When it comes to automatic chlorine and bromine feeders, Pentair is a noteworthy brand to consider. They have, amongst other models, the Pentair Rainbow 300 and the Pentair Rainbow 320. These two are suitable for use in both residential and commercial pools. Even with tablets that dissolve slowly, the Pentair Rainbow 300 and the Pentair Rainbow 320 are highly efficient. Their automatic operation significantly eliminates the need for manual handling of chemicals. The Pentair Rainbow 300 and the Pentair Rainbow 320 both have flow-through circulation. This enhances the clean water output. Which of the two is the best choice though, you may wonder? Let us explore the Pentair Rainbow 300 versus the Pentair Rainbow 320.
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Pentair Rainbow 300 Vs 320: Comparison Table
| Pentair Rainbow 300 | Pentair Rainbow 320 | |
| Starting Price | $93.48 | $92.22 |
| Max Pressure | 50 PSI | 50 PSI |
| Weight | 2.95 Pounds | 4.5 Pounds |
| System Type | Offline | Inline |
| Tablets Capacity | 11 Large or 98 Small | 11 Large or 98 Small |
| Bottom Feed | 6500 to 27000 Gallons | 6500 to 27000 Gallons |
| Top Feed | 18000 to 70000 Gallons | 18000 to 70000 Gallons |
| Installation Type | Residential | Residential & Commercial |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 2 Year |
| Feeder Type | Bromine Or Chlorine Tablets | Bromine Or Chlorine Tablets |
| Product Type | Chemical Feeder | Chemical Feeder |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Pentair Rainbow 300 |
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| Pentair Rainbow 320 |
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Pentair Rainbow 300 Vs 320: Design
The Pentair Rainbow 300 has a no-clog positive external control valve. Pentair Rainbow 300 and the Pentair Rainbow 320 both have a fine-control valve. This is essential to regulating the feed rate with respect to applicable pool requirements. The feeder of the Pentair Rainbow 300 is made in such a way that it automatically lowers water level when needs be. It also has a check valve built-in. This prevents over feeding of the chemical during use. Those attributes also apply to the Pentair Rainbow 320. The Pentair Rainbow 300 functions or operates on the pressure side of the pump. The Pentair Rainbow 300 features an offline system. This means it has to be installed via the side of the pool system by making a tube connection. The Pentair Rainbow 320 has an inline system. This means it can be installed straight to the pipe from the pool pump.
Pentair Rainbow 300 Vs 320: Core Uses
The Pentair Rainbow 300 is mostly recommended for use when a pool needs to be retrofitted for automatic sanitization or purification. In essence the Pentair Rainbow 300 is best for pool upgrades in that regard. The Pentair Rainbow 300 can treat from 12000 to 48000 gallons. The Pentair Rainbow 320 is typically suited for permanent installation. The Pentair Rainbow 300 is best for use in residential pools. The Pentair Rainbow 320 is also best for residential pools but is also well suited for commercial ones. The Pentair Rainbow 300 and the Pentair Rainbow 320 can both be used for above ground or in-ground pools. The important thing is to make sure all other variables are in check. For instance, the capacity or size of the pool in question must be consistent with the size of the Pentair Rainbow 300 or the Pentair Rainbow 320.
Pros Of The Pentair Rainbow 300
The Pentair Rainbow 300’s entire systems are enclosed. This ensures that no fumes escape. The design is simple and minimalistic. There is no need for any specialized venting. The top loading element makes it hassle free to add chemicals. The Pentair Rainbow 300 is easy to install, easy to use, and easy to remove. There is a positive external control valve. This valve ensures there is no clogging. The Pentair Rainbow 300 provides for efficient tablets use. This is made possible by the feeder which is designed to automatically lower the water level. This will stop the tablets from soaking when the pump is off. The Pentair Rainbow 300 feeds the sanitizer directly. This results in zero equipment damage. In the long run that will contribute to the longevity of the Pentair Rainbow 300.
Cons Of The Pentair Rainbow 300
The Pentair Rainbow 300 has an offline system. This system will not easily be applicable to all contexts. There is need for adequate space to accommodate the system. There is also need for the existing pool’s equipment to be compatible for easy installation. If not, that may complicate things thus necessitating some renovations. Of which that would lead to more costs. The offline system is also more intricate and can be hard to install.
Pros Of The Pentair Rainbow 320
The Pentair Rainbow 320 is easy to install, easy to use, and provides good value for money. It also has systems that are completely enclosed. That is why no gases or fumes can escape. No special venting required as well. It having an inline system is highly convenient because it is easier to install. The Pentair Rainbow 320, just like the Pentair Rainbow 300 eliminates the need or possibility of handling the chemicals. This makes it safer to use without any fear of chemical inhalation, ingesting, or any other complications. The Pentair Rainbow 320 has a split adapter plus it is NSF listed.
