That depends on what type of sanitation system you want to use in your above ground pool. Generally speaking, a chlorinator is unnecessary for an above ground pool since they can be easily treated with other sanitization methods such as chlorine tablets or granules.
Chlorinators are usually used in larger pools or commercial pools since they constantly produce a steady stream of chlorine into the water, allowing for more accurate and efficient chlorination. However, if your pool is especially large, or if you prefer to use a chlorinator for convenience, there are several types of above ground pool chlorinators available.
Depending on your pool setup, a floater chlorinator, an in-line chlorinator, or even a skimmer chlorinator may be the best option for your above ground pool.
What is the purpose of a chlorinator?
A chlorinator is a device which releases a controlled amount of chlorine into a water system (such as a pool, pond, fountain, or water supply) as a way to sanitize and purify the water. Chlorine is an effective disinfectant that kills microorganisms and inhibits the growth of harmful organisms, like bacteria, algae and sometimes viruses.
By adding chlorine to a water system, it keeps the water clean and safe to use, whether it is drinking water or swimming in a pool. Chlorinators help make sure the water is properly sanitized and the appropriate amount of chlorine is present in the water at all times.
This helps reduce the growth of bacteria, viruses, and algae and reduces the risk of contamination. Chlorinators come in a variety of types, including chemical feeders, automatic chlorinators, and solid chloride systems.
They are used in both residential and commercial settings.
How do you install an above ground pool chlorinator?
Installing an above ground pool chlorinator is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps.
1. Prepare the area around the pool: Make sure the area is free of any debris or obstacles and that the ground is leveled to allow unhindered access to the pool. If using a saltwater chlorinator, it is also beneficial to test the water for its total alkalinity levels.
2. Assemble the chlorine dispenser: Place the chlorine dispenser into the skimmer and attach the O-ring assembly to ensure a watertight seal.
3. Connect the power: Connect the power to the chlorinator and make sure that it is securely fastened.
4. Adjust the chlorine output: Turn the dial on the chlorinator to the desired chlorine output.
5. Set the timer: Set the timer on the chlorinator to the desired time interval.
6. Test the chlorine output: Use a test strip to test the chlorine levels in the pool to make sure that it is dispensing the right amount of chlorine.
7. Monitor the system: Regularly check the chlorinator and adjust the output or time interval if necessary.
By following these steps, you should quickly and easily be able to install your above ground pool chlorinator. Remember to use the appropriate safety precautions when working with electrical equipment, and be sure to read the instructions carefully to ensure proper installation.
Where does a chlorinator go?
A chlorinator typically goes in the plumbing system after the pump, but before the pool filter, to provide a continuous supply of chlorine to the pool’s water. It should be positioned at least 18 inches off the pool wall to ensure an even distribution of chlorine.
The specific location will depend on the chlorine delivery system of the pool. For example, with an inline system, the chlorinator should be mounted in an unimpeded flow, like on a vertical pipe or a bypass line.
Additionally, some chlorinators require a separate chemical feeder or combustor to keep up with the demands of the pool. Once installed, the chlorinator should then be connected to the pool’s electrical system and chlorine source, whether that be water-soluble chlorine tablets or liquid chlorine products.
How does an automatic pool chlorinator work?
An automatic pool chlorinator is a device that chlorinates water in swimming pools and other bodies of water. It works by adding a measured amount of chlorine to the water, either by time-release tablets or through liquid chlorine, on a regular basis to maintain a safe and desirable level of chlorine in the water.
This prevents the growth of algae and bacteria, and limits the spread of water-borne diseases. The amount of chlorine added to the water can be controlled depending on the size of the pool and the amount of exposure it receives.
Automatic pool chlorinators are easy to install and maintain and can often be programmed to adjust their output according to the amount of exposure the pool receives, or the water temperature or pH level.
What setting should my chlorinator be on?
The setting for your chlorinator should depend on the type of chlorinator you have and your pool’s size and use. Generally, it’s best to start with a lower setting and gradually increase it until you reach the desired chlorine levels in your pool.
For example, if you have an in-line chlorinator, you should start off with a setting between 1-3. The setting may also be referred to as a percentage or parts per million (ppm) of chlorine that is being added to the pool.
If you have a floater-style chlorinator, you can start off with a lower setting, typically between 1-2.
It’s important to check your pool’s chlorine levels regularly when adjusting the chlorinator to the desired setting. If you’re using an in-line chlorinator, you should check the chlorine levels once a week, or every few days if you have a lot of swimmers in the pool.
