Popular Guides

DIY Friendly Guide to Converting ANY Pool to Saltwater
Saltwater pool conversion" might sound like there is a lot involved. If you're wondering how you convert to salt, it really doesn't involve any big procedures...
Read More



Join Our Newsletter
Latest Guides

3 Simple Steps to Convert Your Chlorine Pool to Saltwater for Less Maintenance, Lower Costs & Better Swimming
This complete DIY-friendly guide will help you make the switch from costly chlorine maintenance to simple saltwater chlorination.
Making the switch to saltwater doesn’t just change your approach to pool care—it changes how much money you spend on chemicals, the time you invest in maintaining your pool, and how you feel in the water.
When I talk to pool owners, the biggest point of frustration is often expensive maintenance. As millions have come to learn, pool care is less costly when you convert to saltwater. That’s because you need fewer chemicals to keep the water balanced.
Easier, less costly maintenance is just one of the benefits. By converting to saltwater, you can say goodbye to green hair, burning eyes and dry skin. It’s a win-win.
The truth is, you can convert your pool in 3 simple steps – no need for draining the pool or any complicated system changes. For most pool owners, the conversion takes as little as one hour, while others may take up to three to four. Regardless, the time investment for initial setup is well worth it.
Curious how to make the switch quickly and easily? Let’s break down the simple steps to get you started.
Have an above ground pool? Read our step-by-step guide to convert your above ground pool to saltwater.
Table of Contents:
What is a salt pool?
If you’re not entirely sure what a salt pool is, it’s simple: instead of manually adding chlorine, a salt pool uses a salt chlorine generator (SCG) to create chlorine from salt, effectively sanitizing your pool.
The SCG creates pure chlorine from salt dissolved in the water using electricity. The SCG runs automatically every day when your pump is running, and it generates chlorine at a set rate to provide a steady, reliable source of pure chlorine.
Each week, test the water chemistry (free chlorine, pH, salinity, and other levels). You’ll probably need to adjust your water chemistry when you’re first getting started. If you notice chlorine levels are too high, you turn the SCG’s production down. If levels are too low, you simply turn it up.
Once everything is set to meet your pool’s needs, you’ll typically see the free chlorine level is maintained consistently. If anything, adjustments are usually only needed seasonally.
Key things to remember about salt pools:
- Salt pools generate chlorine using a salt chlorine generator.
- No need to regularly buy and add chlorine, shock, or algaecide. Salt chlorine generators use electrolysis to create chlorine from salt.
- You still need to test your water chemistry for chlorine, pH, salinity, CYA, alkalinity, and other levels to keep your pool properly balanced.
Why Convert to Saltwater?
Are you tired of spending hundreds of dollars and countless hours maintaining your pool? Between testing, balancing, and constantly adding chlorine, traditional pools can feel like a never-ending chore. Saltwater systems make pool care simpler. You can save $200-$600 per year on chemicals, depending on the size of your pool, and cut down on maintenance time.
Think about it: fewer chemicals, fewer headaches, and more time enjoying your pool. It’s the solution homeowners have been waiting for.
Save Time on Pool Maintenance
Instead of being surprised by a pool suddenly turning cloudy or green, imagine a consistently crystal-clear, inviting pool. That’s the reality with a saltwater system.
Traditional pools rely on manual effort and get inconsistently chlorinated. Based on your settings, saltwater systems automatically generate just the right amount of chlorine. The salt doesn’t evaporate, so it’s not continuously added. The generator keeps everything running smoothly, so you can swim more and shock your pool less.
Cut Chlorine Costs by up to 40-50%
Saltwater pools are an investment that can easily pay for itself. By switching, you can cut your chemical costs by as much as 50%. Instead of manually adding chlorine, your generator does the work for you—requiring minimal adjustments throughout the year. Less money spent on chemicals means more savings for you.
Enjoy Cleaner, Gentler Water
Ever wonder why your pool smells strongly of chlorine or why your eyes burn after a swim? That’s due to chloramines, formed when chlorine reacts with sweat, sunscreen, and other contaminants. Saltwater systems reduce chloramines, meaning you get clearer, softer water that’s gentle on your skin and hair—no more burning eyes or dry skin after a swim.
