Re: Recommended equipment for new inground pool
My experience is limited to what was installed with our pool, our first and only pool we've ever had (installed in March 2004).
I definitely agree with oversizing the filter! We chose DE since DE is much cheaper than replacing cartridge filters and were told it would require fewer cleanings. Our DE filter hasn't been near the hassle waterbear suggested. At most I've had to backwash once in the middle of the season. Last year it went all season on one charge. If I do have to backwash and recharge, I put in one less pound of DE than a full charge calls for. When I close down the pool for the winter I break down the DE filter and clean the grids without any problems of DE getting like "cement". However, I have heard of this happening when people didn't clean the DE filter at closing and instead let it sit dry all winter then tried to clean it in the spring (don't do that!). At least in my case, my DE filter has been less work than what waterbear describes with the cartridge filters.
We also use an Aqua Rite SWCG, also oversized (rated for 40k gal). The first cell only lasted 4 seasons, but I believe that's because I was using it to "shock" the pool as well as raising the CL level. I learned after that to only use the SWCG to maintain CL level and use other sources of CL to shock or raise the CL level (starting last season I use bleach). The second cell so far has lasted 6 seasons. Hopefully it will carry me through this season as well. The main board had to be replaced a few years ago. Overall I like having the SWCG. There was a period of a week or so last season I had to manually chlorinate the pool cause the original pump died (Hayward Super Pump, single speed)....what a PIA (I guess the SWCG spoiled me...lol).
Originally we used a Hayward Viper (w/booster pump) pool cleaner. That cleaner was OK at best. Once replacement parts became harder to find I switched to a Polaris 280 (I've had it 2 seasons). It performs much better than the Viper ever did. Also, parts seem readily available and less expensive.
Equipment aside, the best thing you can do is follow the testing and maintenance recommendations here! Since finding this site my pool has been easier, cheaper, and less mysterious to maintain!
Hope something in my ramblings helps.
22'x40' Grecian Lazy L 20K gal IG vinyl pool; Aqua Rite SWCG T15 cell; Hayward Pro Grid 6020 DE filter; Hayward Superpump 1hp pump; 12 hrs; Taylor K-2006; city; PF:6
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