Cleaning Pentair Salt Cells: How to Maintain Your Pool’s Salt Chlorinator

Keeping your Pentair salt cell clean is essential to maintaining clear, healthy water in your saltwater pool. Over time, salt cells can accumulate calcium and other debris, reducing their efficiency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through why salt cell cleaning is essential, step-by-step cleaning instructions, and which Pentair salt cells are most popular. 

Why Clean Your Pentair Salt Cell?

Salt cells, also known as salt chlorinators, are vital in converting salt into chlorine to sanitize your pool. Over time, they can build up calcium deposits and other minerals, particularly in areas with hard water, which affects Arizona and Nevada residents. A clean salt cell ensures:

• Efficient chlorine production for balanced pool water
• Longer lifespan of the salt chlorinator
• Lower maintenance costs over time
• Healthier, clearer water

Neglecting this routine maintenance can lead to cloudy water, increased chlorine demand, and potentially costly repairs or replacements.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Pentair Salt Cell

Cleaning a salt cell is a straightforward process. Follow these steps every 3-6 months to keep your Pentair chlorinator in top shape.

1. Turn Off Power and Remove the Cell
   Ensure your pool system is turned off. Remove the salt cell following the manufacturer’s instructions (always refer to your model's manual).
   
   
2. Inspect the Cell for Build-Up
   Check for white, crusty deposits—these are typically calcium deposits that need to be removed.
   
   
3. Prepare a Mild Acid Solution
   Use a mixture of one part muriatic acid to four parts water in a plastic container. Remember to add acid to water, not water to acid, to avoid splashing.
   
   
4. Submerge the Salt Cell
   Carefully place the cell into the solution. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the bubbling stops. This reaction indicates the deposits are dissolving.
   
   
5. Rinse Thoroughly with Fresh Water
   Remove the cell from the acid solution and rinse it well with a garden hose to clear away any remaining acid and debris.
   
   
6. Reinstall the Cell and Turn on the System
   Replace the cell and restore power to the pool system. Check the control panel to ensure the cell is working correctly.

Tip: Don’t clean your salt cell more than necessary, as over-cleaning can wear down the metal plates.

Key Points for Pentair Salt Cell Cleaning

• Safety First: Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling muriatic acid.
• Don’t Over-Clean: Too much cleaning can reduce your cell’s lifespan.
• Routine Inspection: Check your salt cell regularly, especially in hard-water regions like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Las Vegas.

Popular Pentair Salt Chlorinators

Pentair offers high-quality salt chlorinators that make saltwater pool maintenance straightforward. Here are some top options available from Aqua Pool Supply:

Pentair IntelliChlor IC20 Salt Chlorinator

• Ideal for pools up to 20,000 gallons
• Simple control panel for easy monitoring and adjustments
• Compact and highly durable

Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 Salt Chlorinator

• Suitable for pools up to 40,000 gallons
• Generates chlorine automatically based on pool needs
• Compatible with IntelliTouch® and EasyTouch® automation systems

Pentair IntelliChlor IC60 Salt Chlorinator

• Great for larger pools (up to 60,000 gallons)
• Offers the highest chlorine production capacity
• Reliable and efficient, with a robust design for frequent use

These models are available for purchase online or in-store at any of our locations. 

Aqua Pool Supply Locations:

• Phoenix Location: 1819 W. Rose Garden Ln Suite #1, Phoenix, AZ 85027
• Scottsdale Location: 7625 E Redfield Rd Suite 165, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
• Las Vegas Location: 6280 S Valley View Blvd Suite #514, Las Vegas, NV 89118

Each location offers a comprehensive selection of Pentair products, including salt chlorinators, parts, and cleaning supplies.

How Often Should You Clean Your Pentair Salt Cell?

For most Pentair salt cells, cleaning every 3-6 months is recommended, though pools in hard water areas may need more frequent maintenance. If your salt cell’s control panel shows a “Low Chlorine” or “Cell Service” light, it’s time to inspect and possibly clean the cell.

In locations where water is often high in calcium, cleaning may be required more frequently to prevent buildup and ensure optimal performance.

Final Thoughts on Cleaning Your Pentair Salt Cell

Regularly cleaning your Pentair salt cell is key to maintaining a safe, enjoyable pool experience. A well-maintained salt cell will save you time, reduce costs, and keep your water sparkling. By following the cleaning steps outlined above, you can ensure that your pool’s salt chlorinator continues to perform optimally, even in challenging water conditions.

For more details on Pentair salt chlorinators or help with pool equipment maintenance, explore our Salt Chlorine Generators online or visit one of our stores in Arizona and Nevada. Our team is here to help you keep your pool in pristine condition year-round!