The best swimming pool chlorinator system depends on how your pool plumbing is arranged and how much tablet capacity you need. The Hayward CL200EF is listed with conflicting in-line and off-line wording, so verify its configuration before buying; the Hayward CL220EF is specifically an off-line feeder. The Pentair Rainbow 320 is an in-line option, while the TOVEN-RV replacement-style feeder suits compatible Hayward plumbing. U.S. Pool Supply offers a 9-pound in-line feeder with an adjustable dial.
| Product | Best suited for | Key consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Hayward CL200EF | Buyers considering a high-capacity Hayward feeder | Confirm whether the unit matches your plumbing layout |
| Hayward CL220EF | Off-line feeder installations | Requires an off-line setup |
| Pentair Rainbow 320 | In-line pool or spa installations | Check pipe fitting sizes |
| TOVEN-RV CL200 | Compatible Hayward CL200 or CL200EF plumbing | Unions and adapters are not included |
| U.S. Pool Supply feeder | Buyers seeking a 9-pound adjustable in-line unit | Chlorine tablets are not included |
Hayward CL200EF High-Capacity Feeder
The Hayward CL200EF is presented as an automatic chlorine feeder for in-ground pools, with a capacity of up to 9 pounds of chlorine tablets. Its listed features describe a corrosion-resistant, chemical-resistant housing and a design intended to distribute chlorine with fewer manual adjustments.
Best for: Pool owners looking for a high-capacity Hayward feeder and longer intervals between refills. It was selected for its stated 9-pound capacity and automatic feeding design.
Check before buying: The product title calls it in-line, while the supplied features describe off-line chlorination. Confirm the exact model configuration and plumbing requirements with the seller or product documentation before ordering.
Hayward CL220EF Off-Line Feeder
The Hayward CL220EF is an off-line chemical feeder with a stated 9-pound capacity. Its fully enclosed design is described as preventing escaping fumes, and the Easy Lok threaded cover provides access for adding tablets or sticks. The listed features also state that special venting is not required.
Best for: Owners whose pool plumbing is configured for an off-line feeder and who want a large-capacity unit with a threaded access cover. It is distinct from an in-line feeder, so the plumbing arrangement matters.
Limitation: Choose another product if your installation specifically requires an in-line unit; this model is identified as off-line.
Pentair Rainbow 320 In-Line Feeder
The Pentair R171096 Rainbow 320 is an automatic in-line chlorine or bromine feeder designed for permanent installation in the return line of a new or existing pool or spa. It is supplied with a 2-inch slip PVC fitting and adapters for 1-1/2-inch plumbing. The listing says no special venting is required.
Best for: Buyers seeking an in-line feeder for a pool or spa return line, especially when the listed fitting sizes suit the existing plumbing. Its support for chlorine or bromine tablets gives it an alternative sanitizer use stated in the product features.
Check before buying: Confirm your pipe size and connection type; the listed fittings may not match every installation.
TOVEN-RV CL200 Replacement-Style Feeder
This TOVEN-RV in-line feeder is described as compatible with Hayward CL200 and CL200EF plumbing. Its ports have 1-1/2-inch inner threads and 2-inch outer threads. An adjustable control dial changes the chlorine feed rate, and a threaded top cover provides access for refilling slow-dissolving tablets.
Best for: Owners replacing a compatible CL200 or CL200EF-style in-line unit who have checked their plumbing dimensions. The adjustable feed and specified dual-thread ports make it a useful option to compare for that setup.
Limitation: Unions and adapters are not included. The listing explicitly distinguishes this in-line unit from an off-line CL220-style feeder.
U.S. Pool Supply 9-Pound In-Line Feeder
This U.S. Pool Supply automatic in-line feeder holds up to 9 pounds of tablets or sticks. Its adjustable dial controls feeding speed, and the product includes installation and operating instructions plus a lid wrench. The body is described as durable ABS plastic. The listed compatible chemicals include slow-dissolving trichlor chlorine or bromine tablets and sticks.
Best for: Pool owners seeking a 9-pound in-line feeder with an adjustable control and included installation accessories.
Limitation: Tablets and sticks are not included. Confirm the unit’s plumbing connections suit your pool before installation.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Pool Chlorinator
Should you choose an in-line or off-line feeder?
An in-line feeder installs in the pool return plumbing, while an off-line model uses a separate connection arrangement. Match the feeder type to your current plumbing and installation plan. Do not rely on a product title alone when the description gives conflicting information, as with the CL200EF listing.
How much capacity do you need?
Compare stated capacity and refill preferences. The Hayward CL200EF, Hayward CL220EF, and U.S. Pool Supply feeder list capacities of up to 9 pounds. Capacity alone does not determine the right feeding schedule; follow the product instructions and measure pool sanitizer levels.
What fittings should you check?
Measure or identify pipe diameter, thread type, and existing unions or adapters before ordering. The Pentair listing specifies 2-inch slip PVC fittings with adapters for 1-1/2-inch plumbing. The TOVEN-RV lists inner and outer thread sizes and states that unions and adapters are not included.
Which controls and accessories matter?
An adjustable feed dial can help change the delivery rate, as listed for the TOVEN-RV and U.S. Pool Supply models. Also compare access covers, included tools, and instructions. Use the feeder according to its directions and test pool water rather than assuming a fixed setting will suit every pool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an automatic pool chlorinator do?
It holds chlorine tablets or sticks and introduces sanitizer into pool water through the feeder system. The product’s instructions and water testing determine how to set and maintain the feed.
Can an in-line chlorinator replace an off-line model?
Not automatically. The two types use different plumbing arrangements. Check the existing installation and choose a feeder designed for that configuration.
Can these feeders use bromine?
Some listings specify bromine use, including the Pentair Rainbow 320 and U.S. Pool Supply feeder. Follow the specific product instructions for the sanitizer used.
Are chlorine tablets included?
The U.S. Pool Supply listing says tablets and sticks are not included. Check each product listing for the contents supplied with the feeder.
How do I avoid ordering the wrong feeder?
Confirm the model type, pipe dimensions, thread or slip connections, and required adapters before purchase. For listings with inconsistent descriptions, verify the configuration with the seller or manufacturer documentation.