Salt Chlorine Generator (cell & control)
Converts salt to chlorine automatically; softer water feel; reduced chemical handling; salt cell replacement every 3-7 years ($500-1200); requires pool pre-treatment for saltwater
Installed price$1,000–$2,500LA-area, parts and labor
Typical lifespan~8 yrswith regular care
Cost per year of life$125–$313price ÷ lifespan
Who usually installs it20% DIY · 80% pro
Most installs involve plumbing or electrical work. When wiring or gas lines are involved, call a licensed pro.
Common brandsPentair IntelliChlorHayward AquaRiteZodiac Nature2Jandy AquaPure
Repair or replace?
A common rule: if a repair costs more than half the price of new, or the unit is in its last year or two of a ~8-year life, replacing is often the better value. Try the repair-or-replace calculator with your own quote. Ranges are LA-area estimates; see How We Estimate.
Models and variants
- Hayward AquaRite Pro SWGHayward · about $1800 · 3-yr warranty
- Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 SWGPentair · about $1950 · 3-yr warranty
- Zodiac Nature2 Express SWGZodiac · about $1400 · 2-yr warranty
Related repairs
Maintenance that protects it
Costs and calculators
- Pool ownership costs by pool type
- Chlorine Tablets (3-inch, continuous feeding): $150–$400
- Salt (annual top-up): $100–$300
- Salt Cell Replacement: $400–$1,200
- Annual Maintenance Cost Calculator
- Pool Running Cost Calculator
- Equipment Lifespan Calculator