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Spring opening tips and conversion advice for saltwater pools

April 1, 2012

Ready to test

At this stage, both traditional and saltwater pools are ready for water testing and balancing. To do this, take an elbow-deep water sample from an area in the pool away from the return lines. Test for and adjust total alkalinity (TA), calcium hardness, CYA, and pH as required to properly balance the water.

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Test strips can be used make sure salt levels are adjusted to fall within the recommended range provided by the electrolytic chlorine generator (ECG) manufacturer.

Saltwater pools will require one additional step, which involves testing the water for salt levels. Maintaining an appropriate salt level is critical for the ECG to function properly; therefore, it is important to make sure salt levels are adjusted to fall within the recommended range provided by the ECG manufacturer (typically between 3,000 and 4,000 parts per million [ppm]). This test is usually performed using test strips or an electronic meter. If using a meter, make sure the water temperature is at least 15 C (59 F) or higher.

Once the water is balanced and salt levels are in the proper range, run the ECG on its highest level of chlorine output for at least 24 hours to establish between one and four parts per million of free chlorine. Then, decrease the output or pump runtime according to the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain the proper chlorine level throughout the season.

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING WATER BALANCE
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Balanced water simply means pool water chemicals and minerals are within their target ranges for optimum performance.

Once saltwater pools are ready for the season, maintaining balanced water is one of the keys to a great swimming experience, all season long. Balanced water simply means pool water chemicals and minerals are within their target ranges for optimum performance, as follows:
• 7.2 to 7.8 pH;
• 80 to 120 parts per million (ppm) total alkalinity (TA);
• 200 to 450 ppm calcium hardness;
• 50 to 80 ppm cynauric acid (CYA, [CNOH]3);
• 1 to 4 ppm chlorine (Cl); and
• 3,000 to 4,000 ppm salinity (follow manufacturer recommendations).

 

 

The importance of pH
Of the various factors influencing water balance, pH is the most important. It affects water quality, swimmer comfort, pool finishes and equipment, and even the efficacy of chlorine itself. In saltwater pools, the electrolytic process, which generates chlorine from salt molecules, drives pH up, and a pool with high pH can encounter several problems, such as cloudy water, scale formation and staining. High pH also lowers the efficacy of chlorine as a sanitizer.

First balance total alkalinity
The basic rule of thumb is to balance total alkalinity first, followed by pH, then calcium hardness. The correct levels of calcium (Ca) depend on the average water temperature. The colder the water, the higher the recommended calcium level, and conversely, the warmer the average water temperature, the lower the acceptable level of calcium.
To raise total alkalinity, add sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), and to decrease levels, add muriatic (hydrochloric) acid (HCl). By keeping levels within the accepted range, it acts like a shock absorber, tempering the effects of pH swings and helping to stabilize the pool. Adjusting the pH will also be required less often and becomes easier to manage.
When decreasing total alkalinity levels, it may be tempting to use sodium bisulfate (NaHSO4) or dry acid (an easier-to-handle form of acid); however, this is not recommended for saltwater pools as sulfates (SO2−4) can increase the formation of difficult-to-remove scale. Muriatic acid, while not a friendly chemical to handle, is a better solution.

Last, but not least
Another important tip for maintaining water balance is to not overproduce chlorine. Doing so will cause the electrolytic chlorine generator (ECG) to produce more sodium hydroxide (NaOH) as a byproduct of the electrolytic process, which in turn increases pH levels and shortens the ECG’s life. To avoid this, aim for the lower end of the range, especially if the pool is not heavily used.

Making the switch to salt

For customers who have been contemplating a conversion to a saltwater sanitization system, spring is the best time to make the switch. Pool water is typically diluted at startup, with fewer traditional chemicals, so it is easier to create a balanced saltwater pool. If a pool needs to be partially drained for a repair, or if a liner needs to be replaced, it can be cost effective to convert at the same time. The general idea is for customers to get a full season of saltwater swimming by converting in the spring.

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