Converting from Chlorine to SWG

Jump to latest Follow Reply
K

kichi

0
Sep 2, 2013
48
Pool Size
1
SWG Type
Pentair Intellichlor IC-60
Hi All,

Looking for some advice from SWG experts here. I am in the San Francisco Bay Area and have a 22K gallon gunite pool that I am planning to convert to SWG. I am looking for something that prevents algae growth without requiring me to add chlorine every day (I currently add pool chlorine over the weekends but sometimes have algae if I end up traveling and missing a weekend). Most of my equipment is Pentair including their automation system, so am leaning towards IC40 or IC60 (sounds like I should be getting a SWG 2-3X the pool size). So my questions are:

  1. Is IC40 enough or should I spring for an IC60. It sounds like there is very little downside of upsizing, but most installers have been guiding me to IC40 (not sure why)
  2. Some installers suggested I wait until spring to install one since it does not work in the winters. I thought the water had to get down to 55 degrees before it stopped working. My pool water does not get that cold until peak winters, since it is always covered with a solar blanket. Should I wait, or go ahead right now?
  3. I have a gas heater for an attached spa, and am planning to install the SWG after the heater with a check valve so that the water does not flow back. Is that the right place to install it?
  4. Any recommendations on good installers in the bay area would be appreciated

Thanks
 
1) the IC60 has 50% more life for about 20% more cost. It's the way to go with long/hot seasons. You're basically buying an IC40 and also an IC20 at 80% off.

2) timing doesn't matter, although the warranty period starts at install time. So there is that to consider if you won't be using it alot now, or at all soon.

3) no check valve is needed per Pentairs install guide. For years CVs were in fact needed for tab feeders leaching acid with backfkow. The SWG has no such concern. At the start CVs got misapplied to SWGs as the industry does, and some installers are stuck in the old days, even now that the manufacturers agree the SWG doesn't need a CV. If you have a heater bypass, you have one already and it won't hurt.

4) hang tight for thoughts.
 
So your average FC loss per day is minimal. I would suggest getting the IC40. It will cover those days when you take the cover off as it is extra warm.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Thread Status
Hello , This thread has been inactive for over 60 days. New postings here are unlikely to be seen or responded to by other members. For better visibility, consider Starting A New Thread.
Top Bottom
Back
Jump to latest Follow Reply