Intex Saltwater Initial Startup Questions (QX2100 w/ECO)

[Pezman]

Hello,

What a wonderful community here. I've attempted to search, and found several Q2100 threads, but I'm not finding one about my specific concerns, so I'm attempting a post.

We own an INTEX 26367EH Ultra XTR (24ft x 12ft) w/a QX2100 Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump and SWG (w/ECO) we did the initial setup this past weekend, and I've added the 210 pounds of salt recommended by the manual. I've also added ~5lbs of backing soda as I try to balance my Alkalinity.

The pool has been up for four days, and my current test strip results:

• Total Hardness: 100
• Total Chlorine: 0
• Free Chlorine: 0
• pH: 7.8
• Total Alkalinity: 80
• Stabilizer: 0

For the life of me, in the manual although there are mentions of 'initial setup', it never completes the thought of what are the initial programmed settings until the pool achieves 'normal'. Until I can learn more, I've been doing the 'operation instructions', which just say to run the filter for ~8 hours at night and set the chlorinator to run for ~8 hours at night too. I believe I need to get from 0 Total Chlorine to 2.5/3 quickly. I live in Colorado, the water is presently 82 degrees, and the outside air temp is 97.

My core questions are:
1. Does anyone own this Pump/SWG? If so, what are the first things to do for a fresh setup? Should I be pressing 'Boost', and if so, for how long should I set it?
2. Am I in too much of a rush? How long should I wait for the total chlorine levels to hit 2.5/3?
3. Should I add some other form of chlorine to 'get the chlorine up quicker,' or am I worried about things that don't matter?

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[Texas Splash]

Hello and welcome to TFP! Each filter, pump, and SWG manufacture will have varied instructions on how to operate your equipment. Here is a basic guide - Run your pump long enough each day to adequately keep the water's surface clear and to operate your SWG as required to produce chlorine. That said, let's get to your questions:

Does anyone own this Pump/SWG? If so, what are the first things to do for a fresh setup? Should I be pressing 'Boost', and if so, for how long should I set it?

I'm sure we have some members who do, but they may not see your post on any given day. See the following link as an initial guide.

Just Filled Your Pool with Water? Here's What To Do Next - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

Am I in too much of a rush? How long should I wait for the total chlorine levels to hit 2.5/3?

To prevent algae, you must always have the proper FC level compared to your current CYA. Please go to our FC/CYA Levels to see how the FC & CYA are related.

Should I add some other form of chlorine to 'get the chlorine up quicker,' or am I worried about things that don't matter?

Yes! I always keep a gallon or two of liquid chlorine handy just in case there is a problem with the SWG. It works better than the SWG boost or super-chlorinate functions.

For now, refer to that link above about getting started with new water. You'll see an emphasis on adjusting the FC, CYA, and pH. I'll place some additional links below to help. If you have any questions, let us know.

Pool Care Basics

Basic Pool Care Schedule

This basic pool care schedule can guide you in creating your own pool care routine. Regular pool maintenance will keep your water sparkling!

www.troublefreepool.com

Determine Pump Run Time

To figure out how many hours you need to run your pump, you need to know how fast your pump works. You can find this here.

www.troublefreepool.com

Water Balance for SWGs

Saltwater pools are becoming more and more popular. We discuss How salt generators work and water balance tips for SWGs to run them.

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Texas Splash]

Also take a moment to update your signature. See my sig as an example and the link below for assistance.

Create Your Signature - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com