Selecting a Suitable Chlorinator for Your Pool

Factors to consider when selecting a salt chlorinator:

1. SIZE OF THE POOL OR SPA - larger pools need larger chlorinators   
2. BATHING LOAD - heavy loads consume more chlorine. 
3. SIZE OF FILTRATION SYSTEM - poor water flow will require longer running time
4. SIZE OF SALTWATER CHLORINATOR - larger unit means fewer problems. It is best to oversize than undersize your equipment for your pool.
5. SUMMER WATER TEMPERATURE - high temperature and strong sunlight will cause rapid chlorine loss.

Salt Levels

The required salt content for your pool will depend on the type on chlorinator. Most units require a salt solution of between 0.3% to 0.7% (3000ppm to 7000ppm) to chlorinate your pool effectively. These levels are between one fifth to one tenth of sea water salt. Please check manufactures recommendations to insure adequate chlorine production.

Running Times

These times will vary depending on issues such as pool size, temperature and pool usage. The following guide is based on an average pool size of 60 000 litres.
 
 8 hours during summer
 6 hours during autumn and spring
 4 hours during winter

The Importance of Filtration

Swimming pool water must be filtered to remove suspended particles and provide clear water. Insufficient filtration will have a negative effect on the chlorination process. Clear water is desirable not only for aesthetic pleasure, but for hygiene and safety. Water filtration quality depends on the size of the filter media. The finer the media, the higher the purity of water obtained. There are three types of filtration systems available.

Diatomaceous Earth

uses finely crushed coral-like rock as the media. Filter internals consist of polyester covering or pads that stretch over or clip into a plastic manifold or frame. It is critical that the DE media is replenished after backwash and the pads are cleaned regularly. Torn pads or broken manifolds must be replaced immediately in order to maintain clear filtered water. DE filters have superior filtration qualities. They can remove particles down to approximately 5 microns.

Cartridge Filters

The filtering medium is a concertina shaped, polyester cartridge. Unlike sand or DE filters; there is no provision for backwashing. When dirty or clogged, the cartridge must be removed from the housing and hosed off. Cartridges should occasionally be soaked in an acid solution and be replaced every 3-5 years. Cartridge filters can remove particles down to approximately 8-10 microns in size.

Sand Filters

The most commonly used filter on both domestic and commercial pools, sand filters have just one grade of sand - either 16:30 or the finer grade of 18:30 and the sand bed is 200-310 mm deep, depending on the tank size. The most important benefit of this particular filtration system is simplicity. When the sand bed is clogged with dirt, the pressure will register on a gauge which indicates the need to backwash. The dirty water is discharged into a sewer gully (waste line) or it can be used to water lawns or shrubs. The sand filter will remove particles down to about 15 microns in size. Depending on factors such as pool usage and size etc, the sand in the filter will normally only need changing approximately every 5 years.