If you’ve just made the exciting leap to a saltwater pool, like a top-of-the-line Bright Icon+ Salt™ model from BrightWater Pools, or if you are looking into saltwater pool ownership, you’re probably wondering: “How many bags of salt do I add to my saltwater pool?” 

Don’t worry — BrightWater Pools is here to help you navigate the ins and outs of adding the right amount of salt to your saltwater above ground pool. But you don’t just need the right quantity of salt, you also need the right type of salt and the right application and attention to get your new pool balance just right. Are you ready to get started? 

Round Above Ground Pools and Oval Above Ground Pools: Know Your Saltwater Pool’s Volume

The first step in determining how much salt you need is knowing the volume of your pool with salt water. This is typically measured in gallons. 

For round above ground pools, multiply 5.9 x diameter (feet) x diameter (feet) x average depth (feet), and for oval above ground pools, multiply 6.7 x length (feet) x width (feet) x average depth (feet) to get your total gallon amount.

Understanding Salt Levels in Saltwater Above Ground Pools

Saltwater pools usually require a salt concentration of 3,000-3,200 parts per million (ppm). This range is ideal for ensuring your pool’s chlorine generator works efficiently to keep your water clean and safe. It’s important to check your pool system’s manual for the exact recommended level, as it can vary slightly depending on the specific equipment you’re using.

Adding Salt: How Many Bags Do You Need for an Above Ground Saltwater Pool?

Salt for pools is commonly sold in 40-pound bags. The number of bags you’ll need depends on your pool’s volume and the current salt level of the water. If you’re starting from scratch with a fresh fill of water, you’ll likely need more salt compared to just topping off an existing saltwater pool.

How much salt do you need for a “saltwater pool near me”? Here’s a simple guideline:

• For small to medium above ground pools (up to 10,000 gallons), you will probably need about five to seven 40 lb bags of salt.
• For larger above ground pools (up to 20,000 gallons), you could need around 10-15 bags.

These estimates can vary, so it’s always best to add salt gradually and test your water regularly, especially if your pool already has a partial salt concentration. If so, you can use an online calculator to estimate the amount of salt you need.

 

Choosing the Right Type of Salt for Your Saltwater Above Ground Pool

Selecting the right salt is important for the health of your saltwater above ground pool as well as your swimming pool saltwater system. Here’s what you can use.

• Pool-Grade Salt: This is your go-to choice. It’s specifically designed for pools and has high purity levels (usually 99% or higher). There are multiple brands on the market such as Morton®, Clorox®, Diamond Crystal® and more.

When the salt interacts with the saltwater chlorine generator, it converts the sodium chloride to pure chlorine – giving you gentle and natural sanitation for your above ground pool.

Avoid using:

• Rock Salt: This contains impurities that can stain and damage your pool liner and equipment.
• Table Salt: Although pure, it often contains anti-caking agents that can cloud your water and clog filters.
• Solar Salt: Often used in water softeners, solar salt isn’t usually pure enough to use in your pool.

Tips for Adding Salt to Your Saltwater Pool

Here’s the fun part — adding the salt to your pool:

• Keep the Pool Pump Running: Ensure your pool pump is on to help circulate water and dissolve the salt quickly.
• Spread Salt Evenly: Pour the salt around the perimeter of your pool, avoiding the skimmer or main drain to prevent clogging.
• Brush to Dissolve: Use a pool brush to help dissolve the salt and distribute it evenly. This prevents salt from settling and causing damage to the pool liner.
• Retest Salt Levels: After 24 hours, test the salt levels again to ensure they’ve reached the desired 3,000 ppm. Adjust if necessary.

Enjoy the Experience with Saltwater Above Ground Pools from BrightWater Pools!

At BrightWater Pools, our mission is to help you create the perfect backyard oasis. Our team of experts have over 100 combined years of industry-leading experience, bringing you the best above ground pools for sale, created just for you by the makers of Doughboy® pools. With our incredible BrightWater pool models and high-quality products, achieving the perfect salt balance is simple.

Adding salt to your Bright Icon+ Salt pool is a breeze with these tips. With consistent monitoring and the right type of salt, you’ll enjoy the luxurious, low-maintenance experience of your saltwater pool all season long. Happy swimming!

For more tips and guidance on pool maintenance, be sure to visit our resources page. We’re here to help you make the most of your beautiful saltwater pool.