Swimming Pool Salt Water Generators Won't Work in the Winter Months

 When your pool's water temperature dips into the low 60s, your saltwater generator will likely stop producing chlorine. At that point, it’s a good idea to turn off the generator and switch to an alternative chlorine source.

Using liquid chlorine is a great option, as it most closely resembles the chlorine produced by your salt cell. Plus, you’ll need only a small amount in winter. Monthly doses of Dichlor can also be helpful, as it contains about 50% cyanuric acid (CYA), which can boost your pool’s CYA level in winter, potentially avoiding a spring CYA recharge.

If you’re in a warmer climate like Southern California, you might prefer adding a floater with Trichlor tablets tied to the skimmer lid to prevent it from drifting, which reduces the risk of staining. Trichlor, like Dichlor, has 50% CYA, so you can easily maintain CYA levels with a small weekly dose.

If avoiding CYA altogether, stick to liquid chlorine as it contains no cyanuric acid.

To ensure your saltwater generator is ready for spring, consider these key factors:

- **Pool Size:** A smaller pool (like 8,000 gallons) is easier on the SWG than a larger one. Ensure your salt cell matches your pool's size for efficient chlorine production.

  

- **Salt Cell Size:** Choose the correct cell size for your pool volume. For example, the Intellichor IC40 suits pools up to 40,000 gallons, while the IC20 is best for up to 20,000 gallons. An undersized cell will need to run constantly, while an oversized one has more capacity.

- **Salt Cell Output Setting:** Set your SWG output percentage according to your chlorine needs. A 100% setting means it produces chlorine constantly while the pump runs; a 50% setting means it alternates between on and off.

- **Pump Run Time:** The longer you run your pump, the more chlorine the SWG generates. Higher RPMs on variable-speed pumps also increase production.

- **Cyanuric Acid (CYA) Level:** CYA protects chlorine from UV rays, ideally between 30-50 ppm. If the level is low, your chlorine might not hold up. If needed, increase CYA to up to 80 ppm.

- **Water Quality:** Phosphates, nitrates, oils, and frequent use all affect chlorine levels. High phosphates (over 500 ppb) or heavy use may require higher SWG output and longer pump times.

- **Water Temperature:** SWG performance drops in cold water and stops near 60°F.

- **Salt Cell Cleanliness:** Calcium buildup on cell plates lowers chlorine output, even at 100%. Regularly check for warning lights and clean as needed.

- **Salt Level:** If the salt level is below 3000 ppm, your SWG may reduce output or stop working. Maintain the level recommended by the manufacturer.

To achieve a 3-5 ppm chlorine output, balance these factors. If chlorine levels are low, adjust the SWG output or increase pump run time to reach optimal levels.