Saltwater Conversion — Upgrade to a Low-Maintenance Salt System

Professional assessment, correct equipment sizing & install: cell + power supply, clean plumbing/electrical tie-in, startup water balance, and an owner walkthrough for easy daily use

Over 100 5-Star Reviews in Suffolk & Nassau
Licensed & Insured
Serving Suffolk & Nassau Counties
Empire Pools
4.3
Based on 167 reviews
Powered By

Salt Water Conversion • Long Island

Salt Water Conversion — Softer Feel, Low-Maintenance Chlorination

Upgrade to a salt chlorine generator (SWG) for consistent, gentler chlorination. We size the cell, install the system cleanly, and dial in settings so your water stays clear with less fuss.

Right-Size the System — capacity & bather load

Match cell/output to pool volume and usage for reliable chlorine production.

Proper sizing

Clean Install — cell, flow switch, power

Plumb cell after filter; mount flow switch; wire to timer/automation per spec.

Code-compliant

Salt Add & Dissolve — target ppm

Calculate bags to reach manufacturer ppm; circulate to fully dissolve before startup.

Correct salinity

Startup & Output — dialed-in

Set % output and run-time for season; confirm flow and no salt/light errors.

Stable chlorine

Chemistry Balance — pH/TA/CYA

Balance with proper stabilizer; discuss pH drift and acid schedule for SWG pools.

Protected water

Maintenance — cell care

Show you how to inspect and, if needed, acid-wash plates to remove scale.

Longer cell life

Automation & Heaters — integration

Coordinate with automation; ensure heater interlocks and safety flow logic.

Seamless control

Photos & Notes — documented

Provide pictures of install, settings, and your new clean PSL (post-start levels).

Clear records
What Is a Saltwater Conversion?

Switch from Tablets to a Salt System for Softer, Self-Chlorinating Water

A saltwater conversion replaces routine tablet/liquid dosing with a salt chlorine generator (SCG). The cell converts dissolved salt into chlorine as water passes through, keeping levels steady with fewer odors and gentler water feel—ideal for families, sensitive skin, and consistent clarity.

How It Works
  • Add pool-grade salt to reach the manufacturer’s target range; the SCG produces sanitizer automatically.
  • Cell installed in return line (after filter/heater as applicable) with a flow switch and proper bonding.
  • Controller integration with your timer/automation or variable-speed pump for output scheduling.
  • Startup balance: verify stabilizer (CYA), pH/alkalinity, and set output percentage for your pool’s demand.
  • Maintenance: occasional cell inspection/cleaning and seasonal adjustments to output.
What You Receive
  • Right-sized recommendation (cell capacity typically 1.5–2× pool volume) and brand options.
  • Professional installation with plumbing cut-in, wiring, bonding, and controller setup.
  • Salt & chemistry checklist for initial dosing, plus “vacation mode” guidance.
  • Warranty registration & care plan including winterization instructions for Long Island climates.
YOUR APPOINTMENT

What to Expect on the Day of Your Saltwater Conversion

A saltwater conversion replaces routine tablet dosing with an on-site salt chlorine generator that makes chlorine automatically. Our process sizes the right cell, installs it cleanly, balances salt/CYA, and programs the controller so your water stays clear and comfortable.

Step-by-Step Timeline

  • Arrival & equipment review — Confirm pool volume, pump speed/flow, heater/automation compatibility, and bonding/power access.
  • Cell & controller install — Mount the controller, plumb the cell on the return line after the filter/heater, and orient the flow switch correctly.
  • Electrical & bonding — Connect power per code, verify bonding/grounding, and tidy conduit/wiring for a clean pad.
  • Salt add & dissolve — Calculate target ppm (typically 2,700–3,500), add pool-grade salt, and circulate to dissolve evenly.
  • Program & calibrate — Set output %, match pump schedule/RPM, confirm flow, and tune with stabilizer (CYA) for steady free chlorine.

What to Have Ready — It Speeds Up the Visit

  • Clear access to the equipment pad and a dedicated outlet/breaker (we’ll verify electrical on site).
  • Your pool volume (length × width × average depth) and any recent chemistry readings.
  • Let us know about automation (Pentair, Hayward, Jandy) or special plumbing/heater considerations.

After the Visit

  • Run the pump continuously for 24–48 hours to fully dissolve salt and stabilize output.
  • We provide your program settings, salt/CYA targets, and cell care tips; expect a quick follow-up to fine-tune output.

Need help deciding?

We’ll Help You Pick The Right Service To Solve Your Issue

Not sure where to start?
From openings and closings to cleanings, repairs, and upgrades — we’ll guide you step-by-step.

Send us a quick photo or description and we’ll point you toward the right service, with clear pricing and options.

Prefer hands-on guidance?
Our team listens to your goals, checks your current setup, and maps the right path forward.

Expect expert advice, straightforward choices, and fast scheduling.

