Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What upgrade pays for itself the fastest
A: Replacing a single speed pump with a two speed pump will pay for itself in 1-2 years. It can easily save $700 per year. Five years after installing a two speed pump you will have an extra $3500 ($700 x 5yrs) in your bank account.

Q: Is a salt pool chlorine free?
A: No. A backyard Salt Chlorine Generator makes chlorine the same way that the chlorine manufacturers do. They both use electrolysis to convert salt water (Sodium Chloride & water) into Chlorine gas, Sodium Hydroxide (a base), and Hydrogen gas: NaCl + H₂O => Cl₂ + NaOH + H₂. You will notice that one of the byproducts of this reaction is Sodium Hydroxide. This is base -- a chemical that will raise you pH. It is the reason that salt pools need frequent additions of acid. Failure to add acid will result in calcium deposits on your tile line and in your heater and a 50% reduction in the active strength of your chlorine.

Q: I have a salt system and constantly need to add acid. Is there an automated solution?
A: There are a couple of ways to approach this problem. One is to simply deal with the symptom and use an complicated automated system that will automatically add acid as needed. I prefer, however, a solution that addresses the problem. The more your chlorinator runs, the more acid you will need and the shorter the cell life of the chlorine generator. Adding an ozonator will allow you to cut down the run time of your chlorine generator significantly. With the chlorinator running less, your pH will stay more stable and your chlorine will stay more active. Additionally, unlike pH controlers that require calibration, sensor cleaning, and acid mixing, an ozonator is nearly maintenance free.

Q: Chlorine dries my skin, is there an alternative?
A: While there are many alternative sanitizers, an easy cost effective solution is to use an ozonator. An ozonator used in conjunction with a two speed pump can cut your chlorine use by 65%. Less chlorine costs less and is better on swimmers.

Q: Is a Variable Speed IntelliFlo better than a two-speed?
A: It depends. There is really no simple answer. Based on its permanent magnet technology an IntelliFlo will be about 30% more efficient on low speed than a standard two-speed pump. Although this may save money in the long run, it is only better if you are comfortable with the complexity it will add to your system. The IntelliFlo is smart enough to shut off if it runs dry. This can be a good thing, but this feature will also trigger alarms when you are trying to prime the pump. If you are a customer who likes and understands technology, then this extra complexity and efficiency might be for you. If you subscribe to the "Keep it Simple" philosophy, then two-speed might be the better way to go. Remember, no matter how good the technology, it will only save you money if it is set up right and used properly. This is why it is important to work with a good contractor.

Frequently Asked Questions

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