Replacing old SWG

[joepa300]

I currently have an old "unichlor" SWG which I want to replace with a new system. Although I havent decided on which brand to install as yet, I did look at the aquarite and pentair models. Since I have a power unit already from the unichlor, I was wondering if I can use this power unit or at least simply plug in the new power unit. From the pentair manual, the electrical looks like the same type of plug and the system is already configured to run with my pump. Anyone familiar with the unichlor? Thanks.

[Poolsean]

Not interchangable. Unichlor is a off line brine chlorine generator. What it doesn't have that makes it incompatible are power control, diagnostic messaging, proper electrical protection for an inline cell, and there may be some others, especially with the electronics.

That's not to say you can't "TRY" it, but I would be very careful with doing this. The off line brine tank and it's components are not in contact with the pool water. It's generating chlorine gas, that is sucked into your pool return line.
Now, placing an inline cell that will be energized? I would caution on the side of error, make that a potentially deadly shocking error, and just plain avoid the situation.

If you haven't researched AutoPilot.com, it may be worth looking into for additional features and benefits that the others do not offer.

Hope this helps,

[joepa300]

Sean,

Thanks for the reply. Just to be clear, are you saying that I can NOT plug in a new power unit either with the existing plug coming from my junction box?

[Poolsean]

You can most likely use the same plug from your time clock to the new power unit. You just want to make sure of the voltage as most newer systems all come from the factory at 220 volts. However, they are capable of being switched to 110 volts (if that's what you currently have).

Now, for me to understand clearly, the junction box that you currently have the Unichlor plugged into, is this a separate 110 volt or 220 volt junction box? And is it tied into the same circuit as the circulation pump?
In other words, when the pump shuts off, does your Unichlorine turn off also?
Or is it constantly powered up?

If it is tied into the pump circuit, then yes, you just need to verify the voltage of this junction box.
If not, then I would recommend rewiring the new power unit to the same terminals that your circulation pump is wired.

[joepa300]

Yes, it is 110V controlled by the pump timer. Thats great if I can just plug thew new unit in. DIY. Thanks again Sean. I will have a look at the autopilot.

[Poolsean]

Make sure go convert the power unit to operate on 110 volts to match the power provided.

Thanks for giving AutoPilot a glance.