Why Choose Empire Pools Inc. for Your Saltwater Conversion

Expertise
Our technicians are factory-trained in saltwater system installation and programming. We size the system correctly for your pool volume, ensure clean plumbing, and calibrate chlorine output for stable, crystal-clear water.
Reliability
We use only proven, brand-name salt systems with durable cells and warranties you can count on. Our team arrives on time, completes conversions neatly, and ensures your system is running properly before leaving.
Transparency
You’ll receive a clear, line-item estimate of equipment, installation, and optional upgrades. We explain what’s included, any long-term maintenance, and provide manuals and warranty details up front.
Flexibility
We install saltwater systems on both new builds and existing pools, inground or above-ground. Options include automation tie-ins, variable-speed pump compatibility, and spa integration for a tailored setup.

Booking at Empire Pools

From Quote to Follow-Up — Exactly How Your Service Is Managed

Every service starts with a no-pressure quote and a 30-day price lock. We keep you informed by text & email at every milestone, right up to the 24–48 hr check-in after the job.

1
Request Your Quote (No Pressure)

Tell us what you need—weekly, opening, closing, power vac, liner, Loop-Loc, leak, or repair. We quote clearly so you can review details without sales pressure.

Phone or Online 30-Day Price Lock Detailed Scope
2
Approve & Sign

When you approve the quote, our office is notified automatically. You’ll instantly receive a confirmation email + text acknowledging your approval.

E-Signature Instant Acknowledgment Auto-Notify Office
3
We Reach Out to Schedule

A coordinator contacts you promptly to pick the best date/time. We confirm access notes (gate, pets, cover, water level) so service is smooth.

Friendly Scheduling Access Checklist
4
Booking Confirmation

As soon as your appointment is set, you receive both a confirmation email and a confirmation text with your date/time.

Text + Email Calendar-Ready
5
Two-Day Reminder

Exactly 2 days before, we send an email and a text reminder so you can plan around your service window.

T-48 hr Reminder Email + SMS
6
Same-Day Reminder

On the morning of service, you’ll get another email and text reaffirming that you’re on today’s route.

Morning Reminder Status: On Today’s Route
7
30–45 Min ETA from the Van

About 30–45 minutes prior to arrival, the tech driving your GPS-tracked, fully-stocked van will call or text you directly with an ETA.

Live ETA Direct From Service Van Call or Text
8
Completion Notice & 24–48 hr Follow-Up

When the job is finished, you receive a real-time completion text + email (often with photos/notes). After 24–48 hours, we follow up again to make sure you’re thrilled — or we make it right.

Instant Completion Notice Photo/Notes Included 24–48 hr Check-In

Our Guarantee

We Stand Behind Our Work

The Empire Pools Saltwater Conversion Guarantee

After a saltwater conversion (salt chlorine generator install), we expect stable chlorine production and improved water feel under normal operating conditions. If something seems off, contact the office—we’ll re-check the system (cell output, flow, salt/CYA balance) and make service-related adjustments as needed.

  • Happiness First: Not satisfied with your salt system performance? Tell us. We return to verify salinity, controller settings, and flow safety—then correct workmanship-related issues promptly and professionally.
  • Transparent Next Steps: If underlying causes are found (low CYA, cold-water output limits, scaling on the cell, restricted flow, undersized cell), we explain options, pricing, and timelines before any additional work.
  • Photo & Reading Verification: We document salinity, output %, temperature, ORP/FC readings (when applicable), and what was adjusted so you can see exactly what was done and why.

Long Island’s Trusted Pool Pros

Real customers. Real results. Join thousands who swim easier with Empire Pools.

25+ YearsServing Suffolk & Nassau
100+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Google Reviews
6 Service VansGPS-tracked & geo-tagged
48-Hour FixNo green, guaranteed
“Clear in one visit.” We hired Empire after another company struggled. Night and day difference—photos after each visit. — Megan P., Setauket
“On time, every week.” The reminders and ETA texts are awesome. Pool’s never looked better. — Anthony R., Sayville
“Professional & fair.” Tech explained everything, balanced the water perfectly, and followed up the next day. — Diane N., Smithtown
Referral Program

Referral Rewards

Earn $50 every time you refer a friend — they save $50 too.

Love our service? Share it with neighbors and friends. When they book, you’ll both get rewarded — no limits, stack as many credits as you like.

Credits applied after your referral completes their first paid service with Empire Pools.

Card on File Policy

Secure Card on File — Required to Schedule Service

To streamline scheduling and protect against delays, a credit/debit card on file is required for all service visits. Setup is quick and secure—done from your phone or computer—so we can dispatch your technician without payment hassles.

The easiest way: text the word “LINK” to 631-928-0225. You’ll receive a secure payment link to enter your card details in the privacy of your home. Once submitted, you’ll get an instant confirmation text that your information is safely stored and your account is ready for service.

Why We Require It — faster, smoother service

Card-on-file keeps visits on schedule, prevents return trips for payments, and speeds up approvals for add-ons you request.

