Many people these days are choosing saltwater pools over the traditional chlorine systems. Saltwater pools are said to be more eco-friendly because they keep your pool water fresh and clean while using fewer chemicals. The truth, however, is that saltwater pools still use chemicals, but smaller amounts. Still many people opt for the saltwater pool as they consider it easier on the eyes skin and hair. But what if you already have a conventional chlorine pool? Can you convert above ground pool to saltwater? It’s definitely possible and in this article, we’ll go over the steps you’d need to follow.
Benefits of A Saltwater Pool
There can be many reasons for converting your conventional chlorine pool to run on saltwater instead. Although the installation of a saltwater system will cost more than a conventional system, over the long run, you may save yourself some money in pool water additives. Saltwater pools do require less maintenance, but you still won’t be completely absolved of all your maintenance routines. Saltwater pools don’t have the same chlorine-like odor as a regular pool and it won’t turn your hair green as many blonde swimmers’ experience in conventional pools. However, you will have to keep a keen eye on the pool’s structure for signs of rust and corrosion.
Choosing a Saltwater System
Saltwater chlorination systems (also known as saltwater generators) break down salt (ultimately a combination of sodium and chlorine) into its constituent elements. This allows the freed chlorine to sanitize the water. The two main types of saltwater generators include one that hangs over the edge of the pool and another that is mounted onto the water filter outside of the pool. Each type of system has its own advantages when it comes to cost, ease of maintenance and concealment, so you’ll have to weigh out these options.
Installation
Installing a saltwater generator will require emptying the pool. You might want to talk to your local municipality about any regulations regarding dumping large amounts of water before undertaking this task. And you’ll definitely want to make sure your property has the proper drainage to withstand this kind of operation. With the pool drained you’ll be able to install your new system according to the instruction manual. It will also tell you whether to add the salt while the pool is being refilled or wait until after it’s completely full again. You’ll need to calculate the proper ratio of salt and water depending on the amount of water your pool holds. Once the pool is filled and you have the ideal salt-to-water ratio you can turn on the saltwater generator. Keep an early eye on this ratio as the water begins to circulate as you’ll need to maintain the salt levels at an ideal level.
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