Salt Water Pool Instructions

Chlorine pools can be converted to salt water pools with a few alterations.

Salt water pools have many benefits that chlorine pools do not have. Salt water does not stretch the pool liner like chlorine does, and it makes your skin softer. Maintaining and caring for a salt water pool helps to extend the life of the pool and pump while creating the best salt water pool experience.

Things You'll Need

• Filter cleaner
• Pool salt
• Nylon pool brush
• Clarifier solution
• Salt water-approved steps
• Muriatic acid

Instructions

1. Remove any debris from the filter and add filter cleaner to the pool at the beginning of each pool season.

2. Drain the pool and fill it with fresh water. Wait the appropriate amount of time before adding water to a new pool. Underground pools that use plaster normally need to set 30 to 60 days before salt water is added. The pool installer will be able to tell you the appropriate time frame.

3. Pour the correct amounts of pool salt into the pool as close as possible to the main drain. The amount of water in the pool will determine the amount of salt you should use. Turn on the pool filter. Use the pool brush to get all the salt to dissolve.

4. Turn on the salt generator and allow it to run a full 24 hours before swimming.

5. Pour the clarifier solution into the pool. The solution bottle will instruct you on how much to use for the number of gallons the pool holds.

6. Install salt water-approved steps. Most steps made for chlorine pools will corrode and rust in salt water. Salt water-approved steps and ladders will stand up season after season.

7. Maintain the pool on a weekly basis. Check and clean the skimmer every three to five days, and sweep the pool once a week. Check the balance of the pool and add muriatic acid or salt as needed. The pH level of the pool should be between 7.2 and 7.8. The alkalinity range should be between 80 and 100. Most companies suggest a salt level of 2,500 to 3,000 parts per million. The water line needs to be cleaned with a towel daily to remove salt build up and debris.

Tips & Warnings

• Filter cleaners normally take 12 to 24 hours to filter through the pool and clean the filter.

• Salt can sink to the bottom of the pool and leave a stain if not swept or stirred regularly.

References

• Watermaid: Salt Water Pool Maintenance -- What to Do
• PoolPlaza: Salt Water Pool System FAQs