Choose a system that can handle 1.5x to 2x the amount of gallons in your pool.
Manufacturer gallon or max capacity ratings are the absolute maximum the system can handle with 24 hour operation at full power and ideal conditions
The real measure of a system's capacity is "Chlorine Output" - more is better
Choosing a system with higher chlorine output is always a better value, it will make your equipment last longer, and you'll have a better experience - it will be easier to keep the pool clean even after heavy rains, heatwaves, pool parties, etc...
In almost all cases, over-sizing is preferred; larger systems don't have to work as hard to do the same job, and have the extra capacity to handle situations like peak-season use or temporary water chemistry issues. Read on to learn how to choose the best saltwater chlorine generator for your pool.
The most important factor to consider when selecting a salt system is the power output capacity, always rated in terms of “pounds per day.” This represents the unit’s chlorine output potential under ideal conditions when running at full power 24 hours per day, and is a more reliable gauge of a system's capability and worth than a manufacturer’s claim of potential gallons served. Even in ideal circumstances, a pool can need at least 0.4 pounds per day per 10,000 gallons of water, but there are many common conditions that can push this demand much higher: High water temperatures, abundant sunshine, shallow water, leaves and debris, and high bather loads (especially young children) all contribute to increased demand for sanitizer. One or more of these conditions will necessitate a system that has the ability to produce higher amounts of chlorine.
Ultimately, more power means more value and a better experience. A higher power system will use up less of its resources and lifespan because it can run at lower outputs on a daily basis- and even more importantly, since the system isn't running near its peak capacity, you'll have the extra ability to turn your system up after high bather loads or storms instead of having to add extra chlorine or shock!
Keep in mind that if you run your pool pumps for only a few hours per day, you must get a system that produces the needed sanitizer in that amount of time. Undersized systems will require additional run time, wasting electricity and shortening the life of the cell. Do the math or call us and let us recommend a system that will work just as well in August as it does in May.
Calculating Pool Size in Gallons (Measurements in Feet)
Rectangular - Length x Width x Average Depth x 7.5
Oval - Length x Width x Average Depth x 6.7
Round - Diameter x Diameter x Average Depth x 5.9
Example (rectangular pool):
30’ Length x 15’ Width x 6’ Average Depth x 7.5 = 20250 Gallons