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How Do I Convert My Chlorine Pool To Saltwater

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How Do I Switch From Baquacil To A Salt System

Converting Your Pool To Salt Water

Shock the Pool! Balance your pools water, and then use either liquid chlorine or non-chlorine shock. This will break apart the molecular bonds of the biguanides. Once you add the shock, check your pool water daily and add more chlorine to the pool if your test kit shows the level above zero. Keep adding chlorine until you are no longer getting a reading of baquacil in your water. During this time you will notice that your pool water may change different colors and you will have a residual of waste at the bottom of your pool. This is normal. Vacuum up the waste directly to waste, if you have a cartridge filter you will need to clean your cartridges after each cleaning.

This process may take a day or could take a week. The duration is determined by how much baquacil is in your pool and how much chlorine you are adding. Start with 2 gallons of bleach per 10,000 gallons, or if using non-chlorine shock, use 8 lbs per 10,000 gals. Run the filter 24/7 until the water clears, backwashing if needed.

Repeat the treatment if your pool water does not clear within a week. Usual time required is 3-5 days, but it can take longer or require additional chlorine if biguanide levels are high or if the pool water was in poor condition before treatment.

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Cost To Convert A Pool To Salt Water

The cost to convert a pool to salt water will vary depending on the size of your pool and whether you hire a professional to complete the installation. There are salt water systems designed for every size of pool ranging from 5,000-100,000 gallons so you can be sure to find one that works for your specific pool.

We recommend purchasing a salt water system that is rated for pools approximately 15% larger than specified to ensure that you have adequate chlorine production during higher pool usage, increased sunlight hours and during superchlorination that reduces the need for shocking.

The price for a basic is about $300 and can be installed in as little as 30 minutes by a handy pool owner. The advanced units can cost upwards of $1,500 and include features like self diagnostics, automatic chemical feeders and a control panel that will automate all of your pool hardware. The automated pool systems are a bit more complex to install but for most pool owners the upfront cost is worth the very low maintenance down the road.

If you install the system yourself you won’t need to hire a pool service company but we recommend a professional for complicated systems to ensure it is installed correctly. A pool technician will charge approximately $250-$500 to install a salt water system but this of course will vary with geographic location and the complexity of the system.

Disclaimer

You May Need A New Pool Guy

Most pool companies exclusively service chlorine pools. Salt water pools are an entirely different process that require specialized knowledge for maintenance. If youre going to convert your pool to a salt water pool and you use a company for pool maintenance, it helps to choose a conversion company that also offers maintenance services. Pioneer Pools has you covered.

The Salt Water Pool Conversion Process

Converting a chlorine pool to a salt water pool requires three very important things a salt chlorinator system, something called a sacrificial anode, and pool salt. The salt chlorinator system is the system that will replace your traditional chlorine system. Its prepared with the pool salt to produce salt chlorine as necessary.

The sacrificial anode is a device that will help to mitigate corrosion. Since salt is a corrosive substance, operating a salt water pool without a sacrificial anode will lead to rust buildup The anode acts as a little snack for the salt in your pool. It will begin to corrode the anode first, which is easy and inexpensive to replace. These anodes can last several years and preserve the integrity of your pool.

Read Also: Cost To Change Pool From Chlorine To Saltwater

Also Check: Syracuse Pool Companies

The Problem With Chlorine

The problem with chemical based chlorine is the compounds that are created when chlorine comes into contact with contaminates called chloramines. Chloramines can be harmful in two different ways:

1/ Chloramines arent effective in disinfecting water like chlorine therefore this reduces the ability for your pool to keep clean.

2/ Chloramines are the source of the irritation to eyes, skin and lungs. Strong chloramines can build up in the air surrounding a pool and this is the smell that many attribute to chlorine.

If you are regularly exposed to chlorine, you can start to develop an allergy or sensitivity to it causing rashes, hives and itchy skin. Many people with respiratory problems such as asthma may find their problems being exacerbated by frequently being exposed to chlorine in a pool.

Another typical problem people complain about chlorine is green hair! Although chlorine isnt specifically the cause of this problem it comes from copper, typically found in chlorine tablets which causes the problem. Switching to a saltwater pool will lower the likelihood of green hair.

A quick note on the green hair problem, it is best to get a test done for heavy metals. High levels of copper in your pool could be down to algicide added to the pool and you should consider a non-copper alternative.

S For Converting An Above Ground Pool To Salt Water

Learn About Salt Water Pool Benefits, Pros and Cons, How It Works, and ...

Converting an above-ground pool to saltwater is an easy process. However, this process takes a significant amount of time and energy. If you are handy, you could use these steps and install the control box and drain the pool yourself.

However, some of these steps require work around electrical equipment, so it might make sense for some people to hire a professional electrician.

The steps for converting an above-ground pool to saltwater include draining the existing water, filling the pool back up with water, and installing the new saltwater filter and control box.

