Problems with Intex SWG

[smithsjackpot]

I purchased the Intex Sand Filter Pump with Saltwater System Combo (26679EG) April 2023 for my 18x52 hard sided above ground pool. This is the second system I have had and both have had the dreaded low salt code issue. The first one kept doing that so when looking at the replacement electrode for $10 less than a whole new system on Amazon, I went ahead and got the new system. Fast forward I am now 5 months out of the 1 year warranty and having the same issue…91 code low salt. Intex is refusing to replace and is out of stock for the electrode replacement…hmmm I wonder why? So I can purchase one from Amazon for $177. Is this just normal to have to replace these every year or so? Is there another option…can I get a different salt system to connect to my sand filter? I have cleaned the electrodes with vinegar. I’ve read that some have replaced the electrode and still have issues. My pool already turned green from no chlorine production and I’m having to throw shock in just to try and get the water back to clear. I don’t want to spend more money on parts/products that aren’t reliable or going to work. I need help!!!!!

 

[PoolStored]

Welcome to TFP!!!

Others can chime in on the cell.

To clear the pool of algae, use the SLAM process. Link-->SLAM Process

How are you testing? In order to SLAM, you need one of our recommended test kits. Link-->Test Kits Compared

If you have a test kit, post a full set of results.

 

[TinFoilHat]

I suspect that your water has become so out of balance that the SWG couldn't do enough for you to prevent algae. You'll need to get one of the recommended test kits and post up the water results from that just to begin the slam. You can add 5 ppm of liquid chlorine daily until you get the kit but keep the filter running to circulate the water. Stay out of any pool stores and just follow what is taught here in the Pool School on the left pane. Pay attention to the sections on Algae and Pool Care Basics.

 

[smithsjackpot]

Thank you for the replies about the water. I have read about testing and slam and all that and know what to do there. I’m more concerned with how to get my SWG working again and to keep working. I’m just not wanting to spend $180 on replacing the titanium electrode if that’s not going to solve the problem of the 91 high salt code error.

 

[dereksanders]

This may help.

No It is NOT the (Intex) SWG Cell! No, it is not a "broken" (Intex) SWG unit. It's just a little corrosion.

A "Low Salt" error causes Intex SWGs to shut down, and refuse to make chlorine. Mine gave me 3 such errors on successive nights. There are multiple videos purporting to "fix" the issue, by hot-wiring the metal-plate cell directly to the transformer, and bypassing the timer and all the...

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Pv2]

in addition to the article above, yes you probably need to replace the electrode fairly often, and yes you can put a different brand on. as to replacement intex parts - just keep checking and fiddling with their website, using search for the exact part number. eventually stuff comes back in stock - especially in the spring. but check every month or so, they often change the listings. it is frustrating, but can be done.

the fact that you are mentioning shock is worrisome. suggest getting some liquid chlorine for the rest of the season, as well as one of the recommended test kits and learn how to get a sparkling pool to be ready for a new SWG next year.