Saltwater pools are popular for their gentle feel and low maintenance compared to traditional chlorine pools. But sometimes, the salt level in your pool can get too high, leading to issues like salty-tasting water, corrosion of pool equipment, and malfunctioning salt chlorinators. So, how do you lower salt level in pool effectively? Let’s dive into the best ways to fix this common problem with easy steps and friendly advice.
Why Is Salt Level Important in Your Pool?
Saltwater pools rely on a salt chlorinator to convert salt into chlorine, which sanitizes the water. The ideal salt concentration usually ranges between 2,700 and 3,400 parts per million (ppm), with around 3,200 ppm being optimal for many systems. If salt levels drop below 2,500 ppm, your chlorinator won’t produce enough chlorine. Conversely, salt levels above 4,000 ppm can cause corrosion and damage pool equipment, and levels over 6,000 ppm are especially harmful.
Why Can’t You Just Let Salt Evaporate?
A common misconception is that salt evaporates along with water. In reality, salt is a mineral and does not evaporate. When pool water evaporates, salt particles remain, which actually increases the salt concentration in the remaining water. This is why evaporation alone won’t fix high salt levels and may worsen the problem.
How to Lower Salt Level in Pool: The Only Effective Method
The only way to lower salt level in pool is to dilute the salt concentration by adding fresh water. This means you have two main options:
– Top up your pool with fresh water if the salt level is only slightly high and your water level has dropped.
– Partially drain and refill your pool with fresh water if the salt level is significantly above the recommended range.
Step-by-Step Guide to Lower Salt Level in Pool
1. Test Your Pool’s Salt Level
Before making any changes, test your pool water’s salt concentration using a reliable salt test kit. Many salt chlorinators have built-in salt level readings, but these can be inaccurate due to sensor issues or dirt. A drop test kit is more precise.
Make sure your pool is at its normal water level before testing, and circulate the water for 24 hours after any adjustments to get an accurate reading.
2. Calculate How Much Water to Drain
If you need to lower the salt level significantly, you’ll have to partially drain your pool. Use this simple math:
– Determine how much your salt level exceeds the ideal level.
– Calculate the percentage of water to drain based on how much dilution is needed.
For example, if your pool salt level is 4,000 ppm but should be 3,200 ppm, that’s 800 ppm too high. If one 40-pound bag of salt raises salt by about 480 ppm in 10,000 gallons, you can estimate how much water to drain to reduce salt concentration proportionally.
3. Drain the Pool Water Safely
Use a submersible pump or a pool drainage system to remove the calculated amount of water. Avoid using your pool pump for draining below the skimmer to prevent air from entering the system.
Mark the water level before draining so you know how much water you’ve removed.
4. Refill with Fresh Water
After draining, refill your pool with fresh water from a garden hose or another clean water source. Turn on the pool pump to circulate the water thoroughly.
Wait at least a few hours, preferably 24 hours, before testing the salt level again to allow for proper mixing.
5. Repeat if Necessary
If the salt level is still too high after the first dilution, repeat the draining and refilling process until your pool’s salt concentration falls within the recommended range.
Tips to Maintain Proper Salt Levels
– Regularly check salt levels, especially after heavy rain or evaporation.
– Keep your salt cell clean to ensure accurate readings and efficient chlorine production.
– Avoid over-adding salt when initially setting up or maintaining your pool.
– If you notice salty taste, corrosion, or chlorinator issues, test salt levels immediately.
Saltwater pools offer a fantastic swimming experience, but maintaining the right salt balance is key to keeping your pool equipment safe and your water clean and comfortable. Remember, dilution by adding fresh water is your best and only effective solution to lower salt level in pool.
Keep your pool balanced, and enjoy every swim!