Keep reading for a list of simple steps for getting your pool ready for conversion to saltwater.

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Why Do A Salt Water Pool Conversion

Chlorinated pool water can be hard on you because of chemicals called chloramines. These compounds are created when the chlorine in your pool water comes into contact with things like urine and sweat, and they can be harmful in two ways.

First, they arent effective at disinfecting the water like chlorine, so water cleaning is inhibited. Second, they cause irritation of the eyes, skin, and lungs. Strong chloramines can build up in the air surrounding a pool, especially indoor pools. When the air is thick with these chemicals, it can even cause coughing or trigger an asthma attack.

Frequent exposure to chlorine can even cause some people to develop an allergy or sensitivity to the chemical. And for those who are already sensitive to it, swimming in a chlorine pool can cause rashes, hives, and itchy skin beyond the simple dryness you may experience from chlorine exposure.

If you have respiratory problems, such as asthma or allergic rhinitis, you may find your symptoms exacerbated by frequently swimming in a chlorine pool. If your pool is causing you discomfort, a salt water pool conversion could be just the solution youre searching for.

On the less serious side, if youre a blonde, youve probably experienced your hair turning green in a pool sanitized with chlorine. Colored hair can look great, but this probably isnt exactly the look youre going for. So why does it happen? Science!

Be A Pool Owner Worth Your Salt

While a salt water pool will save you money on chlorine, remember that your pool will still need upkeep to maintain clean, crystal clear water. But if youre concerned about the pitfalls of chlorineand youre tired of green hairsalt water conversion may be the perfect solution for you.

Happy Swimming!

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What Tools Do I Need To Convert My Pool To Salt Water

Before you start the work on converting your above-ground chlorine pool into a saltwater pool, you need some essential tools.

These tools are necessary for water draining, filling, connecting the saltwater filter device, and creating the perfect salt-to-water ratio include:

  • Saltwater control box: This is the device that does the saltwater chlorine magic. The pump in this unit takes water from your filled pool, cleans it, and puts salt and a small amount of chlorine back in for fresh pool water.
  • Salt cell
  • Drain hose
  • 240-volt outlet

Once you have this small list of tools assembled, you can begin work on draining your current chlorine pool and filling up the new saltwater pool.

Remember that a saltwater pool needs a different control box than your old pool. The area where the old control box gets installed may require some retrofitting for the chlorination device installation.

Install The Saltwater System To Your Pool

How to Convert your Swimming Pool to a Saltwater Pool a Step by Step Video

Now that you have laid all the groundwork by draining your pool, its time to choose your hardware. It would be best if you had the right saltwater pump, filter, and salination system, then you are ready for installation and turning your system on.

Installing the saltwater system to your current above-ground pool requires the following steps:

  • Balance water: Your installation instructions tell you what the water balance is. Make sure that the water level is correct by filling the pool with your hose.
  • Add pool-grade salt: Add the required amount of pool-grade salt so that the water has the correct concentration for use. If you have a larger pool, you will need more salt. Check the guidance on the salt that you buy at the pool store. The salt needs to spread across the surface of the pool. Ensure a good mixture by waiting 24 hours for the salt to dissolve and diffuse throughout all of the water in your pool.
  • Saltwater Pool Chlorination: 2,500-3,500 ppm
  • Sea Water: 35,000 ppm
  • Mount Chlorinator: The chlorinator is the control box that mixes the parts of salt and chlorine at the appropriate levels into the saltwater pool. The chlorinator should get mounted on the wall next to the pool equipment already installed.
  • Connect chlorinator to power: The chlorinator needs a 240-volt connection of power. Hardwire it into wiring from a power source or plug it into the power socket near the existing pool equipment.
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    How Much Do Saltwater Above Ground Pools Cost

    The cost of a saltwater pool is initially more than that of chlorine pools. Thats because the installation and initial purchase for a saltwater chlorination system can be around $1,000 to $2,000 depending on your pool size. However, in time, it could save you money since you wont have to buy chlorine tablets as often.

    Is Going Back To Chlorine A Good Idea For Everyone

    Absolutely not! Traditional chlorine pools require more maintenance than saltwater pools in most cases, which means that many people might find them to be a headache. Speaking of headaches, its also worth noting that there are tons of people who cant stand the smell of chlorine.

    When you first shock a chlorine pool, the smell can be heavy. In fact, it can even irritate the lungs of people who have sensitive airways. If you do not do well with chemical smells, then you might want to stick to saltwater. It might be more expensive, but you wont be left gasping for air later on. After all, thats why they are so popular. Theyre gentle.