Benefits of converting your pool:
- You get gentler water with a more natural feel.
- Less intensive maintenance throughout the year.
- You only need to add salt 1-2 times per year, depending on usage and environment.
- Much lower cost of ownership over time.
Prepping for a salt pool conversion
Getting ready for a saltwater pool conversion is much easier than you might think. No mountains of prep work here—just a few simple steps to get your pool set up for success.
Do I need to drain my pool for a saltwater conversion?
Good news: Draining your pool is not only costly (up to $100 per 1,000 gallons), but also completely unnecessary for a saltwater conversion.
The chlorine you’re already using is fully compatible with a salt chlorine generator, so there’s no need to start from scratch.You’re simply changing how the chlorine is created, not eliminating it altogether.
Salt pools are ten times lower in salinity than the ocean, which is why they don’t taste like salt. As a result, SCGs only require a very low level of salinity that’s safe for typical pool surfaces, pool equipment, and the pool environment. You add salt directly to the swimming pool water during the installation process.
Once the salt dissolves, it gets continually recycled by the generator. It doesn’t get used up or evaporate from the water as the chlorine is made, unlike traditional chlorine. The “salt” aspect of the pool is really the easiest part – you'll almost forget it's there.
Do I need to change my pool’s filter or pump?
The great news is, your salt chlorine generator typically works perfectly with the pump and filter you already have—no need to replace anything. They are designed to work regardless of what brand of the pump and filter you currently use.
If you’re looking to save even more time and money on pool maintenance, you might want to consider upgrading to a variable speed pump. It’s an easy way to maximize efficiency while introducing better filtration overall.
Should I test and balance my pool water before starting the conversion?
Yes, it’s a good idea to test and balance your pool water before starting the saltwater conversion. Having your water chemistry in check sets you up for a smoother transition. Here’s why:
Proper Water Chemistry
Ensuring your pool’s water chemistry is balanced from the start (especially free chlorine and pH). This will help your salt chlorine generator work more efficiently from the start.
Avoid Issues Later On
If you have algae or greenish water to start, it’ll be an uphill battle from the start of the conversion process. Balancing your water before a salt pool conversion helps avoid the headaches of scaling, cloudy water, or other maintenance issues once the conversion is complete. Taking a few minutes to test and adjust the water beforehand can save you time down the road.
Simpler Setup
Starting with balanced water means your generator can immediately begin producing chlorine at the right levels, making it easier to maintain consistent sanitation as you switch to salt chlorination.
In short, testing and balancing your water before the conversion ensures a clean, easy start for your new saltwater system.
Add pool grade salt to the water
After you’ve balanced your water and before you install your salt chlorine generator, you’ll want to add pool grade salt to the water. You’ll need about 30 lbs of salt for every 1,000 gallons of water, bringing your pool to the ideal salinity level of 3,000 to 3,500 ppm.
How to add salt to your swimming pool.
How much salt do I need to add to complete the conversion?
For example, with a 15,000-gallon pool, you’ll need roughly 450 lbs of salt. You can usually pick up pool-grade salt at any home improvement store for around $5 to $10 per 40-lb bag (or have it delivered).
Won’t my pool taste like the ocean if I add all this salt?
Don’t worry about your pool tasting salty! The salt levels are far lower than the ocean—your pool’s salinity will be around 3,000 ppm, while seawater is about 35,000 ppm.
Just pour the salt directly into the water and let your system take over. There’s no need to drain the pool, and once the salt is dissolved, your chlorine generator will start producing chlorine automatically.
Choosing the right salt
When it comes to maintaining your saltwater pool, selecting the right salt is key. It's always a good idea to use pool-grade salt to ensure that its compatible and to avoid the chance of there being additives to the salt that could cause staining) .
- Look for salt with purity levels of at least 99% pure sodium chloride (NaCl). This should be listed as a percentage on the packaging.
- Models can technically have a wider operational range, but generally speaking the sweet spot of 3,000 - 3,500 ppm ensure that most systems will have optimal performance and a long lifespan.
