Pentair IC 15 or 20? - correct CYA

[TLConnolly]

Hi! I'm new here and not having any major issues. In reading through the site, I found an article that said that if CYA is maintained between 60-70, it will prolong the life the SWG; however, the manual for my SWG says I should maintain at 30-50. Obviously, I want to extend the life of the SWG and I think I should probably follow the manual that came with the equipment. Would others agree? Or should I have a higher goal in the 60-70 range? FYI I have a 14x28 pool - about 14,000 gallons, vinyl liner, sand filter, Hayward Titanium Heat Master heat pump, if any of that matters.

 

[Texas Splash]

Welcome to TFP! The 30-50 CYA recommendation is a generic level pushed-out by many in the pool industry without regards to pool type, chlorination, etc. You can use a CYA of 30-50, but your SWG will be overwhelmed and work twice as hard to "try" and maintain a good FC level. Some manufactures, like Circupool for example, are starting to realize the elevated CYA level helps the SWG to product and retain FC more efficiently. Also be sure to refer to our FC/CYA Levels and the link below for more info.

Pool Care Basics Archives

Your one-stop shop for all things TFP to include: ABCs of Water Chemistry, Recommended Chemicals/Levels, Test Kits, Troubleshooting, and much more!

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Jimrahbe]

TL,

An IC20 is pretty small for a 14K pool. We always recommend a cell that is rated for 2 x the water volume of the pool.

Your location will allow it to work, but it will work better with a higher CYA.

Higher CYA will not hurt the cell at all, it will just keep the chlorine in the pool from burning off as quickly.

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[TLConnolly]

Thanks guys! Much appreciated! I'm so glad I found this site! As an aside, I'm at work and I MIGHT have the IC40 or 60 but I don't remember off the top of my head. Thanks again!

 

[TLConnolly]

Another question - I just looked and have used about 6000 hours on my IC15. When I replace it eventually, is it a big deal to go with a completely different system like Circupool? My research tells me that even if I go with the IC20 or 40, I will need to replace the power supply because the one I have with the IC15 isn't big enough for those models. Will I end up having to do a lot re-plumbing with something completely different?

 

[Jimrahbe]

TL,

You are correct. The IC15 has a completely different power supply than the IC20, 40, and 60.

I assume that you do not have a Pentair automation system. If true, then it does not matter which SWCG system you go with. If you go with anything else, you will need to do a little plumbing, but exactly what depends on your current plumbing layout.

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[TLConnolly]

Thanks Jim. Based on what I've learned, I guess I'm lucky in that I've been managing my pool so well with such a small SWG. Hopefully I get another year or two out of it.