The cost of a salt system is initially higher than other systems in maintenance and replacement of cells. Because salt is corrosive, it can damage some stone and metal. Since the salt level is low, this damage is often caused when pools are not maintained properly.
In order to keep a salt cell effective, it must be maintained regularly. If this is not done, the pool water will become more saline and corrosive. Some salt cells are designed to reduce calcium buildup on the electrode. This reduces, but does not eliminate the need to clean the electrolytic cell