How to Switch From Baquacil to a Salt Water System

Stop adding Baquacil to the pool. Old chemicals must be removed before converting to another water sanitation system.

Turn off the pump. Remove the Baquacil dispenser.

Install a salt water generator system. The unit is a round cylinder, about the size of a two liter soda bottle, that is placed on the pool plumbing system near the pump and filter. Cut the pipe on the return line that comes in after the filter and, if equipped, heater. Place the generator between the existing PVC tubing and seal the ends to prevent leaks and ensure an airtight seal.

Wire the generator into the electrical system and add the salt cell to the generator. The cell generates the electricity used to break down the salt into its components.

Clean the filter medium. Hose out and rinse the sand, cartridge or diatomaceous earth (DE) filter, or simply add a new medium. Any residual Baquacil chemicals can cause a chemical reaction with the generated chlorine and cloud the water.

Start the pump and add an algaecide to prevent algae and other bacteria from forming during the conversion process.

Test the water with a Baquacil testing kit. When the level of Baquacil reaches zero, you can begin the conversion process. Depending on the size of the pool, it may take several weeks for the Baquacil to completely disperse.

Balance the water. Recommended chemical levels for swimming pool water is a pH value of 7.5, 70-90 parts per million (ppm) of alkalinity and calcium hardness,or the amount of calcium in the water. This value should be between 250-350 ppm.

Add salt. Pellets of salt are available in 50 pound bags from hardware stores. The recommended dosage is 50 pounds per 1,200 gallons of water. Pour the salt directly into the pool with the pump running.

Test the water. When the salt level reaches around 3,000 ppm, it is ready for swimming. Each system has different suggested levels, so check the manual. Test the water weekly to make sure it remains balanced and add the necessary chemicals.