How to Maintain a Saltwater Pool

Salt in pool water can make skin feel softer. Plus, salt doesn't stretch out elastic like chlorine can, and it can leave swimmers feeling more refreshed. It's not surprising, then, that nine out of 10 new pools being built are saltwater pools. Here's how to maintain your saltwater pool.

Things You'll Need

• Filter cleaner
• Manual for your specific salt system
• Salt
• Nylon or plastic wall brush
• Clarifier
• Muriatic acid
• Towel

Instructions

Open Your Saltwater Pool for the Season

1. Clean the pool filter from last season, if applicable, by soaking it overnight in a cleaner made especially for pool filters.

2. Fill your pool with new, fresh water. If your pool is brand-new, check with the plasterer as to how many days you need to wait before you can add salt to the pool water. Most suggest 30 days, while some may require up to 60 days.

3. Calculate your pool volume. Reference the owner's manual you received with the salt system as to how much salt per liter or parts per million you will need to add to your pool.

4. Turn off the salt-generated system. Turn on the pool filter.

5. Add salt to the pool per the manufacturer's specifications. Pour the salt into the deep end of the pool. If possible, divert the flow to the main drain.

6. Brush the pool with a nylon or plastic wall brush until the salt is dissolved. Eliminate any leftover bits of debris by adding a clarifier.

7. Wait a full day by allowing the system to run its first 24-hour cycle. Make sure you get an accurate salinity reading according to your owner's manual. (Typically, 32 parts per million will be enough salt to run your generator.)

Perform Weekly Maintenance

1. Empty out the skimmer basket and sweep the pool.

2. Maintain your total alkalinity by testing it at least once a week. Add muriatic acid when needed so that the total alkalinity range is between 80 and 100.

3. Test the pH. Maintain pH levels between 7.2 and 7.8. Adjust levels up or down as necessary.

4. Check the sanitizer level. Sanitizer should read between one to three parts per million. Maintain accordingly.

5. Towel off the water line and any pool debris.

Tips & Warnings

• Always start with the minimum amount of salt recommended. It's easier to add more salt than take it away.

• Saltwater pools attract bees.