- While plain, regular Water Softener salt may often be used by pool owners, be sure to read the SCG manual carefully in order to choose such salt and to avoid potential issues.
How to prepare for conversion:
- You don’t need to drain your pool to convert to saltwater.
- No major repiping or big system changes usually needed.
- Test and balance your pool water before completing the conversion.
- Add salt before starting the conversion process to ensure proper water balance.
Convert your pool in 3 simple steps

Salt Pool Genius
- Find
- Install
- Set
Step 1: Choose the right salt chlorinator
Start by selecting the right salt chlorine generator for your pool’s size, usage, and climate. A properly sized generator ensures consistent chlorination can limit how often you need to add salt or shock your pool.
Things to think about when choosing an SCG:
Pool size
Manufacturers list chlorine generators by “maximum efficiency,” or the largest pool they can handle. For best results, choose a generator with a capacity at least 1.5 to 2 times your pool’s actual size. For example, for a 20,000-gallon pool, a 40,000 max-gallon generator is ideal.
Climate & usage
If you live in a hot, sunny area or your pool gets heavy use, consider a larger generator to meet the increased chlorine demand. More capacity means less wear on the system, longer-lasting equipment, and the ability to increase chlorine production during peak swim season.
Find your pool’s perfect Salt Chlorine Generator with our FREE tool, the Salt Pool Genius.
Step 2: Install the chlorine generator
Installing a salt chlorine generator is straightforward, with two main tasks:
Connect the generator to your pool’s plumbing
This allows the salt cell to distribute chlorine through the pool’s circulation system. Follow the instructions to place it after your existing equipment (pump, filter, heater) and ensure the cell is securely connected to the plumbing.
Mount the controller and connect the power
The control box is mounted near your pool equipment and usually connected to the same power source as your pump. This syncs the system so they run together, producing chlorine whenever the pump is on.
Once installed, you’ve completed most of the work involved in converting the pool to salt!

Installation Guide
- Tools Needed
- Illustrations & Visual Aids
- Setup & Safety Guidelines
Step 3: Set the salt chlorine generators output level
Now that you’ve got your SCG installed and your pool’s chemistry balanced, it’s time to set the generator’s output level. The step is all about fine-tuning your system to keep the water clean without wasting time or resources.
Start with Balanced Water
Double-check that your pool water is properly balanced before turning your generator on. Again, you’ll ideally want your free chlorine, pH, and stabilizer levels especially to be in the right range.
Power up the Pump
Once your water is balanced, it’s time to flip the switch on your pool pump. As soon as the pump starts, your SCG should activate too. For many models, you’ll know it’s working when status lights like the green “power” or “generating” lights turn on. If the SCG has a clear cell, you’ll usually also see a “fog” or “mist” being produced in between the titanium plates inside - that’s the chlorine!
If you see the system go through a startup process, like having a “no-flow” light flashing, don’t panic! This is typically the system making sure everything’s working correctly. Give a SCG at least 60 seconds once the pump gets going.
Dialing the Right Output
To kick things off, it's often recommended to set your generator’s chlorine output to 75%. This is usually a good starting point to get a feel for how much chlorine your pool needs. Over the next couple of days, keep an eye on your free chlorine levels using a test kit or test strips.
After 1-2 days, check your chlorine levels:
- Too high? Turn the output down a notch.
- Too low? Bump up the output a little.
It's usually good to make incremental changes, but if levels are much too high or low, you might make proportionally larger adjustments. Over the first week, you should expect to do a few adjustments. But once you find the sweet spot, your system will do the hard work of regularly generating the chlorine your pool needs to help keep your chlorine levels consistent.
Seasonal Tweaks
Remember, as the weather changes, so do your pool’s needs. When the summer heat rolls in or you have a pool party, you might notice that you need to slightly increase the chlorine output to keep your pool sanitized.
After one-off things like pool parties or even storms, consider using the SCG’s temporary boost mode which will have the system run at full output for a cycle and then return to its previously set output.
You can dial it back down once the weather gets cooler or usage decreases. The important thing here is to test the water and adjust the SCG as needed!
