Testing for salt

[rjb1211]

For PA it's fine. Cells are rated for 24/7 production, as in, a 1X cell will produce what you need in the peak season if run 24/7. So a 2X will do the same in 12 hours, reducing pump runtime and saving energy. By running the cell half as much (or 1/3.
. etc) it lasts twice (3x... etc) as long.

Also look at the Circupool RJ60. It's a beast although not quite the beast they claim. Still though, at its worst it should match the Pentair for a few hundred dollars less.

Thanks.

 

[rjb1211]

Someone else already mentioned, if you are just curious about your salt level, take a sample to the pool store, just don't let them talk you into adding anything.

In my opinion the only reason not to convert to SWG is the up front cost, you are basically paying for all your chlorine for the next 5-7 years when you purchase the system, but then you are not dealing with the inflation rate of the chlorine.

One of the big advantages of having a SWG is that you are constantly adding chlorine so you ppm is stable. When you add liquid chlorine, you get a spike when you add and the levels start to drop till you add more (unless you have an automatic feed system) .

Either way you decide, keeping chlorine levels at the 7.5% — 10‰ of your CYA, is the key.

Since you are just down the road from me would you mind sharing who installed yours?

 

[wireform]

If you're a good DIY'er you might be able to do it yourself and save some cash.

 

[rjb1211]

If you're a good DIY'er you might be able to do it yourself and save some cash.

I am, but I need help with any electrical connections that go beyond basic. I installed my heater myself and had a friend (who is no longer available to help) do the wiring.

 

[wireform]

So you can mix and match by doing the install and having a professional do the electrical and you'll still be ahead.

 

[generessler]

Hasn't been mentioned: the swg also simplifies being away from home.

 

[Saturn94]

In my opinion, salt should be tracked by everyone.

Out of curiosity, what is the reason for this?

 

[JamesW]

Out of curiosity, what is the reason for this?

In my opinion, the better you understand the water chemistry, the better you can manage the chemistry.

 

[drsipe]

Since you are just down the road from me would you mind sharing who installed yours?

I did the install. Here are the controls. I built a little weather protection from scraps from a deck remodel. BTW, the electrical is very simple with a single speed pump.

The cell.

The dummy cell I put in for the winter.



My only mistake is installing the flow switch in the verticle down flow. I plan to replace the DE filter soon and at that time I will re-plumb and correct the flow switch.

 

[rjb1211]

The dummy cell I put in for the winter.
View attachment 525488

Is a dummy cell for the winter a standard requirement?

 

[Newdude]

Is a dummy cell for the winter a standard requirement?

Although the cell is capable of handling the winter (drained/empty), I see no reason to leave an electronic outside when it comes apart so easy, so I bring mine inside.

You can either use a dummy cell if you prefer, or use rubber winterizing plugs on both ends to seal them. I only have the return half of the outlet because I put my filter away also.






I then use a zip lock sandwich bag over the end and generously wrap it with duct tape because I forsee my dogs finding the plug which looks like a chew toy.

 

[rjb1211]

Although the cell is capable of handling the winter (drained/empty), I see no reason to leave an electronic outside when it comes apart so easy, so I bring mine inside.

You can either use a dummy cell if you prefer, or use rubber winterizing plugs on both ends to seal them. I only have the return half of the outlet because I put my filter away also.

View attachment 525591

View attachment 525592


I then use a zip lock sandwich bag over the end and generously wrap it with duct tape because I forsee my dogs finding the plug which looks like a chew toy.

Got it. Can the cell handle being pressurized to blow out the lines?

 

[wireform]

Those that leave the cell in place blow the lines with it in there.