The CircuPool SJ Series Electronic Chlorine Generator is a saltwater chlorination system designed to provide advanced swimming pool sanitation. It offers an escape from the routine of manual pool chlorination by continuously creating free chlorine from a low level of salt in the pool water. This process kills bacteria and algae, helping to maintain a sparkling clean pool. The system is designed for easy operation and minimal maintenance, ensuring consistent and reliable performance when used and maintained as specified.
Function Description:
The SJ Series system operates using electrolysis to generate chlorine from salt molecules (NaCl) present in the pool water. A small electric charge is applied across a set of titanium plates inside the Electrolytic Cell, producing Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl). In water, Sodium Hypochlorite dissociates into sodium (Na+) and hypochlorite (OCl-) ions. The hypochlorite ions then combine with hydrogen (H+) ions from the water to form hypochlorous acid (HOCl), which is the active agent responsible for destroying bacteria and algae and oxidizing organic matter. This form of chlorine acts quickly in the pipe, leaving a mild residual in the pool. The Electrolytic Cell also continuously "shocks" the incoming water, burning off oils, organic matter, and other particles that need to be oxidized. A key benefit of this process is that the salt is continuously recycled; after cleaning the pool, the original molecules reform, and the process begins again, meaning the salt itself is not consumed.
The system comprises three main components: the Control Module, the Electrolytic Cell, and the Flow Switch & Temperature Sensor. The Control Module supplies power to the Cell and allows users to customize the system's operation. The Electrolytic Cell is where chlorine is created as water passes through it. The Flow Switch & Temperature Sensor ensures adequate water flow for the Cell to activate and includes additional sensors for optimal operation.
Usage Features:
The SJ Series is designed for straightforward use. Before initial startup, it is crucial to ensure the pool water is chemically balanced and that all installation steps are complete. Once powered on, the system's Chlorine Output LED indicators will display the selected level, and one of the Polarity LED indicators will be lit. The Polarity lights automatically alternate every six hours of run time, a self-cleaning feature that minimizes mineral buildup and prolongs Cell life.
Users can adjust the Chlorine Output Level using the “-” or “+” buttons on the Control Module to set the rate of chlorine production. For initial setup, it is recommended to start at approximately 75% output and adjust as needed based on chlorine levels measured after two to three days. This iterative adjustment helps find the ideal setting for the pool's specific needs, which typically only requires minor adjustments throughout the season due to changes in temperature or bather load.
The system also features a "Boost Mode" for situations requiring a large amount of sanitizer, such as high bather loads or heavy rainfall. By raising the chlorine output graph to full and pressing the "+" button again, Boost Mode activates, increasing chlorine output to maximum (an additional 20%) for 72 hours. After this period, the system automatically returns to its previous setting.
The Control Module includes an On/Off switch for main system power. It is designed to activate when power is engaged by the pool pump timer or controls, returning to its last settings. The system provides visual feedback through LED indicators:
- Generate: Illuminates when the system is actively generating chlorine. It will not always be on, as it cycles based on the output setting.
- Flow: Illuminates green when sufficient water flow is detected. If red, it indicates insufficient water flow or air in the system, preventing operation.
- Salt: Illuminates green normally. If red, it suggests insufficient salinity, preventing operation.
- Cell: Illuminates green normally. If red, the cell may require service or cleaning.
- Low Water Temp: Illuminates red if the water temperature is too low for chlorine generation, a normal occurrence in colder seasons.
The system is designed to coordinate with the pool pump's power source, ensuring both turn on and off together. For variable speed pumps, a timer should be used to coordinate SJ run time with full-flow pump operation.
Maintenance Features:
The SJ Series requires minimal maintenance, primarily focusing on monitoring pool salinity and cleaning the Electrolytic Cell. Regular monitoring of pool water chemistry, including salt levels, pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and stabilizer (cyanuric acid), is essential for optimal performance and longevity of the Cell. The ideal salt level is around 3500 ppm, with a recommended range of 3000-4000 ppm. The manual provides a chart to help calculate the amount of salt needed based on pool size and existing salinity. When adding salt, it should be emptied into the shallow end of the pool with the filter and pump running to circulate and dissolve it, keeping the SJ-Series off during this time. Only evaporated, granulated, non-iodized salt (at least 99% pure NaCl) should be used.
The Electrolytic Cell needs to be cleaned periodically to remove mineral scaling. The system will alert the user via the "Cell" LED light when cleaning is required, and it will cease chlorine production until the scaling is removed. The manual provides two options for cleaning the Cell:
- Acid Bath Method (Option 1): This involves removing the Cell, mixing a diluted muriatic acid solution (1 part acid to 4 parts water), and soaking the Cell for no more than ten minutes. After soaking, the Cell should be rinsed and reinstalled.
- Mechanical Cleaning Method (Option 2): This method involves unscrewing the Cell Cap, sliding the Cell Plate Assembly out, and using the supplied cleaning stick between titanium plates and connection brackets to loosen and dislodge mineral buildup. Debris is then hosed off with a strong garden-hose nozzle. The O-Ring and its channel should be clean and securely seated before reinstallation.
It is important to note that cleaning is only necessary for excessive mineral buildup; a light coating does not impede performance, and unnecessary cleaning can reduce the Cell's lifespan. Only the supplied cleaning tool should be used; metal or other hard objects will void the warranty.
General maintenance also includes "winterizing" the system in cold climates. The SJ-Series automatically reduces chlorine output in cold water, and the "Low Water Temp" LED illuminates. For freezing temperatures, it is recommended to drain all water from the pump, filter, supply, and return lines to prevent damage. The Control Module is capable of withstanding winter weather and does not need to be removed.
When the titanium blades inside the Electrolytic Cell reach the end of their lifespan, replacements are readily available. The manual emphasizes using only genuine CircuPool replacement parts to ensure quality and value.
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