I think my Intex SWG is on its last legs. Keeps displaying low salt even though the cell has been cleaned and my salt level is around 3300 ppm. This will be its 5th summer. The cheapest one on Amazon is the newest model and it has Electrocatalytic Oxidation (E.C.O.) What on earth is that? It has its own electrode and cable running to it, just like the copper model has. Here is the manual's description:
"The Electrocatalytic Oxidation is an advanced oxidation process. When direct current is applied to the electrocatalytic electrodes, water will be discharged to generate "hydroxyl radicals." The hydroxyl radical is a powerful oxidant which oxidizes organic contaminants and destroys bacteria and algae. Hydroxyl radicals in combination with free available chlorine provide the strongest and safest pool water sanitation."
Sounds like it's producing some kind of oxidizer, which I thought chlorine did anyway. Are there any downsides to this like copper and ozone have? If I get this model, should I use this fancy new E.C.O or should I unplug the electrode like I did with the copper? Or should I just fork over an extra $15 bucks for the copper model? Any thoughts?
"The Electrocatalytic Oxidation is an advanced oxidation process. When direct current is applied to the electrocatalytic electrodes, water will be discharged to generate "hydroxyl radicals." The hydroxyl radical is a powerful oxidant which oxidizes organic contaminants and destroys bacteria and algae. Hydroxyl radicals in combination with free available chlorine provide the strongest and safest pool water sanitation."
Sounds like it's producing some kind of oxidizer, which I thought chlorine did anyway. Are there any downsides to this like copper and ozone have? If I get this model, should I use this fancy new E.C.O or should I unplug the electrode like I did with the copper? Or should I just fork over an extra $15 bucks for the copper model? Any thoughts?