Intex SWG code 91 after cleaning

[mattm58]

Ok, I'm sure this has been answered before. I've read through the forums on this code quite a bit and nothing has worked yet...

I have model 8111 SWG with the 16' x 4' pool. The setup is starting it's 3rd year now.

After dumping salt in it several times it was still reading low salt. Off to the store to buy some test strips. Salt showed almost 5000ppm, so as I suspected, it had way too much salt, but still reading low salt. I disassembled the filter, capped the one end of the clear tube by the copper and filled it with white vinegar as I had seen on many posts here. Let it sit for 3+ hours, the plates looked clean, so I dumped the vinegar, rinsed out with the hose, and reassembled. Still reads low salt. Disassembled again and let soak in vinegar for about 18 hours. Still reads code 91.

As already mentioned, salt shows about 5000ppm, here are the rest of the readings:

Total Hardness: 0
Free Chlorine: 0
PH: 6.8
Total Alk: 40
CYA: 0

Please help! Am I getting a low salt error due to the other readings being off? Is my SWG dead?

Thanks!
Matt

 

[Bama Rambler]

I'd have to say that the cell is dead. Since it's 3 years old I'd say it's at the end of it's life.

While you're deciding on a replacement, it'd be a good idea to read about the ABC's of pool chemistry in Pool School.

 

[Azgirl71]

Welcome to TFP! Your cell could be going if it is on its 3rd year. You also want to drain some water and replace it to bring the salt level down to recommended levels. It may correct itself after salt levels are lowered.

 

[jeffchap]

I have to replace my cell every 2-3 years. The same thing happens, 91 with plenty of salt. You can get a replacement on the Intex website for $68 plus shipping. Although you can get the entire unit on sale right now at Wal Mart for $99.

Walmart: Intex Krystal Clear Saltwater System 7,000 Gallon

 

[mattm58]

Since I've got the combo pump/filter/SWG, if I replace it what would you guys recommend? I'm thinking if I'm going to drop a hundred bucks or so I might go ahead and upgrade to a sand filter too so I don't have to hassle with cleaning the filter cartridge weekly. Possibly something like this:

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Intex-265...Sand-Filter-Pump-Set-28681EG-56681EG/39130771

-Matt

 

[Bama Rambler]

That would be a good unit for your pool. You'll like the sand filter a lot better than the cartridge you're now using.

 

[Scuba_Steve]

I would recommend against that one. As you are now seeing, you have to replace the entire unit once one component goes bad. What if part goes bad sooner? It is an Intex after all. I would get the 2800 or 3000 gph sand filter and the SWG I have in my sig. The ECO models do not have copper in them anymore, so that is a major advantage in my books!

 

[jeffchap]

Agreed, get the standalone SWG and a separate pump/sand filter.

 

[mattm58]

Thanks for the help all. I've got a new SWG coming, and hopefully will survive this season with my existing filter/pump and pick up a nice sand filter/pump when they go on clearance at the end of the season.

 

[jeffchap]

Wal Mart has one now for $130. I wouldn't expect to see them much less than that: Walmart: Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump



This one is 2150 gph. I have the 1600 gph on my 16x48 pool, and it does fine. This one should be even better.

 

[mattm58]

Thanks Jeff. Picked one up yesterday at the local walmart and finished hooking it up in the dark last night. We'll see how the pool looks tonight when I get home.

 

[jeffchap]

Great! We love helping other people spend their money. But you'll never regret that purchase.