Salt Cells are one of the biggest quality-of-life improvements any pool owner can get. But what happens when your salt cell is clogged & no longer producing chlorine?
In this guide, we'll go over a step-by-step guide on How to Clean Pentair Salt Cells, and some recommendations from our team with 30+ years experience managing commercial & residential pools.
This guide will work for Pentair IntelliChlor IC20, IC40, & IC60. The same procedure applies for TradeGrade & EC (Online) Models.
Why is it important to clean your Pentair Salt Cell?
Cleaning your Pentair salt cell is of utmost importance in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your pool's chlorination system. By regularly cleaning the salt cell, you ensure that it is free from mineral deposits and other contaminants that can hinder its performance.
Neglecting this essential maintenance task can lead to reduced chlorine production, which in turn can result in inadequate sanitization of your pool water.
This can create an environment conducive to the growth of bacteria, algae, and other harmful organisms. Furthermore, a dirty salt cell can also cause increased wear and tear on your chlorinator, potentially leading to costly repairs or even premature replacement. In this article, we'll go over a step-by-step guide on how to clean your own Pentair Salt Cell!
Materials Needed to Clean your Pentair Salt Cell
To clean your Pentair salt cell, you will need a few materials. First, make sure you have a suitable cleaning solution. There are various options available, but we've found that a diluted solution of muriatic acid works very well. You can also use Acid Magic or Acid Blue, which are low-fume muriatic acid alternatives. There are cell cleaners available as
well, but we haven't found those to work as well as acid.
We typically use a solution of about 6-7 parts water, & 1 part muriatic acid. However, more buildup may require a stronger concentration of acid.
Additionally, you'll need Pentair's Cell Cleaning Stand. Since you'll be soaking the cell in muriatic acid, you'll definetely want to get this if you don't already have it.
Next, you'll need a soft brush. This can be a toothbrush or any other brush with soft bristles that won't damage the electrodes on the cell. Avoid using abrasive brushes or pads, as they can scratch the surface of the cell and reduce its effectiveness.
Lastly, you'll need access to water for rinsing. A garden hose works well for this purpose, but if you don't have one nearby, a bucket of water will suffice.
With these materials in hand, you're ready to begin cleaning your Pentair salt cell. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines when performing maintenance on your pool equipment.
To recap, you'll need:
Access to a hose
Muriatic Acid Solution with 6/7 parts water to 1 part acid
Pentair Cell Cleaning Stand
Soft Brush or Toothbrush
Cleaning your Pentair Salt Cell?
A step-by-step guide on cleaning your cell.
1. Disconnecting the Power Supply
Turn off the breaker for the salt cell & disconnect the cell's cable from the power center.
2. Removing your Pentair Salt Cell
To remove the salt cell, locate the unions on either side of the cell and loosen them using a wrench. Carefully remove the cell from its housing and place it on a clean surface.
Take extra care in handling the o-rings & gaskets, you will need them when you re-install the cell!
3. Preparing the Solution
Get your personal choice of acid, and dilute it to around 6/7 parts water, and 1-part acid. For Acid Blue & Acid Magic, use a 5-part water to 1-part acid dilution. If you have significant scaling or calcium buildup, you may require a stronger concentration. Make sure the container you use to make your cleaning solution is cleaned prior to using it.
4. Removing Calcium Buildup: Soaking & Cleaning The Cell
Now that you have the cell removed & your cleaning solution ready, it's time to get to work.
Set the cell up-right on the cleaning stand, & pour the solution into the cell. Ensure that you are in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves to avoid any contact with the solution. Make sure that the solution reaches all fins on the inside of the cell.
Once the solution has sat inside of the cell for about 20-30 minutes, pour the solution out of the salt cell. If necassary, you can use a soft brush to gently scrub the electrodes to remove any stubborn deposits. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this could damage the delicate surface of the electrodes.
Once you have thoroughly cleaned both sides of the salt cell, rinse it off with water. Make sure to remove all traces of the cleaning solution before proceeding.
5. Re-Installing the Cell
Once you're finished cleaning the salt cell, it's time to re-install it! Make sure to note which direction the water flows in your system, & install the salt cell accordingly. Pentair's Salt Cells indicate which way water should be flowing through the cell, so just be mindful of that.
Don't forget your gaskets! If your gaskets look like their worn out, you can get a replacement cell union kit or union gasket kit here.
6. Restoring Power
Once you've got the cell re-installed & the system running, check the salt cell for leaks. These will usually come from the union connectors, if at all.
If you're having trouble getting the cell to stop leaking after you've installed it, wrap the male-threaded ends of the salt cell with Teflon or PTFE Tape. This will help create a better water-tight seal for the unions. Remember: if the gaskets for your salt cell are worn, it may be best to replace them.
How Often Should I Clean my Pentair Salt Cell?
The frequency of cleaning your Pentair salt cell depends on various factors such as the size of your pool, usage, and local water conditions. However, a general guideline is to clean the cell every 3 to 6 months. It's important to monitor the cell regularly and clean it when you notice a significant buildup of scale or calcium deposits.
Regular maintenance and cleaning will help ensure that your salt cell operates efficiently and extends its lifespan. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines when performing maintenance on your pool equipment.
By following these steps and properly cleaning your Pentair salt cell, you can say goodbye to pool maintenance hassles and enjoy a sparkling clean pool all season long. So, take the time to give your salt cell some TLC and keep enjoying the benefits of a low-maintenance pool system.
Conclusion?
Regularly cleaning your Pentair salt cell is crucial for maintaining its efficiency and prolonging its lifespan.
By following the step-by-step instructions provided in this post, you can ensure that your saltwater pool system operates at its best. Remember to prioritize safety when disconnecting and reconnecting the power supply, and be diligent in inspecting, soaking, brushing, and rinsing the salt cell.
With proper maintenance, your Pentair salt cell will continue to provide you with crystal-clear pool water for years to come!