SWCG (Chlorine Generator) Rule of Thumb for sizing of unit

[mnittler]

Is there a rule of Thumb or range for sizing a SWCG? Can the SWCG be too big (Not to exceed)?
Let's say SWCG Pool gallon rating / pool size in gallons = x.x
Where acceptable range is x.x to x.x?

[kelemvor]

Generally, the bigger the better. I have a 12k gallon pool with a cell rated for 40k gallons. A larger cell means you can turn down the "output" which is actually more of a timer type mechanism. The end result is you have the same chlorine output with less runtime (if you get a bigger cell vs getting a smaller one). It saves electricity (although swcg don't use a lot anyway) and more importantly will make your cell last longer before it has to be replaced. As you may or may not have noticed, they're fairly expensive and they wear out over time.

I wouldn't get a huge commercial pool sized unit...


This is covered in the SWCG F.A.Q. page here: http://www.poolsolutions.com/gd/swim...ators-faq.html It's definitely worth the time to read it if you haven't already.

[mnittler]

The installer is proposing a IC40 so 40,000 gallon. My pool is 18,000 so that would be a ratio of 2.22. An IC60 would be a ratio of 3.33. I calculated kelemvor has a ratio of 3.33 so I guess that is not too big?

[PoolDoc]

Don't do it! Get an IC-60.

SWCG cost does not go up in proportion to capacity; but SWCG life is directly proportional to on time. The larger unit will last longer.

By the way, if you get an AutoPilot or Hayward Goldline unit, I believe you can turn down feed rates much more. With the IC series you only have a 5 step adjustment (20-40-60-80-100%).

[JimK]

......By the way, if you get an AutoPilot or Hayward Goldline unit, I believe you can turn down feed rates much more. With the IC series you only have a 5 step adjustment (20-40-60-80-100%).

Good point. My Aquarite (Goldline) can be adjusted from 0% to 100% in 1% increments. Over the years I've found I tend to adjust it in 5% increments as needed. The 5 step adjustments you mentioned for the IC series would not work for me.