Looking for Advice - Possible SWG Convert

[SteveK2]

Hi All,
I am considering the installation of a SWG this spring and would like to get some input on my decision.

It is a given that installing a SWG will be more convenient than adding chlorine to the pool on a regular (daily) basis. So what I am interested in knowing, specifically, is if using an SWG will require longer run times for my pool pump in order to generate enough chlorine for sanitization.

Pool specifics: 20x40 I/G vinyl liner @approximately 30,000 gallons. Over the last 2 summers, I have run my pump/filter for 8 hours per day in 2 four-hour shifts. This and proper chlorine levels has kept the pool sparkling clear. I have usually shocked the pool right after parties or weekly.

As a former Baquacil user who converted 3 seasons ago, I really enjoy the cost savings and cleanliness of the chlorine pool. The chemical maintenance is not really a chore for me since I am usually home anyway. I would appreciate the convenience of a SWG, but I do not want to see my electrical bill skyrocket due to long run times.

Right now, this is the last factor in my decision to go SWG or not.

I'd appreciate hearing any pros or cons on pump run times from SWG users.

TIA,
SteveK

[nater]

Hey SteveK2,

To directly answer your question, I run my pool 8-10 hours per day in summer (4 hours at night, and 4-6 hours during the day). If you find that your Cl output is not keeping up with demand, you can increase the output % to compensate and keep the pump run time the same. (at least on the Autopilot)

Depending on the system you purchase, I'd oversize it. My pool is around 20,000 and I went with the 60 series cell (check ebay). I can maintain 3-6 ppm FC at an output 15-30%, which should lead to longer cell life. I still use bleach if I need to shock (dead animal/big party/small kids) instead of using the "boost" mode on the SWC.

I'd recomend you read this thread a few times to get a better understanding of the ins/outs of SWC's.
http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showthread.php?t=1226

Here's another in-depth discussion on SWC pools and rising pH. Bottom line is that running lower TA (60-80) in a vinyl pool seems to decreases the pH rise over time. I used much less acid once I used Chem Geeks suggested targets for pH and TA.
http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showthread.php?t=5379

For winter time operation, you may still need some occasional bleach. I've used 6 gallons so far this winter (Nov-Feb) as the water temp is too cold for the SWC to work, but just warm enough to grow the green stuff. (I keep it open year round.)

Since installing my SWC (and finding this forum ) I've only had one "issue" in two years with cloudy water, mostly due to lots of rain and low output on the SWC. A couple gallons of bleach and 8 hours later, problem solved. Much better than the first summer I spent being Pool Stored, spending hundreds of $, and swimming in a green pool. I absolutely love my SWC!!!

[Davenj]

Great response nater. I run my setup a little different. 18x36 vinyl with 2 speed pump. Filter run time is 11 hrs., on low speed I am probably moving about 35 gal/min. I believe on high its not economical or effecient for the SWC. Autopilot also, was well worth the investment.
By the way haven't tried Chem Geeks reccomendations. Have to read some more, I am also running a heater.

[CarlD]

I keep toying with the idea of an SWG because it SO cool to re-gen chlorine, but I just can't get past the cost/benefit analysis. The simplest ones run about $1000--and that's at a minimum 10 seasons' worth of bleach. Plus they DO require weekly maintenance and monitoring. I usually add between a 1/2 gallon and a gallon every other day. If we go away, and the pool isn't being used (I cover it) I simply have whoever is watching the house add the 1/2 gallon every other day and ALWAYS come back to a perfect pool.

Since I try to follow my own motto (see below) I just cannot see enough benefit to justify it.

[CanuckPool]

Hey CarlD, I think the best times to get an SWG is if you are

A) buying a house with a pool and you are new to pool maintenece
B) Getting a new pool
C) a convert from baq
D) if you like the idea of having one less thing (bleach) to buy from the store and maintain.

I don't think you can necessarily look at it as a cost saving item... its more of a "less maintenece" thing. If you are on top of your pool every week.. and enjoy doing so, there should be no reason to change.

[JoshU]

In addition to the benefits mentioned above you also get superior water quality. It eliminates "chlorine skin". When you leave a chlorine pool your skins feels very dry. Whereas when you leave a salt pool your skin will feel rejuvenated.

If you've spent $30,000 or more on building a pool then why wouldn't you want the best and most comfortable water.

Josh