SWG and stainless filter

[Hammond]

I had a repairman in last week to work on installing a new heater. While talking to him, I mentioned that I was thinking of getting a salt cell. I use liquid chlorine today

He said that the salt water will ruin my stainless DE filter and I would need to replace it too

Is this right?

 

[JoyfulNoise]

It all depends on the quality of the stainless steel used. Most filters nowadays are constructed of fiber-reinforced polymers and have very few metallic components in them. If the grade of stainless steel used is a higher quality (316/316L stainless steel), then it will be fine. Lower grade steels can corrode from salt exposure.

Here’s the deal though - all chlorine pools are “salty” to some extent because all forms of chlorine and muriatic acid leave chloride ions behind. So your pool water may actually have a substantial amount of salt in it already. If you get a salt test kit, you can figure it out precisely.

SWGs are a great investment in my opinion. But check to make sure all of your pool equipment is compatible with salt. Ladders and rails tend to be the worst offenders when it comes to using cheap steel components.

 

[JamesW]

What filter do you have?

How old is it?

Does it have any rust at all?

Does a magnet stick to it?

 

[Hammond]

It's a Hayward 72sf stainless filter made for Leslie's. Not sure how old it is. Model DELE42058

i can't easily read the label, and had to reach around behind with my camera. When I did I noticed that the label says "approved for fresh or salt water"

 

[mknauss]

Most damage in 'saltwater' pools is from uncontrolled pH. If your filter says ok for saltwater, I would go ahead with a SWCG. Just remember you must test and maintain your pH often. At least a couple times per week once you understand your pool water chemistry.