How to Convert My Pool to Saltwater?

Switching to a saltwater pool means softer water, less chlorine smell, and easier maintenance—but it’s not just dumping salt in and calling it a day. Here’s your step-by-step guide to a smooth conversion.

Step 1: Check Compatibility

Not all pools are salt-ready. Ensure your equipment can handle saltwater:

Heater, pump, and filter: Must be corrosion-resistant (stainless steel or composite parts).
Pool surface: Concrete, fibreglass, and vinyl are generally safe, but check for cracks or wear.
Local regulations: Some councils have rules about saltwater pool drainage.

Step 2: Balance Your Water

Before adding salt, balance your pool chemistry:

pH: 7.2–7.6
Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
Calcium Hardness: 200–300 ppm (for concrete) or 150–200 ppm (fibreglass/vinyl)
Drain if needed: If CYA (stabiliser) is too high (>80 ppm), partially drain and refill.

Step 3: Add Pool-Grade Salt

Calculate salt: Most systems require 5,000–6,000 ppm (≈120–150kg per 10,000L). Efficient chlorinators like the Water TechniX Atomic only require: 2,500-3,000 ppm.
Use pure salt: Choose pool-grade salt (no anti-caking agents or additives).
Distribute evenly: Broadcast salt across the pool floor and brush to dissolve.

Step 4: Install the Salt Chlorinator

Positioning: Mount the chlorinator cell after the filter and heater in the plumbing line.
Electrical setup: Hire a licensed electrician for wiring (safety first!).
Set output: Adjust chlorine production based on pool size and usage (start at 50% and tweak).

Browse efficient and budget-friendly saltwater chlorinators here

Step 5: Circulate & Test

Run the pump 24–48 hours to dissolve salt and activate the system.
Test after 48 hours:
- Salt levels: Refer to chlorinator specifications for salt levels. Use salt test strips or the chlorinator’s display.
- Free chlorine: 1–3 ppm.
- pH: Salt cells raise pH—adjust with acid as needed.

Ongoing Maintenance

Check salt monthly: Top up after heavy rain or backwashing.
Clean the cell: Soak in salt cell cleaner every 3–6 months to remove scale.
Monitor pH: Test weekly (salt systems naturally increase pH).

Need a Saltwater Chlorinator?

Browse our Saltwater Chlorinators Collection for top-rated systems, test kits, and salt. Pair with a corrosion-resistant pump for long-term reliability.

Final Tip: Saltwater pools aren’t maintenance-free—stay on top of pH and cell cleaning. But once dialled in, you’ll enjoy crystal-clear water with minimal fuss.

How to Convert My Pool to Saltwater?Updated a month ago