Can a chlorinator be used to dissolve/add CYA?

[jimhokie]

I switched to a salt chlorine generator system a couple years ago, but my old chlorinator is still plumbed in. Can I put granular CYA into the chlorinator as a means to dissolve it, perhaps more quickly than the sock in the skimmer method?

Otherwise, I'm thinking of making a PVC rig to screw into the return that will allow the return flow to more quickly dissolve it. Has anyone already made something like this? I'm thinking of using a reducer to connect maybe a 4-6" diameter PVC pipe that's long enough to hold several pounds of CYA, with a filtered outlet to prevent the granules from blowing out. I'd hate to reinvent the wheel if someone already has a proven design out there!

 

[duraleigh]

If you don't need to backwash your filter for the next week, simply pour it slowly into the skimmer and let it dissolve in the filter.

 

[257WbyMag]

If you don't need to backwash your filter for the next week, simply pour it slowly into the skimmer and let it dissolve in the filter.

That's what I do when I need to add it.

 

[jimhokie]

I anticipate several backwashes while doing the initial spring cleanup, but I need to get the CYA level up in the meantime to help with the clean up--it's near zero.

 

[Smykowski]

Put it in an old sock or nylon and hang it in front of a return. Squeeze it often to speed up the process.

 

[harleysilo]

I like the idea of making something that screws into the return. Now whether or not it's worth the effort is an entirely different story.

From making water coolers for my pool i learned that i could restrict them fairly well and not cause the pump to act up. If you wanted to do that i'd just get the fitting that screws in to the return, and then maybe step it up to 3" or 4" pipe. Obviously you'd have to cap it, and allow a place for water to exit the contraption with out losing undissolved CYA. Perhaps a cap with a bunch of holes drilled in it, the sock you put your cya in will keep it in the pipe. Or if you want no sock then cover the holes with window screen you glued in.

Maybe this is over thought. How about just the fitting to screw in return and short length of pipe followed by one union to create a lip on end of pipe. Slide sock over union onto pipe and ziptie in place....

 

[woodyp]

I just put it in a nylon knee high and chunk it in the skimmer basket. Works great.

 

[duraleigh]

Woodyp has the right approach since you need to clean your filter. Using that puck feeder is a big unknown and perhaps cause you some issues no one anticipates. (clogging up)

 

[jimhokie]

Is there any concern for the effect of the presumably lower pH of the water going through the SWG if dissolving the CYA directly in the skimmer? Can it hurt the salt cell?