By properly setting your SCG, you’ll cut down on manual maintenance while keeping your water clean and ready for swimming at all times.
Recapping the steps to convert your pool to saltwater:
- Choose the right chlorine generator
- Install the chlorine generator by connecting it to the pool’s existing plumbing, mounting the controller and connecting to the power.
- Set the output level of your salt chlorine generator to 75% initially. Test and adjust the output settings as needed to keep your pool maintenance automated.
Life after converting your pool
Now that you’ve made the switch to a saltwater pool, what can you expect when it comes to upkeep? While your salt chlorine generator takes care of producing chlorine (which for most people represents the majority of pool chemical hassle), you’ll still need to monitor and balance your overall water chemistry just like any other pool.
The good news? You’ll no longer have to regularly, manually add large amounts of chlorine, making your maintenance routine much simpler.
Ongoing pool care
Keeping your saltwater pool in great condition is fairly simple. In fact, these tips mostly apply to all pools. Here’s what to focus on:
Daily Tasks
To keep things looking great, skim the surface for debris like leaves, insects, and other floating materials. Keeping debris out helps the filtration system run smoothly and keeps the debris from becoming food for microorganisms.
Weekly Tasks
Test your water for free chlorine and pH levels. It’s a quick process that ensures your salt chlorine generator is producing the right amount of chlorine. This is a good time to clean out your skimmer basket and check your pool filter’s pressure gauge (so you can know when the filter eventually needs to get cleaned).
Monthly Tasks
On top of weekly maintenance, you’ll want to ensure these levels are balanced (which can often need less frequent attention):
- Alkalinity
- Calcium hardness
- Cyanuric acid (CYA)
- Salt
Lastly, if needed, scrub the pool walls and vacuum the floor to prevent dirt or sediment buildup.
Every 3 Months
Inspect the SCG’s cell for calcium buildup or scaling.
When needed or when indicated by the system, clean the cell according to its product manual, typically with a mix of water and muriatic acid (5 parts water to 1 part acid on average). Be sure to read the instructions carefully and wear protective gear, like gloves and a mask. Let the salt cell foam in the mixture for about ten minutes. This process dissolves mineral scaling if it has accumulated. When finished, rinse thoroughly with a hose.
Here’s a guide on how to clean your salt cell for more information.
By following these simple steps, you’ll maximize the lifespan of your salt chlorine generator and enjoy a pool that’s always ready for a swim.
Remember, while saltwater pools make maintenance much easier, they’re not set-and-forget systems. But with a little attention, you’ll spend less time on upkeep and more time enjoying the water.
Common questions about converting pools to saltwater
Absolutely, YES! At Discount Salt Pool, we’ve helped hundreds of thousands of pool owners make the switch from traditional chlorine to easy, automatic salt chlorination. It’s a simple upgrade—just add an electronic chlorine generator to your existing system, and you’re set!
Here’s what you’ll need to budget for:
- Chlorine Generator: The cost of a generator usually equals what you’d spend on chlorine and shock over 1-2 swim seasons. Prices range from $450 to $2,000 depending on the features, type, brand, and pool size (often in the lower middle of that range).
- Installation: Many chlorine generators are DIY-friendly, but if you prefer professional installation, costs vary. DIY installations typically require basic tools like PVC fittings, glue, a screwdriver, and a hacksaw or pipe cutters. If hiring a pro, expect it to take about an hour.
- Salt: The initial amount of salt depends on your pool size and usually costs between $50 and $150. The good news? Salt doesn’t get used up, so you won’t need to frequently keep adding more.
More: How Much Does Everything Cost To Convert Your Pool To Saltwater?
No, not at all!
The salinity in a saltwater pool is around 3,000 ppm, which is much closer to freshwater (less than 1,000 ppm) than ocean water (about 35,000 ppm). In fact, the salt level is even lower than a human tear (around 9,000 ppm), and far below what you can taste (about 4,500 ppm).
Yes, it can be! A salt chlorine generator uses about the same amount of power as a few light bulbs, so it doesn’t significantly impact your energy usage.