Zero friction scheduling

How It Works — text “LINK”

Text LINK to our office number. Tap the secure link we send, complete your info, and submit. You’ll receive an immediate success text.

2-minute setup

Security & Compliance — bank-level protection

Cards are tokenized and stored by our PCI-DSS compliant processor. We do not store your full card number on our systems.

Encrypted • Tokenized

When We Charge — only for approved work

Your card is used after services are performed or when you approve estimates/add-ons. Itemized receipts are texted or emailed.

Transparent billing

Holds / Pre-Auths — what to expect

A small verification or pre-authorization may appear temporarily; it’s released per your bank’s policy.

Standard banking practice

Multiple Properties — keep accounts organized

We can associate one card with multiple addresses or keep separate cards per property—your choice.

Flexible account setup

Update or Remove — you're in control

Update or remove your card at any time—text LINK for a new secure form or contact the office.

Easy self-service

Receipts & Records — instant proof

Every charge generates an itemized receipt via text/email for your records and warranty support.

Automatic receipts

Saltwater Conversions — Top 15 FAQs

Everything homeowners ask about how salt systems work, costs, maintenance, winterizing, lifespan, and what to expect during and after a conversion.

What exactly is a saltwater pool conversion?

We install a salt chlorine generator (SCG) in your return line and add pool-grade salt to reach the manufacturer’s level. The cell converts salt (NaCl) into chlorine as water passes through—giving you steady sanitizing with softer-feeling water.

What are the main benefits of going salt?

Smoother, gentler water feel with fewer odors and more consistent chlorine levels.

Convenience: the system makes chlorine for you, reducing tablet/liquid handling and shock frequency.

Is my pool compatible with a salt system?

Nearly all vinyl, fiberglass, and gunite pools are compatible. We verify plumbing space, power, bonding, heater model, and automation so the cell and controller integrate correctly.

Will saltwater corrode my equipment or deck hardware?

Modern systems run at ~2,700–3,500 ppm—about 1/10th ocean salinity. With proper bonding, chemistry, and rinsing of metal fixtures, corrosion risk is minimized.

We check bonding/grounding, heater compatibility, and recommend periodic fresh-water rinses for nearby metal surfaces.

What salt level do I need, and how often do I add salt?

Most cells target 2,700–3,500 ppm. Salt doesn’t “burn off,” so you typically top up only after heavy backwashing, splash-out, rain dilution, or partial drains/refills.

What regular maintenance will I have with a salt system?

Keep water balanced (pH/TA/CYA) and check the cell every 1–3 months for scale; clean only if needed per manufacturer instructions.

Adjust output seasonally and run time with temperature and bather load. Empty skimmer/pump baskets as usual.

How long does a salt cell last?

Typical lifespan is 3–7 years depending on usage, water balance, cleaning frequency, and sizing. Oversizing the cell (≈1.5–2× pool volume) often increases longevity.

How much does a saltwater conversion cost?

Pricing depends on pool volume (cell size), brand, controller options, plumbing/electrical scope, and whether we integrate with automation. We size the system correctly and give a firm quote before work begins.

Can you reuse my existing pump, filter, and heater?

Yes—salt systems work with standard pumps/filters. We install the cell after the filter (and heater when present), verify flow rate, and confirm heater compatibility and bonding.

Will a salt system work with my variable-speed pump?

Absolutely. We program output and pump schedules together and ensure the flow switch and minimum RPM provide reliable cell activation.

Do I still need stabilizer (CYA) and other chemicals?

Yes. Salt systems make chlorine; CYA protects it from UV. You’ll still manage pH/alkalinity/calcium and occasionally shock if demand spikes.

How do you winterize a salt system on Long Island?

We remove/bypass the cell or use a dummy spacer, drain lines per your closing procedure, and store the cell/controller per manufacturer guidelines.

In spring, we reinstall, balance salt/CYA, and recalibrate output so you start cleanly.

My “Check Cell” or “Low Salt” light is on—can you fix that?

Yes—we test salinity with a calibrated meter, inspect/clean the cell, verify flow and temperature, and confirm controller readings. If the cell is at end-of-life, we quote a replacement.

How fast is the conversion process?

Most conversions are completed the same day. After install and salting, we fine-tune output over the next 24–48 hours to match your pool’s demand.

How do I schedule a saltwater conversion with Empire Pools?

Text us pool size (length/width/depth), pump/heater brand, and a photo of your equipment pad—we’ll confirm the right cell size and give you a same-day estimate.

Book Your Saltwater Conversion Today!

Upgrade your pool to a saltwater system and enjoy crystal-clear water, softer feel, and low-maintenance chlorination. Empire Pools installs and programs salt systems the right way—sized for your pool, plumbed neatly, and ready to go.

Hayward
Apsp Certified Service Professional
Img Certification Logo 2019 Phta Cst Sm 72 Dpi 1 1
Chttpng 640W.png
Home Advisor
Images 2
A Logo Of An Elephant For Loop Loc
Home Advisor