Cost of switching to SWG

[melbogia]

Hello all,
I have a ~15,000 gallon pool (I don't know exactly because it's an odd shape). In any case, I got a quote for intellichlor 20,000 gallon SWG for $3100 (labor and parts). I wonder if I can do this myself and whether it would be worth it. I can certainly do a bit of pvc and electrical work myself (assuming it's not too involved)

 

[Texas Splash]

I wonder if I can do this myself and whether it would be worth it.

Yes & yes. And probably for a better, higher level SWG. Look for a SWG rated for at least 2X the size of your pool, so for one rated about 30K or more. Have you window shopped at Discount Salt Pools? They have a nice comparison chart. For example, I have an 18K pool and got the Circupool RJ-45+, but there are many others. When shopping, also pay attention to the warranty offered. Some of them are tricky based on who installed it. But yes, you CAN do it.

 

[Texas Splash]

One big tip ..... Update your signature. See mine as an example. That info will help with replies. Details such as pump make/model, automation, features, etc can drive the type of SWG you might choose.

 

[melbogia]

Thanks for the encouraging words! I'll add equipment info as soon as I have it

 

[melbogia]

One big tip ..... Update your signature. See mine as an example. That info will help with replies. Details such as pump make/model, automation, features, etc can drive the type of SWG you might choose.

I've added some vital information - I recently moved here so don't have a ton of information. Since I have the Pentair Intelliflo, would it make sense to stick with Pentair intellichlor SWG? Not sure if there are any benefits there with respect to any synergies between the two pieces.

My other big question is that the external timer is set to manual and I use the builtin timer on the intelliflo pump. Can I just wire the SWG (bypassing the timer) to continuous power and rely on its flow sensor to turn it on and off?

 

[Texas Splash]

Since I have the Pentair Intelliflo, would it make sense to stick with Pentair intellichlor SWG?

Certainly is an option for compatibility. The biggest negatives are generally cost and limited warranty, and that's IF installed by a certified tech. You aren't tied just to Pentair for the SWG, so be sure to compare makes/models and ask any questions about the product or installation. We'll help you through it.

 

[Jimrahbe]

Mel,

An IC20 is way too small for a 15K pool. We always recommend a cell that is at least 2 x the volume of your pool. A 15K pool needs an IC40.

If you have done any simple PVC and electrical work, you can easily do a self install.

to continuous power and rely on its flow sensor to turn it on and off?

Absolutely NOT. A SWCG requires two safety devices. The primary safety device is to remove the power to the cell when the pump is not running. The secondary safety device is the flow switch. It is like driving around with your air bags disconnected. Will that work? Yes it will, right up to the point of impact. Cells that have power and no water flow can explode. It does not happen often, but has been reported here many times over the years.

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[Texas Splash]

My other big question is that the external timer is set to manual and I use the builtin timer on the intelliflo pump. Can I just wire the SWG (bypassing the timer) to continuous power and rely on its flow sensor to turn it on and off?

That could prove dangerous because while in theory the flow sensor "should" kick it off when flow stops, it's not the best practice - only a fail safe. Best to have the SWG on it's own isolated power source (or automation relay) to ensure no power is applied when the pump is off.

 

[melbogia]

Absolutely NOT.

Ok, I'll keep that in mind. What are my options in terms of hooking up the SWG such that it can go on/off with the pump automatically (since I am using the onboard timer on the intelliflo pump)?

 

[Jimrahbe]

Mel,

The simplest thing to do is use the old timer to control just the SWCG.

The IntelliFlo should be getting constant AC power. Just set the old timer to run the SWCG inside the time that the pump is scheduled to run.

If the pump runs from 8 am until 8 pm then set the cell to get power from 9 am until 7 pm to give you some 'slop' in the timing.

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[Rancho Cost-a-Lotta]

I can certainly do a bit of pvc and electrical work myself (assuming it's not too involved)

If you can do that, we can help you get your SWG installed.

If you have an Intermatic timer, we can help you connect the pump to receive constant power. You can then use the timed circuit to control the SWG.

If you post photos of the equipment pad, we can assist in planning things out.

If you had a Pentair automation system, it would make sense to go with the IC40. Otherwise, look around for other systems rated at 40K gallons. I too went with the CircuPool RJ-45 a couple years ago. No complaints.

Best wishes!

 

[Jimrahbe]

Mel,

I use the IC40 because I have an Pentair Automation system, so it works best for me.

If I did not have an automation system, I would not buy the IC40. I'd go Hayward T-15 or a CircuPool SWCG.

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[melbogia]

Hi all,
Please see the pictures of my equipment. The thing circled in blue is unused (I have been putting liquid chlorine in directly in the pool), and this is the last thing in the water return to the pool. I figured I can get rid of this and put the SWG over here. Is that fine for a location?

On the timers box, the left is for he pump but set to manual because I am using the onboard timer on the intelliflo pump. The right timer is set to off. It's for the cleaner motor (black one in the picture). I use a cleaner robot so this timer and motor is unused. I guess I can use the right timer for the SWG? As suggested by @Jimrahbe that simplest thing would be to use a timer for SWG.

 

[Jimrahbe]

Mel,

What are the two brown clam-shell devices that are between the heater and the check valve?

I'd remove the tab feeder, check valve and maybe the clam-shell devices and add the SWCG there. You only need a check valve if you have a tab feeder, you do not need it with a SWCG.

Using the old cleaner timers should work just fine for controlling your SWCG.

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[Newdude]

What are the two brown clam-shell devices

Magnets ?

 

[melbogia]

Yea, magnets. Do those really work? I have no idea.

 

[melbogia]

I'd remove the tab feeder, check valve and maybe the clam-shell devices and add the SWCG there

Thank you. Off to shopping for a SWCG.

 

[Newdude]

Do those really work?

No. It's pool store magic # 2749. It doesn't remove calcium, condition / ionize the water, cure water arthritis or whatever else they sold it as.

It is, however, terrific at making one's wallet $150 lighter.

Magnetic water treatment - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

 

[Hal3]

Here's my install thread. If I can do it ...
Lots of help from these guys.
Get at least a 40k gallon SWCG. Bigger if you can.

SWG install - any layout suggestions?

Finally getting to SWG install. Blue Works BLSC40-B T. I am planning to remove the old tab dispenser and splice in somewhere. There is not enough room! So, I need to add more pipe. I also need room for the flow sensor. Considerations: 1. Mount vertical or horizontal? 2. Be mindful of keeping...

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[melbogia]

So I have been looking at discountsaltpools.com. I tried the wizard where it asks for pool size and locations and these systems (among others) come up. I am a bit lost on what I should be looking for. Just looking at one brand, the wizard recommended 3 options

circupool sj-45 - $1059
circupool universal40 - $1259
circupool rj-30 - $1359
circupool rj-45 - $1459

Is there a specific property or feature that I should prioritize over others? Maybe lifespan? Is the installation difficulty pretty much the same among all of them?