- 1). Select a saltwater system. There are a variety of different saltwater systems available in the market. As of 2009, salt water converters roughly cost $1,300. These systems include a new filtration and pump system which will need to replace your existing pool filtration system. Do not attempt to convert to salt water using your chlorine based system.
- 2). Install your new saltwater system. If you're knowledgeable with your pool system and maintaining it, you should be qualified to convert your pool system without professional help. First, you need to locate the line in your pool that feeds the main pump. Close the line so that no water continues to run through it. Cut the piping and insert the saltwater generator.
If you're not familiar with your pool equipment, contact your local pool specialist to have them connect your new saltwater system. Installation takes about two hours and should cost between $150 and $200. - 3). Run electrical power to the saltwater system. Attach the control wiring to the saltwater generator and wire the system so that it turns on and off when the pool pump does.
- 4). Drain and clean your pool. While this step is not necessary in all cases, it is smart to drain your pool entirely and clean it before converting to a saltwater system. This will ensure that you have properly gotten rid of all chemical and chlorine residue in your pool water. Once the pool has been thoroughly cleaned, fill it back up. You can use a garden hose, ask your local fire department or contact a business which supplies large quantities of water.
- 5). Add salt to your pool. You can purchase large quantities of non-iodized salt from wholesale retailers or order it online and have it shipped to your house. Most systems indicate that you will need 3,000 parts per million of salt in your pool. Check your system to determine the exact requirement. For a 2,000 gallon pool you'll need about 10 to 12 large bags of salt.
As you add the salt to you pool, check the control panel for the salt water level until you reach the required amount. Once you have added all salt your saltwater system requires, run the pump for about one week solid. Check your salt levels daily during this week. Once they have leveled off and hold steady, switch to running your pump for approximately seven hours per day.
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