SWG with no detected chlorine.

[PeteMorris]

I have a Aqua-Rite SWG as part of my pool set-up. I have had it for 14+ years, changing out the control panel on one occasion and the salt cell several times, (with the latest being 3 years ago.)

I am currently unable to produce chlorine and my pool maintenance tech is stating that my cell is no longer good and needs replacement.

my board is supplying the following:

Default 3100
Temp 86
Volts 27
Amps 4.38
Output 78%
Instant 3200
Prod AL-0
Software r1.59

It is my understanding that the voltage should be between 22.0 and 25.0 when generating chlorine, and between 30.0 - 35.0 when not generating.
Also the Amps should be between 4.5 - 7.8 when generating and 0 when not.
Based on these two readings, I believe that my cell is working properly.

Is the lack of chlorine an equipment issue, or is it a chemistry issue. Any help will be appreciated.

 

[Newdude]

Rule out the chemistry issue with an Overnight Chlorine Loss Test. If you prove there's no algae brewing, we have all the time in the world to diagnose the equipment with you manually dosing to remain free and clear of min at the low FC point of the day.

 

[3bikesrfun]

You can test the SWG Cell this way:
Take the old one and re-install it but don’t plug it in. Keep the new one plugged in and place it in a pail submerged with the pool water. Start your pump and when the low flow light goes out, see if the SWG is putting out bubbly water. Smell it as well as you should detect chlorine if it’s working.

 

[PoolStored]

You can test the SWG Cell this way:
Take the old one and re-install it but don’t plug it in. Keep the new one plugged in and place it in a pail submerged with the pool water. Start your pump and when the low flow light goes out, see if the SWG is putting out bubbly water. Smell it as well as you should detect chlorine if it’s working.

Do not do this, it would not be safe or prudent.

If you want to test output, turn your cell up to 100% and collect some water from in front of a return, it should be somewhat higher than pool water.

The other way to test output is to test your water after sunset, turn on the cell at 100% and test in the morning before sunrise...you should see a rise in FC.