However, many pool owners with traditional chlorine systems leave their pumps running 24/7 to keep up with inconsistent chlorination. With a saltwater system, you’ll have more consistent chlorination, which means you can reduce excessive pump run times—leading to potential energy savings.
Yes!
When you convert to saltwater, the salt chlorine generator is simply added to your existing pump and filter system. There’s typically no need to replace other components if they’re working properly. Salt chlorine generators are designed to work with virtually all types of pumps, filters, and controls used in permanently installed pools.
The salt level is very low, making it safe for most pool surfaces and equipment, and it has been used successfully for decades, becoming the standard for modern pool care.
Keep Reading
If you want to dive a little deeper into converting your pool to salt chlorination instead of traditional chlorine chemical maintenance, check out a few of these resources:
- 3 Common Myths About Salt Pools
- How Do You Use A Salt Pool System?
- Saltwater Pool System: How Does It Work?
- Saltwater System Guide: Find Your Perfect Fit
Tagged Products
- Newer Model:Autopilot ChlorSync CS30
- Comparable Model:CircuPool RJ30
- Or, thinking about upgrading your system?
Interactive Guide →
- Other Model Size:AQR9 Salt System
- Comparable Model:Universal25 Salt System
- Alternative Model:CS30 Salt System
- Or, thinking about upgrading your system?
Interactive Guide →
with 8-Year Limited Warranty, for up to 15,000 gallon poolsReplacing An Existing Chlorine Generator?
Add an Adapter Kit to eliminate re-plumbing.
-
Get Expert Help
- Read The Comments
Who We Are:
At Discount Salt Pool, we're pool owners who want to help other pool owners enjoy the simplicity and the savings of saltwater chlorine generators. Unlike the pool store or pool pros, we're not the last step of a long & overpriced distribution chain. We're lifelong swimming pool enthusiasts & experts with decades of experience in the industry who want to give other pool owners direct access to the best pool technology that's out there- along with unlimited access to our friendly customer support and online DIY resources. Discount Salt Pool is a BBB member with an A+ rating.
Did You Know?
DiscountSaltPool.com is America's largest specialty provider of saltwater swimming pool equipment. Since 1997, we've helped hundreds of thousands of people convert their pool to salt! Order online today, come visit our Texas headquarters, or call in for personalized help and recommendations.
Comments (0)
Add Commentjohn allen
I have a 20x40 pool im interested in over to salt what would u recommend for doing this
DSP Staff
If its rectangular, that could be about 30,000 gallons. You may want to pick out a salt chlorinator rated for at least a 45,000 gallon max capacity or more.
We're happy to go over all the details about the pool and help you pick out the right system if you call: 866-766-5243.
In the meantime, you can read more about that here: https://www.discountsaltpool.com/how-to-choose-the-right-salt-system-for-your-pool
Leslie Armstrong
Please share the information on the capacity for small, medium and large pools. Our pool will hold 8,640 Gallons.
DSP Staff
This link will take you to a page that has categorizes salt systems that are rated for different pool sizes.
robert f steffen
I HAVE A SYSTEM WITH ALL KINDS OF MIXING VALVES ND AREA WITH ROOM FOR 12 INCHES OF PIPE T0ADD A SALT SYSTEM
DSP Staff
Give us a call and we may be able to help you figure out what you are looking at, 866-766-5243. We have salt systems that can get installed in as little as 7-10" of space.
Paul McCarty
I live in central Alabama. I Have an above ground 15 x 30 x 4 oval pool. Calculates out to be about 12,000 gal water volume. Right now I have a 1.5hp jacuzzi pump with a sand filter. We have been using Clorox Xtra Blue 3 inch chlorinating tablets. What salt system do you think will be adequate for this system. And is there a need to reduce the current chlorine level when converting to salt?
DSP Staff
If your pool is current up and running, there is not typically anything else that you need to do beside installing the salt chlorinator and adding the salt to the water
At that pool size, you may want to pick out a salt chlorinator rated for at least a 20-30,000 gallon max capacity or more.
We're happy to go over all the details about the pool and help you pick out the right system if you call: 866-766-5243.
