Can't Get Consistent Salt Measurements

pool512 · Jun 25, 2022

I'm a couple weeks in to my new SWG, and just trying to get everything to where it should be. I'm struggling with getting a good salt measurement, and need some advice how to accurately measure. Here are a variety of measurements and sources I got yesterday:
1. IntelliChlor/IntelliCenter reading: 3350ppm
2. Electronic salt meter my pool guy recommended: 3665ppm
3. Leslies AccuBlue: 3040ppm
4. Leslies other test: 3200

My IntelliChlor IC-40 says ideal is 3600. My understanding is that TFP/PoolMath recommends 200-400 above manufacturer ideal, so 3800-4000. With a spread of 600ppm, I'm struggling to understand which measure to trust so I can get my salt level to where it should be.

Thanks!

Rancho Cost-a-Lotta · Jun 25, 2022

Scroll down to Salt Test on the following page. It's a new addition. Pay close attention to the first note regarding the endpoint.

Extended Test Kit Directions Archives

www.troublefreepool.com

markayash · Jun 25, 2022

First don’t worry about it, all those measurements are within range. Most recommend 3000 to 4000.

The best kit is the Taylor 1766 to measure your levels.

ajw22 · Jun 25, 2022

pool512 said:
My understanding is that TFP/PoolMath recommends 200-400 above manufacturer ideal, so 3800-4000.

We do NOT recommend running your salt level higher then manufactures recommendations.

Pentair's recommended ideal salt level for the IntelliChlor is 3600.

Salt measurements are +/- 200 to 500 ppm depending on the type of measurement. All of your measurements are within that tolerance.

The most accurate test is the one you don't have - Taylor K-1766 Salt Test Kit

We ignore any test from Leslie.

Electronic salt meters can drift depending on their battery level.

The IntelliChlor salinity reading is only as good as it's temperature sensor.

None of your measurements are very accurate.

pool512 · Jun 25, 2022

ajw22 said:
We do NOT recommend running your salt level higher then manufactures recommendations.

Pentair's recommended ideal salt level for the IntelliChlor is 3600.

Salt measurements are +/- 200 to 500 ppm depending on the type of measurement. All of your measurements are within that tolerance.

The most accurate test is the one you don't have - Taylor K-1766 Salt Test Kit

We ignore any test from Leslie.

Electronic salt meters can drift depending on their battery level.

The IntelliChlor salinity reading is only as good as it's temperature sensor.

None of your measurements are very accurate.

Thank you for the tips. The recommendation of 200-400 over came from here:

Water Balance for SWGs

Saltwater pools are becoming more and more popular. We discuss How salt generators work and water balance tips for SWGs to run them.

www.troublefreepool.com

"First step is to adjust salt to the manufacturer’s recommended range (usually around 3000-3200 ppm but some models do need a higher level. Check your manual.) Starting out slightly higher (200-400 ppm) than the ideal level is recommended, since the salt level will tend to fall over time."

Is that not correct?

Thanks again!

ajw22 · Jun 25, 2022

pool512 said:
Thank you for the tips. The recommendation of 200-400 over came from here:

Water Balance for SWGs

Saltwater pools are becoming more and more popular. We discuss How salt generators work and water balance tips for SWGs to run them.

www.troublefreepool.com

"First step is to adjust salt to the manufacturer’s recommended range (usually around 3000-3200 ppm but some models do need a higher level. Check your manual.) Starting out slightly higher (200-400 ppm) than the ideal level is recommended, since the salt level will tend to fall over time."

Is that not correct?

Since the error on testing is +/- 200 - 500 ppm you cannot set your salt level with much accuracy.

Best just to get it around the manufacturers recommended level and if the SWG is generating you are good.

And that does not say to maintain the salt at a higher level.