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Calcium hypochlorite, or cal-hypo, tends to be the best shock for an above ground pool. It is widely available, affordable, and powerful. Cal-hypo shock is typically 65% to 75% chlorine and is very effective at ridding a pool of bacteria or other contaminants.

A good rule of thumb is to add one or two 40-pound bags of salt for every inch of rain, but you’ll want to test your salt levels first to ensure you’re adding the right amount. Rainwater can dilute the salt levels in your pool, so after significant rainfall, test the levels and add the appropriate amount of salt to bring it back to the ideal level.

You do not have to drain your pool before converting it to salt water. The times when you should consider doing so are when you have been using an antibacterial agent. These sanitation products do not mix well with the saltwater system, so you will need to start fresh. You can either drain the pool or get rid of the antibacterial agent with chlorine. Check with a pool technician if you are unsure if this applies to you.

It's not a good idea to drain an aboveground pool into your yard since the pool water's chemicals can harm your plants and the surrounding ecosystem. Instead, it's best to drain the pool into an appropriate sewer so it can be processed at a water treatment plant. You might also be able to drain it into your storm drain, depending on your region. Check with your city to learn about any relevant regulations.