How to Convert Your Swimming Pool to Saltwater

Kick off Summer with a Saltwater Pool

Ah, summertime. Lemonade on the porch, vacations on the beach, and… the smell of chlorine? Although warmer weather has plenty of benefits, the smell of chlorine-filled pool water is not one of them. From “chlorine hair” to eye irritation, chlorine pools may not be the best option for you. In this article, we will explore the benefits associated with saltwater pools, common questions and answers for those looking to switch from chlorine to saltwater, and a step-by-step breakdown for converting a traditional chlorine swimming pool into a residential saltwater pool.

The Benefits of Residential Saltwater Pools

For those looking to move beyond their at-home chlorine pool and find a safer, more beneficial alternative, look no further than saltwater pools. Specifically, saltwater pools offer many benefits, including but not limited to:

• Limited chlorine exposure
• No chlorine tablet storage
• Reduced skin and eye irritation
• Minimal maintenance cost

Common Questions (and Answers)

Before switching to a saltwater swimming pool, however, there are many questions one should ask themselves to ensure that such a transition is right for you.

Does a Saltwater Pool Still Contain Chlorine?

Actually, yes it does! However, the smell is undetectable, while there are minimal amounts of chlorine. If in fact you do smell chlorine, that means there is a chemical imbalance.

Are Chlorine Tablets Needed?

Nope! Saltwater pools have something called a chlorine generator, which actually makes chlorine from salt itself. Therefore, no pesky chlorine tablets are needed ever again.

Wait… If There Isn’t a Lot of Chlorine in a Saltwater Pool, is it Clean for Swimming?

No need to worry! Just a little tip for everyone out there: chlorine pools themselves use TOO much chlorine. In fact, saltwater pools have enough chlorine to kill germs as well as algae. Sometimes, less is actually more.

Okay, So… Is There Anything I SHOULD be Scared of With a Saltwater Pool?

Maybe not scared of, but definitely double check if your pool can handle saltwater. Lots of steel or aluminum-based above ground pools will rust if you aren’t careful, while your pool warranty may be null if you add salt to it.

If you’re looking for ways to avoid rust or damage to your pool with saltwater, definitely consider using something called a sacrificial anode. Without getting too science-y, this is a device made of zinc that protects specific parts of your pool from being damaged. Plus, as it only needs to be replaced once every few years, there is virtually no maintenance.

How to Actually Transition Your Chlorine Pool to a Residential Saltwater Pool

Now that we have the questions out of the way, let’s get to the good stuff: your at-home saltwater pool conversion. First, note that you can definitely convert a chlorine pool to saltwater yourself. However, if you aren’t comfortable with electrical wiring, definitely do not hesitate to reach out to our team at Millennium Pool Service.

For the DIYers of the world, however, see our step-by-step guide below:

• First and most importantly, understand the right chlorinator for your pool. Doing some quick research or calling up your pool installation company should do the trick, but be sure to have some information on hand such as (1) the pool’s depth, (2) its exterior size/circumference/dimensions, and (3) materials that the pool is made of.
• After you have the chlorinator delivered, be sure to check if there are presently any chemicals in your pool. If there are, you will have to drain the pool entirely. Failing to do so will result in an improper pH balance, which will affect the performance of the salt.
• Next, check the pool water and make sure the chemicals are balanced.
• This is where it gets a bit tricky. Find your pool’s circuit breaker, turn it off, and then proceed to carefully install the saltwater cell and control board.
• After all is installed, dump in your salt! Be sure to follow the chlorinator instructions, and note that some calculations may need to take place.
• Lastly, be sure to insert the remaining filter and chlorinator cell.
• Connect the equipment, turn it on, and you’re ready to go!

If you’re from the DC, Maryland, or Virginia area and either have questions pertaining to a saltwater pool conversion or would prefer a hassle free installation, be sure to contact the team at Millennium Pool Service for help.