How to Maintain a Saltwater Swimming Pool
You have made the switch from a standard chemical pool to a saltwater swimming pool. While you no longer have the need for the expensive chemicals, you still need to do some routine maintenance. The job has been made much easier for you than with a standard pool, but unfortunately, there is still work to be done. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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How to Maintain a Saltwater Swimming Pool
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1
Keep the skimmer basket clean. The larger debris that somehow finds its way into your saltwater pool must be removed in a timely manner. If leaves, dirt or other debris clog your skimmer basket, your pump and filter system will not be working at their peak performance.
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2
Do not backwash excessively. While it is critical to your filter system to be backwashed, only perform this task when your pressure gauge reads between 8 and 10 psi. Backwashing more often does not help your filtration system, and wastes water.
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3
Change the sand in your filter. New sand has very rough edges which allows it to trap the dirt. Over time, these edges are worn smooth and the sand loses its ability to collect dirt. Change the sand in your filter every three to five years.
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4
Clean the saltwater system. The chlorine generator has cells that must remain clean if they are to produce the needed levels of chlorine. Check and clean these weekly.
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5
Keep the pump running. To conserve electricity, run your pool pump as infrequently as possible. However, to keep your pool filtration system and chlorine generator working at peak performance, run the pump approximately one hour per 10 degrees of temperature. Example: On a day the temperature hits 95, run your pump for 9 1/2 hours.
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Tips & Warnings
Most filtration systems have a second basket between the skimmer basket and the pump. Check this basket for any debris that made it through the skimmer.
Maintain the pH at approximately 7.0 for best results; higher or lower will adversely affect your pool's chemistry levels.
