SWG startup

We have just completed the wait time specified by pebble tec (4 Weeks) and as owner builders we don't have much customer service available to us. We are also still waiting patiently for our test kit. We have been able to maintain chlorine and Ph with tablets in a float and slowly decreasing acid additions. Should I wait for the kit to test my own water or use the local pool supply? What do I need test before we add the salt? I have estimated that we have between 18,000 and 20,000 gallons between the pool and spa. Any help/direction would be greatly appreciated.

When I started my SWG, I did not have a test kit. I went by the unit display for salt. CYA I did use a test kit.

Given that you have fresh water in the pool, it probably does not have much salt to begin with. What is the salt operating range for your SWG?

Most SWGs have dosing charts in the manual to get to the correct salt and CYA levels. Follow those but target the low end of each to start with so you don't overshoot.

For 2800 ppm, you will need about 430 lbs of salt for 18000 gallons. After a few days you can always add more if needed. The unit should tell you if you need more but you can always run it low until your test kit comes.

Also, you will need CYA. Target 60 ppm initially which is about 9 lbs. Again, you can always add more if needed.

Also be sure to check your SWG owner's manual for the particulars of the salt reading displayed on your control panel. There probably is an initial default salt level reading that comes up no matter how much salt you have in your pool.

For my Aquarite, the manual said I would only get a true salt reading after the unit had been on and the pump running for 24 hours.

Thanks for the info, sure hope that I get my Ben's kit soon, it will make this whole thing alot easier. I will keep you all posted and I'm sure there will be many more questions.