01 April 2016

Steps to Convert a Pool to a Salt System

Step One: Picking a Salt Chlorinator
A salt chlorinator converts salt into chlorine that sanitizes your pool. There are many different types of chlorinators available to purchase. When looking at salt chlorinators it is important to pick the right size. It is recommended to pick a chlorinator that works for pools 1/3 bigger than your pool. For example pick a chlorinator that works for a 40,000 gallon system for a 25,000 gallon pool.

To calculate the capacity of your pool use this simple formula: Take the width of your pool multiplied by length, by average depth and then multiplied by 7.5. Or use this site as a guide to calculating: http://www.swimmingpool.com/maintenance/testing-your-water/pool-volume-calculator
For more information on chlorinator systems visit the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals. http://www.apsp.org/ Contact your local pool specialist to install your new chlorinator.

Step Two: What kind of Salt to use?
Look at what system you purchased and determine if there are specific requirements for the chlorinator you chose. You can buy pool salt in bulk from local home stores or the hardware store. Look for pool salt that is a high percentage Pure Salt. When starting up a new pool system you will initially need around 7-10 40lb bags. Once your pool is up and running you will need, on average,  3-4 bags per year (check with local pool store for specific recommendations on amounts). Make sure when adding salt initially to turn the chlorinator off. Once you have scattered the salt in the pool, wait 24 hours before turning the chlorinator on.

Step Three: Removing Phosphates
Every pool has some trace of phosphates but you want to try to eliminate as many as possible from your pool environment. Phosphates are the main source of energy for algae, and can lead to build up in your salt chlorinator. Go to your local pool store and get Phosphate test kits to test your water levels. The pool store will recommend a product to use to counteract phosphate build up based on your water testing.

Step Four: Maintenance
There will be some monthly maintenance involved with a salt pool system. It is best to visit your local pool store and they will recommend the best monthly kit to maintain your pool’s correct PH. There are start-up kits that will help reduce build up on the salt chlorinator and help keep water levels balanced. You will need to test your water regularly still to make sure your system is functioning properly but over time the amount of maintenance on a salt pool is less burdensome than a chlorine only system.

Step Five: Enjoy!

Step Six: Read about Diamond Crystal^® Splash Ready^® Pool Salt

http://www.apsp.org/