SWG Output / Run Time

Estimate FC added from your salt cell based on rating, runtime, and percent setting.

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Pool volume (gallons)

Cell rating (lbs chlorine/day @ 100%)

Look on the cell spec sheet (often 1.0–2.0 lbs/day).

Pump run time (hours/day)

SWG percent setting (%)

Estimated FC added per day:

Real output varies with salt level, water temperature, scaling, cell age, and flow.

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Tip: If FC is drifting low, increase percent or runtime (or both). If FC is drifting high, reduce percent or runtime.

Understanding Salt Cell Output and Run Time

A saltwater chlorine generator produces chlorine gradually while the circulation system is running. The amount of Free Chlorine added each day depends on the cell’s rated chlorine production, the number of hours it operates, the output percentage setting, and the total pool volume.

How This Calculator Works

The calculator begins with the manufacturer’s maximum chlorine-production rating in pounds per day at 100% output. It then adjusts that rating for the number of hours the pump runs and the percentage setting selected on the salt system.

Why Pump Run Time Matters

Most salt cells only produce chlorine when water is flowing and the control system is active. A cell rated for 24-hour production will make less chlorine if the pump runs for only part of the day.

Why the Percentage Setting Matters

At 100%, the cell produces whenever it is energized.
At 50%, it produces for about half of the available run time.
Lower settings reduce daily chlorine production.
Higher settings increase production but may shorten cell life over time.

What Can Reduce Real-World Output

Actual production may be lower than the estimate when salt is outside the recommended range, water is cold, flow is restricted, the cell is scaled, or the cell is aging. Heavy swimmer use, rain, sunlight, and algae demand can also cause Free Chlorine to fall even when the system is producing normally.

How to Adjust the System

If Free Chlorine trends low, increase the percentage setting, increase pump run time, or inspect the cell and water conditions. If Free Chlorine trends high, reduce the percentage setting or shorten the run time. Make small changes and retest over several days.

Important Notes

Use the chlorine-production rating from the manufacturer’s specifications.
Keep salt, flow, and water temperature within the cell’s operating range.
Inspect and clean scale only according to manufacturer directions.
Verify actual Free Chlorine with a reliable test kit.