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    How To Convert From Chlorine To A Salt Water Pool

    • Written by Kenneth Rivera on Sep 26, 2010To ensure our content is always up-to-date with current information, best practices, and professional advice, articles are routinely reviewed by industry experts with years of hands-on experience.Reviewed by

    People who swim as a form of exercise or athletes who undergo swim-training in a pool prefer a salt water pool against a chlorinated water pool because saltwater is advantageous to the skin and hair. Chlorine contains hazardous chemicals used mainly for cleaning and maintenance. When human skin is exposed to relatively high levels of chlorine, skin irritation occurs. Preparation for the conversion of pool water from chemical chlorination to salt water chlorination may be done in two ways.

    Step 1 Preparation before the Conversion Process

    Since draining water completely from the pool is needed before conversion to salt water chlorination, it is best advised that the local government of the area be consulted for rules regarding disposal of old water into the areas waste system. There may be requirements of testing and inspection needed of the old water prior to disposal. The draining of water may need some neutralizing chemicals infused into it which may be costly and at the same time tests and confirmation done on the water may be a long process.

    Step 2 Draining of the Old Water and Refilling

    Step 3 Stabilizing Pool Water without Draining

    Step 4 Adding on Salt to the Pool

    Step 5 Checking for Water Salinity

    S To Converting Your Pool To Saltwater

    Can I Convert My Pool to a Saltwater System? 2021 Average Cost to ...
  • Balance the water in your pool according to your installation manual specifications.
  • Note: You do not need to drain your pool.
  • Add the required amount of pool-grade salt to achieve the desired concentration. Salt quantity is based on the volume of water in your pool. The bigger the pool, the more salt is needed.
  • Broadcast the salt across the pool surface it may take up to 24 hours to fully dissolve.
  • Note: Consult your installation manual. The manual should provide a table detailing the amount of salt required. to view our guide to salt chlorination.
  • Mount the chlorinator controller on a wall near your pool equipment pad. Make sure to consult the installation manual for best results.
  • Wire the chlorinator controller for power according to the manual specifications.
  • Install the chlorinator cell into the pool plumbing after the filter.
  • Note: The chlorinator cell should be the last piece of equipment on the pool pipe before the water returns to the pool.
  • Connect the chlorinator cell to the chlorinator controller. Thats it for the pool equipment!
  • Turn on the pool pump, check for any leaks and operate it for several hours to help circulate the water and dissolve the salt.
  • Turn on the salt chlorinator and start enjoying your salt water pool!
  • Once you have converted to a saltwater swimming pool, continue maintenance as usual. This will help to assure clean, clear water and extend the life of your pool equipment.

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    What To Consider Beforehand

    Saltwater pools require a larger initial investment. But you will save on chlorine in the long run.

    Saltwater systems are also more complex than chlorine pools. They have more parts, such as the circuit board, salt cell, flow sensor, and flow switch. So you may need to hire an experienced technician if you ever encounter issues with the system.

    Salt is corrosive and has the potential to damage certain materials. It also creates high pH levels and calcium build-up in pool equipment. So you have to take precautions, such as balancing the water and maintaining salt cells.

    You should also avoid using specific types of pool liner, heaters, lighting, fixtures, and masonry that will corrode over time. Instead, use a cupronickel heater, or install a sacrificial zinc anode that will absorb all the corrosion.

    Using The Right Type Of Salt

    You can use non-iodized salt purchased in bulk from a hardware store or home goods store. You can also find it in large bags labeled pool salt.

    Follow the manufacturers instructions for your chlorine generator to determine how much salt you should use.

    To add salt to your pool water, distribute it evenly while walking around your pool. Use a pool brush to stir the water until the salt has dissolved.

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    Why Switch To A Saltwater Pool

    Many of the negatives from chlorine pools, such as the “chlorine smell,” skin and eye irritation, and the constant maintenance of chlorine levels don’t even exist with salt pools. And while you will still check the chemicals regularly, you’ll typically make less frequent adjustments since you’ll see fewer peaks and valleys in chemical and pH levels. With of fewer spikes in chlorine, irritation of eyes and skin is less common, and the pool’s water is gentler on hair and clothing. Water in a saltwater system also tends to feel “softer” and more luxurious to swim in.

    And even though they cost more upfront, saltwater pools save money in the long-term due to less maintenance and chemical use.

    Why Would A Salt Pool Be Better Than A Chlorine Pool

    How do I convert my pool to salt?

    If youre reading this right now youre most likely contemplating on converting your chlorine pool into a little Dead Sea in your backyard, which is as cool as it sounds. Heres little brief explanation as to why a salt water pool might be safer and more convenient than your boring chlorine pool. Even though chlorine pools have been around since the 1970s they have only recently started to gain popularity due to its lower prices to upkeep them. Salt water is as well way healthier for your hair, eyes and makes you have softer skin and only by its name you can tell salt water is healthier and kicks chlorine waters ass. So if you read this far Im assuming youre rather convinced and youd like to take advantage of all these benefits. Now the conversion itself isnt as hard as it sounds like so youre in luck, and we got you.

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