Thinking about going to SWG

[iamnos]

Builder didn't recommend a SWG when we installed, I'm 99% sure it was because he wanted the revenue from pool chemicals (they use pucks and such). I've been using the TFP method since it was completed and loving it, and am now thinking about going to SWG. Our controller is a Hayward PL-P-4-CUL running firmware 4.45. From what I'm reading, I should be able to buy a T-Cell of appropriate size, hook it up, add some salt, and go.
This is the cell I'm thinking about: Hayward Salt Generator Cell Only 15,000 Gal | Pool Supplies Canada

A few questions:

Should I consider the 25,000 version?
The gas heater says its salt water ready, the sand filter should be fine, do I need to worry about the pump at all? Any other salt water gotchas for equipment?
I don't see a flow sensor anywhere, is this needed to install the SWG?
There's a zinc anode they offer for the skimmer for about $14 should I get it just to be cautious?
Any other considerations? I've read lots of threads on it and am mostly looking to increase the comfort of the water and reduce the amount of chlorine I'm having to manage in the pool.

Thanks folks.

 

[Brett S]

You will likely want the larger cell. The general rule of thumb is to get a cell that’s rated for at least twice the capacity of your pool. With a 12,000 gallon pool the 25,000 gallon cell would be a good fit.

With the 15,000 gallon cell you would likely need to run your pump close to 24 hours a day and with a single speed pump that could be very expensive. Using the higher capacity cell will allow you to get all the chlorine you need with a much shorter pump run time.

 

[ComputerGuyInNOLA]

Brett has good advice. I have a 13.5k gallon pool and I have the salt cell for a 40 k pool. Less run time and your cell will last longer. Plus, no more hauling chlorine!

 

[mguzzy]

Should I consider the 25,000 version?
The gas heater says its salt water ready, the sand filter should be fine, do I need to worry about the pump at all? Any other salt water gotchas for equipment?
I don't see a flow sensor anywhere, is this needed to install the SWG?
There's a zinc anode they offer for the skimmer for about $14 should I get it just to be cautious?
Any other considerations? I've read lots of threads on it and am mostly looking to increase the comfort of the water and reduce the amount of chlorine I'm having to manage in the pool.

You are going to want a cell rated to at least twice the size of of your pool. I would just go with a T-15. it will give you more elbow room for adjusting the cell output and it will last longer. Yes you need a flow switch. If you check the installation manual they have a PKit that includes the cell unions and flow switch. No need for the zinc anode. You will still have to manage the chlorine.. only with an SWG it being produced by the cell instead of jugs of Cl or tabs.

Hayward Aquarite SWG - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

Hayward ProLogic - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[iamnos]

Thanks folks, not long after posting I found in the installation manual for our controller that it does require the flow switch. I believe it won't activate the cell unless it gets the flow reading. And thanks so much for the Hayward specific links, those didn't come up in my searches!