong chemical smell, a saltwater pool conversion might be just what your Lake Oswego home needs. At Oswego Water Gardens, we specialize in helping local homeowners make the switch with minimal hassle—and maximum enjoyment.

What Is a Saltwater Pool?

A saltwater pool uses a salt chlorinator to convert salt into chlorine, keeping your pool sanitized without the need to constantly add traditional chlorine. The result? Softer water, lower maintenance, and a more enjoyable swim.

Step-by-Step: Converting Your Pool to Saltwater

1. Balance the Water Chemistry Before doing anything, ensure your pool water is balanced. That includes checking pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Proper water chemistry ensures your salt system works efficiently.

2. Add Pool-Grade Salt Next, you’ll add high-quality pool salt—typically around 3,200 parts per million (ppm). Not sure how much? Use a salt calculator or ask your local Lake Oswego pool pro (that’s us).

3. Install a Salt Chlorinator This device is the heart of the system. It converts salt into chlorine through electrolysis, keeping your water clean and clear with less effort.

4. Test & Adjust Once installed, you’ll want to regularly test the water to keep your levels balanced and your system running smoothly.

5. Enjoy the Benefits After setup, you’ll enjoy all the perks of saltwater swimming—gentler water, fewer harsh chemicals, and lower long-term costs.

How Much Does It Cost?

Most saltwater pool conversions in Lake Oswego cost between $1,500 and $2,000. The price depends on your pool size, existing equipment, and the brand of salt chlorinator you choose. While it’s a moderate upfront cost, many homeowners find that it pays for itself over time through reduced chemical expenses and easier maintenance.

Key Benefits of a Saltwater Pool

• ✅ Gentler on Skin and Eyes

• ✅ Lower Long-Term Chemical Costs

• ✅ No Strong Chlorine Odor

• ✅ Simplified Maintenance

• ✅ Environmentally Friendly

• ✅ Potential Boost in Property Value

Things to Know Before Converting

• No Need to Drain Your Pool You don’t need to empty your pool or swap out your existing pump or filter system.

• Salt Cell Maintenance Salt cells typically last 3–5 years. Budget for replacements down the road.

• Check Your Warranty Some manufacturers may void warranties after a saltwater conversion. Always verify before moving forward.

Ready to Switch to Saltwater? We Can Help.

At Oswego Water Gardens, we’re proud to serve our Lake Oswego neighbors with expert pool maintenance and upgrades—always with a personal, one-on-one approach. We’ll walk you through every step of the saltwater conversion process and make sure your pool is running clean, smooth, and stress-free.

Contact us today for a free consultation or to schedule your saltwater conversion.