Plumbing Requirements for a Typical Saltwater Swimming Pool
Salt chlorination systems for residential pools are growing in popularity due to the benefit of not needing to regularly add other forms of sanitizers, such as chlorine tablets, granules or liquids. Most pool plumbing systems are sufficiently capable of handling the installation of a saltwater chlorine generator. Does this Spark an idea?
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Typical Plumbing
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Inground pools are usually built with 2-inch PVC pipe for suction (from pool to filter) and return (filter to pool) lines. Chlorine generators usually have the same size inlet/outlet as the existing line, and are plumbed inline on the return side of the filter. A section of PVC pipe the same length as the generator is cut out and fittings (unions) are installed. This allows for easy removal, cleaning and replacement of the unit.
Filter Types/Sizes
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Filter types and sizes, whether sand, DE or cartridge, do not have any bearing on whether a salt generator can or can't be installed.
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Pump Size
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Most residential filter pumps/motors are rated at between 3/4 and 1½ HP for a typical 10,000- to 20,000-gallon residential pool. The inline salt cell will not hinder flow adversely unless it needs to be cleaned.
Salt Generator Capacity
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The chlorine-generating capacity of salt cells needs to be selected based on pool-water capacity. Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for the appropriate generator.
Installation/Maintenance
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Most installations, while moderately complex, can be accomplished by someone with reasonable skills and basic tools. Routine cleaning of the salt cell is necessary and periodic testing of chlorine levels are needed to maintain proper levels of power to the salt cell.
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