Looking for saltwater generator recommendations for a 27' AG

Hi folks,

Newbie here - thanks for all the interesting posts and useful advice. I've been following the BBB method for a couple years now (27', round AG, ~17,000g) and have seen a significant improvement in water quality and decrease in costs as compared with the Baquacil method that I started out with. I've been looking into a salt water generator, as a way to cut down on the voluminous bottles of bleach needed to keep the pool clear. BTW, stabilizer is at around 45ppm. The pool store quoted $3k to install a salt water system. I'm considering installing myself and would like to hear of any recommendations from those who have had success with these systems. There is an Intex model on Amazon with positive reviews (Intex 54601EG Krystal Clear Saltwater System), but I think this is made for an Intex pool; or one with less capacity than my 17,000g pool. The unit is less than $200 which seems too good to be true - although I can't seem to get detailed specifications for this unit so it is difficult to know for sure.

In any case, I'd love to hear of any recommendations. Thanks in advance!

DDHST - Central NJ

Welcome to the Pool Forum!

Are you aware that having an SWCG usually voids the warranty on AG pools?

yes, that won't be a problem. Pool is already around 10 years old. Still in good condition though...

Ok. I'll let one of our SWCG people give you some recommendations. Good luck!

Hi DD, There are a couple of Stickies at the top of the Salt Water Section that will help you to answer the question of which unit is recommended. There are a number of different options and manufacturers with SWCG's, you are looking for output of chlorine per day to do an honest comparison. $3K sounds a pretty high to me, what brand of SWCG did the pool store include for that price? The one piece of advice I will give you is to make sure you go with a unit that is rated for a pool 2 -3 times larger than your pool. You would need to price out a unit that is rated for 34,000 - 50,000 gallons. Once you read the stickies, you will have a better understanding of run time, cell life and efficiency. The $200 unit will in all probability be a waste of money.