With some systems, important information like salt concentration and frequency of applications might be displayed directly on the generator itself for ease of reference.
Swimming pool salt is typically sold in 40–80 lb (18–36 kg) bags. You’ll most likely need at least 2-3 bags for a single treatment. However, it’s a good idea to go ahead and stock up, as you’ll be treating your pool periodically. High-purity salts dissolve faster and are easier for salt chlorine generators to process than lower-purity ones.
Like your salt chlorine generator, the concentrations indicated by salt test strips are given in parts per million. Get in the habit of checking the salinity in your pool at least 2-3 times a week to make sure your generator is operating at its targeted salt level. [3] X Research source
Most salt tables provide measurements in both pounds and PPM, which can make it easier for you to pour in just the right amount. For a 12 ft (3. 7 m) circular pool that holds 3,000 gallons (11,000 l) of water, you’d need to add 87 pounds (39 kg) of salt, or about 2 whole bags, in order to bring it up to the recommended concentration. Never add salt to your swimming pool indiscriminately. Doing so could lead to deterioration of the walls, floor, and other surfaces over time. [5] X Research source
Some salt chlorine generators may need to continue running during treatment to process the salt. Refer to the literature included with your generator to find out whether to turn it off or leave it on.
In order to ensure that it dissolves properly and prevent surface deterioration, it’s better to let the salt infuse gradually than to dump it in all at once. Some experts recommend adding a greater proportion of salt to the deep end around the main drain. The reasoning behind this is that the more water there is, the faster the salt will break down as it sinks. [9] X Research source
If you have an above-ground pool that doesn’t have a main drain, it can also help to plug a vacuum into the thru-wall skimmer input and turn the vacuum head upside down to pull water up from the bottom of the pool and keep it moving. [11] X Research source
Hold off on taking a dip until after the salt has had time to dissolve entirely. It isn’t dangerous, but it may taste or feel unpleasant.
If the salinity still looks a little low, simply add more salt to bring it up to the recommended level. Once it’s there, allow up to 48 hours for all of the salt to dissolve entirely. Remember that in most pools, the salt concentration needs to fall within the 2,500-4,500 PPM range to ensure proper sanitation.
To find out how much 1/8th of your pool’s total volume is, calculate the average depth in either inches or centimeters, then divide that number by 8. For a pool that’s 10 feet (3. 0 m) deep, for example, 1/8th would be 15 inches (38 cm) of water. When you’re done, test the water again to make sure it’s at the optimum targeted level and wait another 18-48 hours before switching on your generator.
You’re free to dive in as soon as you get your salt chlorine generator up and running again.
