Keeping a pool or spa clean really comes down to two chores: keeping the water sanitized and pulling debris off the surface. The four products here take different approaches. Two are automatic inline chlorine/bromine feeders with the same model name but different conditions and listed prices, one is a salt chlorinator power center for a specific family of systems, and one is a floating skimmer for above-ground pools. Listed prices run from USD 24.99 to USD 155.49, so the first decision is what your setup actually needs, not just what costs less.
Quick Take
The right choice depends on whether you need sanitizer feeding, a salt-system power center, or surface debris removal. The new-condition R171096 feeder is the logical pick if you want an inline chemical feeder; the same model in open-box condition is available but at a higher listed price. The 520556 Salt Chlorinator Power Center is the part to look at if you have an IC20, IC40, or IC60 salt chlorinator system. The Valdorena floating skimmer is the lowest-priced item here and is meant for above-ground pool surface cleaning.
Listed Price Comparison
| Product | Listed Price | Price Bar | Condition / Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| R171096 320 Automatic Inline Chlorine/Bromine Feeder (New) | USD 46.99 | New-condition feeder for chemical sanitizing | |
| R171096 320 Automatic Inline Chlorine/Bromine Feeder (Open Box) | USD 49.99 | Open-box version of the same feeder | |
| Automatic Floating Pool Surface Skimmer for Above Ground Pools (New Sealed) | USD 24.99 | Surface skimmer for above-ground pools | |
| 520556 Salt Chlorinator Power Center For Pool and Spa IC20 IC40 IC60 | USD 155.49 | Power center replacement for compatible salt systems |
Decision Matrix
| Your setup | Best fit from this set |
|---|---|
| Need an inline chlorine/bromine feeder in new condition | R171096 320 feeder (New) |
| Prefer the same feeder in an open-box condition | R171096 320 feeder (Open Box) |
| Need a power center for an IC20, IC40, or IC60 salt chlorinator system | 520556 Salt Chlorinator Power Center |
| Want hands-free surface skimming for an above-ground pool | Automatic Floating Pool Surface Skimmer |
Product Notes
R171096 320 Automatic Inline Chlorine/Bromine Feeder (New)
This is the new-condition version of the R171096-style feeder, listed at USD 46.99. It is described as an upgraded design with a chlorinator tube and bushing, and high-capacity performance that holds multiple chlorine or bromine tablets. It also carries a three-month warranty. The trade-off is that this feeder handles sanitizer only; leaves, bugs, and other surface debris still need a skimmer or filter.
R171096 320 Automatic Inline Chlorine/Bromine Feeder (Open Box)
If you specifically want the open-box variant, this R171096 feeder is listed at USD 49.99. It is described as an automatic inline feeder with adjustable flow control, an upgraded base and control valve, and compatibility with Pentair. The condition is open-box, and the warranty is listed at three months. The main limitation is the price: the new-condition version is listed lower than this open-box unit.
520556 Salt Chlorinator Power Center For Pool and Spa IC20 IC40 IC60
At USD 155.49, this is the highest listed price in this group and the only component built around a salt chlorinator system. It is described as a replacement power center for pool and spa automatic control systems using IC20, IC40, or IC60 cells, and it is noted for in-ground pools. Installation instructions are included, and the replacement is recommended for professional installation. The limitation is that this is a system part, not a complete chlorinator; it works with the electrolytic cell rather than replacing chemical feeding on its own.
Automatic Floating Pool Surface Skimmer for Above Ground Pools (New Sealed)
This Valdorena skimmer is the lowest-priced item here at USD 24.99. The title says new and sealed, and the unit is described as floating on the water's surface and connecting through an included hose to an existing pool filter pump to pull leaves, bugs, and debris before they sink. It self-adjusts to the pool's water level, includes full instructions, and carries a one-year warranty. The limitation is that it is a surface skimmer only; it does not sanitize or treat the water chemistry.
Final Recommendation by Use Case
If your pool or spa needs steady chlorine or bromine feeding, the new-condition R171096 feeder is the most straightforward choice because it is listed lower than the same model's open-box version. If you already run a salt chlorinator system with IC20, IC40, or IC60 cells, the 520556 Salt Chlorinator Power Center is the matching part for that setup. If you have an above-ground pool and simply want to keep the surface clear, the Valdorena floating skimmer is the lowest-priced and most direct option.