With a flow-style chlorinator, check the chlorine levels daily to ensure they are being regulated correctly.
Once you have the desired chlorine levels in your pool, you can adjust the chlorinator setting higher or lower to maintain the correct balance. When increasing the chlorinator setting, it’s important to only increase it by small increments and then wait 24-48 hours to measure the chlorine levels.
This will ensure that you don’t overly shock the pool. If you have any questions about the specific settings for your chlorinator, be sure to contact the manufacturer for more detailed instructions.
Why is my chlorinator not filling with water?
There are numerous possible reasons why your chlorinator is not filling with water. The most likely causes are related to a malfunction in the chlorinator’s functionality or to a blockage of the water to the chlorinator.
If your chlorinator has adjustable settings, check that the setting is set in the correct mode (on/off) and that the levels are set correctly. If the settings are correct, it could be that the chlorinator has been damaged from harsh weather or from buildup.
To check for buildup, remove the lid and inspect the basin for any obstruction or blockage.
If the chlorinator appears to be in working order, it is possible that the water is blocked from entering the system. Due to the chlorinator’s design, the water must flow from the pump or from a separate water source in order for it to function properly.
Thoroughly inspect the piping and connections to ensure that the water flow is not being blocked. Additionally, examine the valve, filter, and mechanical components to check for any signs of malfunction or damage.
It is also possible that the water pressure is not sufficient to power the chlorinator, causing it to not fill with water. To determine if this is the case, measure the water pressure and compare it to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
If the pressure is too low, you may be able to adjust it to the correct level, or you may need to contact a professional to fix the problem.
Finally, if all else fails, contact a professional to inspect and repair your chlorinator. They will be able to diagnose the issue and advise you on the best course of action to get your chlorinator back up and running.
Does a chlorinator have a motor?
Yes, a chlorinator typically has a motor, but the type of motor varies depending on the type of chlorinator being used. There are generally two types of chlorinators: pump-fed and pressure-fed.
A pump-fed chlorinator consists of a pump, chlorinator, filter and motor. This system is typically found in residential pool systems and requires a larger motor to power the system due to the circulation requirements.
Generally, this type of chlorinator uses a standard 3/4 horse power motor that runs on 115 or 230 volts of electricity.
In contrast, a pressure-fed chlorinator is smaller and typically used on more commercial size pool systems. This type of chlorinator is often called a “low flow” chlorinator. This type of chlorinator requires only a small motor to power the system due to the low circulation requirement.
Generally, this type of chlorinator uses a standard 115 or 230-volt motor that is usually 1/3 to 1/2HP in size.
Can you put liquid chlorine in an automatic chlorinator?
Yes, you can put liquid chlorine in an automatic chlorinator. Many automatic chlorinators are designed specifically for use with liquid chlorine, which is a more concentrated chlorine than regular chlorine tablets.
To use liquid chlorine, you must first fill the automatic chlorinators chamber with the liquid chlorine, then adjust the speed of the chemical feeder so it pumps out the correct amount of chlorine into the swimming pool water.
Keeping an eye on the water’s chemical balance is important when using an automatic chlorinator with liquid chlorine, as liquid chlorine is much more potent than other forms of chlorine. Additionally, you need to ensure the chlorinator is well maintained and regularly serviced to ensure it is functioning properly.
How long should I run my chlorinator?
The amount of time you should run your chlorinator depends on several factors including the size of your pool, the amount of bather load, and the frequency of rain. Generally, it is suggested to run your chlorinator for 8-12 hours/day during the summer season when your pool is in use.
If your pool is heavily used during the summer season, you may need to increase the run time of your chlorinator to maintain adequate chlorine levels. Additionally, you may need to adjust the run time of the chlorinator if you experience rain events, as this can decrease the efficiency of your chlorination system.
Finally, it is highly recommended that you monitor the chlorine level of your pool regularly to ensure that they remain within a safe range.
How high should my salt cell be?
When determining the ideal height for your salt cell, it’s important to take into account the size of your pool, your local climate, and the make and model of your salt cell. Generally speaking, a salt cell should be placed roughly 6 inches from the water’s surface, but this may vary depending on the depth of your pool.
It’s also important to place the chloride generator away from any areas of direct sunlight, as the excess heat this generates can interfere with the effectiveness of your sanitizer. It’s also important to make sure your cell is installed at the right height, as a salt cell that is too low will not be able to generate enough chlorine, and a cell that is too high will come into contact with too many airborne contaminates.
Ultimately, it is best to refer to the manufacturer’s installation instructions as they will provide information on the optimal installation height for your specific model.