Cons Of The Pentair Rainbow 320
Some people may feel the price tag does not justify the difference. This also applies to the Pentair Rainbow 300. It is way cheaper to just apply the chemicals manually. Thus when you compare those choices, as in automatic chemical feeding versus manually feeding, the former seems more expensive. The other disadvantage of the Pentair Rainbow 320, just like the Pentair Rainbow 300, is the need for regular maintenance. Especially if complications arise, extra costs may be incurred in fixing or maintaining it. Another possible challenge is that the Pentair Rainbow 320 may leak sometimes.
Factors To Consider When Purchasing A Pool Chemical Feeder Or Chlorinator
You have to first of all consider the type of pool and its size. This will inform the size of the feeder you will need for the pool. If the feeder is too big it may lead to excessive chemical levels in the water. If it is too small it may not adequately apply the necessary chemical quantities. The type of pool does matter because some feeders may not work for certain types. For instance, not all feeders will work in an in-ground pool.
There is also a consideration to be made to choose between an in-line and offline feeder. This can be best informed by the nature of your pool equipment and the available space. You must also consider whether it is a chlorinator or a chemical feeder. By design, the two are the same. However, chlorinators are exclusively for chlorine application. Chemical feeders are generic meaning they can be used for applying both chlorine and other chemicals such as bromine. If you will be applying both then it would be wise to purchase a chemical feeder.
Pentair Rainbow 300 Vs 320: Our Pick
The Pentair Rainbow 320 is the best pick between the two. It has high performance and efficiency. It is even highly rated amongst most users online. It is cheaper though they are almost similarly priced with the Pentair Rainbow 300. The Pentair Rainbow 320 can be effectively used for both residential and commercial pools. The Pentair Rainbow 320 comes with a 2 year warranty; longer than the Pentair Rainbow 300’s 1 year. The Pentair Rainbow 320 has an in-line system. This is a good thing because it is easier to install than had it been offline like the Pentair Rainbow 300. This also eliminates hurdles that can come with an offline system that would need considerable space characteristics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can this be installed on my current pool equipment or it is only for new installments?
Yes it can be installed on existing discharge lines of different pool installations. If you have ever cut or assembled PVC pipes it should be easy for you. You will have to drain and clean the pool then restart though.
Does the flow direction matter when installing the inline chlorinator?
Yes, it does matter. There is actually a flow direction line on the base of the chlorinator. Basically it has to flow from the pool into the chlorinator first, then into the filter.
The feed tube has two connections, which one should I use?
You can use either of the two, it will still work fine. However, it would be best for you to use the top connection. This is because that is where the water enters and flows down over the tablets. This will result in more complete chlorine content in the water. Overall what is important is to set the concentration dial and monitor the chlorine levels.
How long should I run my pool chlorinator?
Provided your filter and chlorinator are adequately sized, 7 to 8 hours of runtime would be needed. 8 hours is actually the typical runtime in a day. Runtime may be extended during summer months and shortened in winter. Slow speed pumps may also necessitate extended runtimes.
How often should I add chlorine to my pool?
Usually you should add one tablet of chlorine every 3 to 7 days. This will depend on the insights from your water tests, so more tablets may be necessary sometimes. Adding excess chlorine will result in the water becoming too acidic. This can have serious effects on the skin of anyone who swims in the pool. That is why automatic chlorinators are recommended due to their precision.
Why are my chlorine tablets not dissolving in the chlorinator?
This could be an indication that your check valve is not working properly. This is because the check value will not be permitting water to pass through.
What setting should my automatic pool chlorinator be on?
Per 5000 gallons of water you must add one 3 inch chlorine tablet. That is the general guiding proportion to use. Then you should choose the midpoint setting on the dial (the one that reads 1 to 10). Bear in mind that if you choose a higher setting, the dissolution rate will much higher.
Conclusion
The Pentair Rainbow 300 and the Pentair Rainbow 320 are both considered heavy duty and high capacity feeders. They are automatic chemical feeders which makes it possible for them to operate even in your absence. They both make it easy to sanitize residential pools, commercial pools, or both. The Pentair Rainbow 320 is particularly suited for both types of pools. The Pentair Rainbow 320 can even sanitize pools of up to 658500 gallons. The Pentair Rainbow 300 and the Pentair Rainbow 320 both operate well with slow dissolving tablets. The Pentair Rainbow 320 surpasses the Pentair Rainbow 300 by having an inline system, which is better. The Pentair Rainbow 320 also comes with a longer warranty. It is also cheaper than the Pentair Rainbow 300.
| Pentair Rainbow 300 |
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| Pentair Rainbow 320 |
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