In the meantime, you can read more about that here: https://www.discountsaltpool.com/how-to-choose-the-right-salt-system-for-your-pool
Ben Vasquez
I want to convert my pool to a salt pool what do I need
DSP Staff
You just need a salt chlorinator!
In addition to this article, you can see more here about how to convert your swimming pool to saltwater
Jeffrey Wells
Would like to switch my 21.120 gal in ground pool to salt.
DSP Staff
At that pool size, you may want to pick out a salt chlorinator rated for at least a 30-40,000 gallon max capacity or more.
We're happy to go over all the details about the pool and help you pick out the right system if you call: 866-766-5243.
In the meantime, you can read more about How To Choose The Right Salt System For Your Pool
Lewis Agin
What do you do when your pool is 40,000 gallons which is above the 20,000 limit for a salt chenerator?
DSP Staff
If you already have a salt system, and for some reason its too small for the pool, its worth checking if that model can accept a larger capacity cell on it. Some can, some only work with one cell type.
Andrew
You would want to look at a 60,000 max gallon model like the RJ60+ system
kevin
I have a inexpensive clomen pool (300.) Is there a converter I can use to make this a salt water pool. The pool is 10ft. by 16ft and 4 ft. deep. Is it worth it for me to use salt water verse convention. Thanks
Nathan
You may like the easy to use MegaChlor model which is less expensive too.
Justin Adams
I have 2 return lines, one to each side of the pool. Which side should it be installed on? Does it matter?
DSP Staff
Justin, ideally you would put the salt chlorinator "upstream" from where the return line splits to go back to different return jets. Sometimes due to the space available you may need to do a little plumbing to achieve this. If that is impossible, then adding the salt chlorinator after the split would mean that the chlorinated water would just be coming back to one "side" of the pool.
Dawn stevens
My gunite pool was built in 1967, with a stainless steel pool filter. Will I be able to convert to salt water???
Aaron
Gunite pools and stainless steel components are very common in swimming pools. As long as your plumbing is PVC, you should likely be just fine.
Terry Sanders
We have a 300 gal. vinyl Intex spa and woud like to change over to salt. Can we do this and what would you recommend? Thanks
DSP Staff
You may like a spa model like this one: https://www.discountsaltpool.com/controlomatic-chlormaker-spa-chlorine-generator
Russell Harmon
I have a 15 foot round, above ground pool. That holds about 6,400 gal. What system would be the choice & how much would it be?
DSP Staff
You typically want a salt system that can handle at least 1.5x to 2x the water in your pool. You can see a little more sizing information here: https://www.discountsaltpool.com/what-size-salt-pool-system-is-right-for-me Based on the size you mention, one of the systems on this page would likely be a good fit: https://www.discountsaltpool.com/salt-water-chlorine-generators-for-small-pools
margarita
I have 18,000 gallon 24*52 round above ground pool what kind of system would i need
DSP Staff
You typically want a salt system that can handle at least 1.5x to 2x the water in your pool. You can see a little more sizing information here: https://www.discountsaltpool.com/what-size-salt-pool-system-is-right-for-me Based on the size you mention, one of the systems like the CS30 or Universal25 on this page would likely be a good fit: https://www.discountsaltpool.com/salt-water-chlorine-generators-for-small-pools
Terri Chamblee
When your pool is still green and you’re converting back to salt all the equipment is in. We’ve got a 25,000 gallon inground pool. We bought 15 bags 40 pounds each and have started putting the salt in just dumping it around the all around the edge of the pool can’t finish it in one day. So do we keep the pump running 24 hours until we get all of the salt in?
DSP Staff
Terri, essentially you want to just keep adding salt until you reach your salt chlorine generator's specified salinity range, typically near 3000-3500ppm depending on model. Running your pump will help the salt dissolve by circulating the water. A good rule of thumb is to test the water's salinity at least 24 hours after adding salt, to give it enough time to dissolve. If you have more questions about your equipment, give us a call at 866-766-5243
Janet
Hi I have bestways powersteel 20 by 48 above ground pool. What would I need to do to convert it to a saltwater pool?
