Which SaltWater Chlorinator

[isamisis]

I've been reviewing SWG for a couple of months. I thought I had it narrowed down to a Zodiac DuoClear and an Autopilot. I reviewed most of the ones already discussed here and elsewhere in the forum. I read all the install/user manuals to try and make an intelligent decision. I live in Phx, AZ and my pool remodel was finished in June so getting the best SWG that works the way I want became very important. I couldn't find anything about the success or failures of the Zodiac and I'm not an optimistic gambler so I decided to go with the Autopilot after reading through these great posts. Thank you everyone for helping me fill in the blanks.

[mabrolat]

About to start a new IG pool and was planning to go with Autopilot Digital...then PB suggested I look at "Total Control." Is it worth it? What do I get for the extra grand?

[cwstnsko]

If I could upgrade my Autopilot Digital to a Total Control for only $1000, I'd do it in a heartbeat. 1) you get a system that turns itself on and off by actually measuring the ORP of the water rather than just running XX% of the time. 2) you get pH monitored continuously and acid added automatically to maintain the proper pH.

I've considered the upgrade myself, but I've been told it's closer to $2500 installed. I don't believe my Pool-Pilot Digital is compatible with the Total Control Controller, and I don't think an upgrade plan is in effect yet.

[skystone]

Has anyone had any experience with ChlorEase Saltwater Chlorinator? We need a budget priced generator, and this certainly fills the bill for us; found it for $179.75, better than the original $269.

Comments?

Thanks, ST

[Aggie 88]

Uneducated question. If you convert to a Aquarite or Pool Pilot, can you still use your indoor controller for Spa, Waterfall, cleaner, etc?

[Poolsean]

Aggie,

Yes. The Salt Chlorine Generator would connect to your Electronic Control System on the same relay that operates your filter pump. Whenever the pump comes on, the salt system will generate chlorine.

[skystone]

So how complicated is it to install an chlorine generator? Can we DIY or do we need help? We can install ceiling fans and do basic wiring.

[Poolsean]

Electrical:
With some systems, you can select to operate your main filter from the salt system, or from your normal time clock. The electrical would depend on this.
To control your pump via salt system: you MUST be connected to LINE power. Meaning that your salt system will get power directly from the circuit breaker, and replace your external time clock. The electrical should match the voltage of your pump.
To continue controlling your pump via external time clock, you must be connected to LOAD power. Meaning it should be wired to the same location that your filter pump is. When the pump turns on, the salt system is on also.
(Pool Pilot can be wired in either configuration)

Plumbing:
Cells vary in length from about 9" to 18", depending on the manufacturer and cell design. You will need to cut out this section of pipe on your return line. Some systems are directly in line (Pool Pilot provides a manifold assembly, approx 12"),and some require 90 degree elbows up to the cell and the cell must be horizontal.
The cell placement should be after all your other equipment.
If you have a pool/spa combo, the cell must be in the pool return line.

If you can install a ceiling fan, you can do this. The only tricky part is if you have limited space in your plumbing or very old, brittle pipes to fit the cell in.

If you want to, you can send photos of your equipment area, particularly after the pump and filter (and heater?), and I can suggest locations to install the cell.

Hope this helps.

[rrwcm]

So how complicated is it to install an chlorine generator? Can we DIY or do we need help? We can install ceiling fans and do basic wiring.

See my earlier post:
http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showpos...4&postcount=26
You should be able to do it yourself. Take time to carefully plan where you will locate the control panel as I described. I have been very satisfied with my Autopilot system.

[MikeO]

WHEW....finally back! Hello friends.
I think the replies are there...though sadly, not enough AutoPilot users. Aquarite makes a good system. It's really all a matter of what you are looking for. Sure AutoPilot offers a bit more bells and whistles, but all in all, the views of this forum are fairly neutral for both systems.

This new format sure is weird and will take some getting use to. But sure am glad it's back in operation.

Poolsean,
I have a Viking Fiberglass Pool 16X38 (16500) gallons with a cartridge filter. I have been debating over SWG for 3 years and I'm now ready to take the plunge (LOL excuse the bad pun) I am in sales like you and I would like you convince me why I should buy AutoPilot. I have a friend that sells the Goldline Controls product, and will give me good deal, but saw your responses to the clueless masses (like myself) on this post, would value your opinion. I live in a fairly tempurate region (Coastal SE North Carolina) and use the pool about 6-7 months (no heater) and AM TIRED OF CHLORINE & CHEMICALS. Any help will be appreciated. I am ready to do this soon. Thanks, Mike