No Chlorine, but everything (to me) checks out

[mattrufus]

So no chlorine generation. Pool Pilot. We've added lots of chlorine at start up to clear things out. Water is not perfect, but very clear. Pool store only recommended us shocking it, which we have a couple times already this season. I've navigated numerous cell issues in the past, but can't figure this one out. What I've checked.

1. Salt level is good. 3300.
2. Water temp is 68.
3. Water returns in pool are showing good flow. Can it be flowing, but not over the cell? is this likely? I unscrewed the dummy a bit and turned on the pump to ensure there was some pressure behind it, and there was. Could it be coming from the wrong direction?
4. Put dummy cell on and tested cell, produced significant bubbles/ gas-smoke. (This is what is really messing with me)
5. Cell looks very clean. I can give it an acid bath, but didn't see the point until I can figure out why I'm not getting any chlorine.
6. Reading 21V 6.5A.
7. Had on boost for 24 hours.

Please help.

My cell is on a loop. Kinda looks like a rectangle that goes up long ways. My only option left in my exhausted mind, is that this section is clogged and water is not coming up and over the cell. Maybe it's just traveling below this area. Why I doubt this, is that the pressure is good. With transparency, I'm not sure why this bypass section exists. Your pointers are appreciated!!!

 

[JJ_Tex]

Let’s start with the basics. Post your most recent test results, ideally from your test kit and not a pool store.

My initial guess would be that you have algae that is using up the chlorine.

 

[Jimrahbe]

Rufus,

Keep in mind that a salt cell can not make more chlorine than algae can eat.

Sounds to me like you have algae and that your cell is working just fine.

I suggest that you perform an Overnight Chlorine Loss test.

Overnight Chlorine Loss Test

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[mattrufus]

Thanks for the input. We are planning to do the overnight chlorine loss test. Never done it before.

PH 7.5
TA 85
Cal 125
Salt 3300
FC 0
TC 0
CYA 15

Today, I plan to raise calcium and CYA. I've hesitated on CYA in case we have to resort to using tabs. We will brush and shock this evening.

 

[Jimrahbe]

Rufus,

Your FC is zero, so it is not a leap to think that you have algae.

I would not increase your CYA above 30 ppm, until you know if you passed the OCLT or not.

If you have any visible signs of algae, you should just skip the OCLT and go right into doing a SLAM..



Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[JJ_Tex]

FC should be your main concern. Every second you are below 2 you are at risk for more algae growth. I would get it into the target range (3-5) ASAP.

Note that 1 gallon of 10% liquid chlorine will add 4 FC to your pool. Walmart here has the best prices, and I would assume the same would be true in their home state.

 

[mattrufus]

Showing a little chlorine today. Hoping you guys are correct. Maybe the cell is starting to win the fight against algae.

 

[Newdude]

Maybe the cell is starting to win the fight against algae.

You will not win the fight with a SWG. At best you will keep it at bay where it will wait for the warmer weather and it will start growing exponentially.

SLAM Process is how you get rid of it. The earlier in the season, the better.

 

[ajw22]

Based on the volts and amps your cell is generating chlorine.

AutoPilot SWG - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

Please note:

• Warmer water and higher salt will decrease voltage.
• Colder water, lower salt, scaled, or depleted cell will increase voltage.
• It is better to run on a lower power level and higher output percentage, than a higher power level and lower output percentage.