DSP Staff
That calculates to be about 9500 gallons of water. Give us a call so we can give you more detailed recommendations (866-766-5243). In general, you could take a look at the Controlomatic Megachlor for an inexpensive option, or one of the more permanent salt chlorine generators on here : https://www.discountsaltpool.com/salt-water-chlorine-generators-for-small-pools
Patty
have a above ground poolbut it just has two holes at the top. We already bought a salt and sand filter pump that had 3 hoses to it .the holes on the pool are on the top part ground poolbut it just has two holes at the top. We already bought a salt and sand filter pump that had 3 hoses to it .the holes on the pool are on the top part of the pool can we use this pump at all? There's not like a return whole. Am I screwed?
Susan Woofter
What do you recommend for converting a hot tub to salt water?
DSP Staff
Good question - there are tailor-made salt chlorine generators for hot tubs and spas! It is very easy to add and simple to use. You can see those models here: https://www.discountsaltpool.com/saltwater-chlorinators-for-spas-hot-tubs-and-swim-spas
Ricky
My pool is green and not clear. Do I have to get it clear before changing over to a salt system ?
DSP Staff
For the salt chlorine generator that you would be adding, all that it needs to work is for enough salt to be added in the water. Practically speaking though, if the pool is very bad (and especially if you need to drain any water first) it will likely be most efficient to take care of major issues first. Once you're sure you don't need to drain any water, you can install the salt chlorine generator, add the salt to the pool water, and then let the salt chlorine generator run constantly at 100% so it is adding as much of chlorine as possible to the pool water that you might need, and then once your chlorine levels are in range you can reduce its operation as needed. If you have more questions, feel free to speak with our product experts at 866-766-5243.
Kathy brown
Will salt chlorination hurt my pebble tech lining?
DSP Staff
No, salt chlorine generators are safe for pool surfaces and equipment. It is extremely common for people with pebble-tec pools to have a salt system.
Darci
We have everything set up and hooked up for our new salt chlorinator converter. I know that you need to add salt to the pool and run it through your sand filter for 24 hours before you turn the converter on. My question is, can we run water through the converter without turning it on and without harming it? We have all of our hoses already hooked up and connected to our converter because that was the only feasible way that it would work for us.
DSP Staff
Simply leave the salt chlorinator off until your pool's salinity has reached the right level, then you can turn it on.
Bobbi
We replaced our liner, put the winter chemicals in and closed our pool without hooking the pump back up last year. We have added a salt chlorinator to our system. What is the best way to open the pool?
DSP Staff
The main thing that the salt chlorine generator needs is the salt to be added in the pool water. If when opening your pool you think that the water may require being drained to some degree (say because of excessive algae), do this first since the draining would remove some of the salt that you would add. Once the salinity level of the pool is proper, use the chlorine generator to provide as much sanitation as possible to the pool water to ensure that the water stays blue and clear.
Christine Kobrynich
Can I remove my chlorine feeder and replace it with the salt cell?
DSP Staff
If you have the space available, you could install the chlorine generator adjacent to the chlorine tablet feeder (and of course, stop adding chlorine to it on a regular basis). Otherwise yes, it would common to remove the chlorine feeder and put the chlorine generator in its place.
Mike
Do I run the retuning salt water through my sand filter
DSP Staff
Mike, you’ll install the salt chlorine generator as the last piece of equipment the water goes through before returning to the pool. Example: https://www.discountsaltpool.com/assets/images/installation-example-of-salt-chlorine-generator-system.jpg
Kelly
Does a salt system replace the need for chlorine and for pH balancing chemicals, etc.?
DSP Staff
A salt system is a chlorine generator, so a properly-size model takes care of your daily chlorination needs without the need to manually buy and add chlorine or shock. You'll still balance your water chemistry, but the lion's share of the work & expense for most pools is the chlorine. For many people after adding a chlorine generator, you may balance your pH a few times a month (varies by pool), and then balance the other supplementary levels as needed (usually seasonally).
Jim Hopper
I am converting to a salt system. My pool is 30,000 gallons how much salt do I need to add to pool.
Staff
So, if there is not currently any salt in the water, you'll add about 30lbs of salt for every 1000 gallons of water.