How to Clean a Jandy AquaPure Salt Cell

Keeping your Jandy AquaPure salt cell clean is essential for maintaining efficient chlorine generation and extending the life of your PLC1400 salt system. Over time, calcium and mineral buildup can reduce performance, trigger error codes, and lead to costly repairs if ignored.
This guide walks you through how to clean your Jandy salt cell safely and effectively, troubleshoot common issues, and keep your pool water sparkling clean.
Why Cleaning Your Jandy Salt Cell Matters
- Build-up of scale reduces chlorine output
- Can cause error codes like 120, 121, or 172
- Increases power consumption
- Shortens lifespan of your AquaPure cell
What You'll Need
- Garden hose with spray nozzle
- Cell cleaning stand or bracket (or a plastic container)
- Cell cleaning solution (e.g. 15% muriatic acid diluted with water)
- Protective gloves and eyewear

Step‑by‑Step: How to Clean a Jandy AquaPure Salt Cell
1. Turn Off the Power
Switch off the pool system at the circuit breaker to ensure safety before handling the cell.
2. Remove the Salt Cell
Loosen the union fittings on both ends of the cell and carefully withdraw it from the plumbing.
3. Inspect the Cell Plates
Look at the internal titanium plates. If you see white or gray crusty scale, deeper cleaning is needed.
4. Rinse with Water
Use a strong spray from your hose to flush off loose scale and deposits. Sometimes this is enough if buildup is light.
5. Acid Clean the Cell
- Place the cell on a cleaning stand or position it in a plastic container.
- Mix 1 part muriatic acid with 4 parts water (always add acid to water).
- Pour the solution into the cell so plates are submerged.
- Let it sit 10–15 minutes. Bubbling is normal.
- Once bubbling subsides, drain the solution and rinse thoroughly with water.
6. Reinstall and Restart
Reconnect the unions, secure all fittings, and restore power. Run the system and monitor chlorine production.
Troubleshooting Jandy AquaPure Error Codes
Cleaning can resolve many common error codes. Here are a few:
Error Code | Meaning | Suggested Fix |
---|---|---|
120 | Low current on reverse polarity | Clean the cell; check wiring |
121 | Low current on forward polarity | Inspect the cell or clean again |
172 | Cell voltage high | Verify salt levels, inspect sensors |
For more details, you can browse the Jandy Salt Chlorination Systems on Aqua Pool Supply. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Extra Tips to Maintain Your Jandy Chlorinator Cell
- Clean every 3–6 months (more often in hard water conditions).
- Maintain salt levels around 3,000–3,500 ppm.
- Use test strips or a salt meter to verify balance.
- Avoid wire brushes or pressure washers—they can damage plates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my Jandy salt cell?
Every 3–6 months, or more frequently if you see scaling or drop in performance.
Can I use vinegar instead of muriatic acid?
Vinegar may help for light deposits, but for heavier scaling acids or dedicated cell cleaners work much better.
Why is my AquaPure PLC1400 not producing chlorine?
Possible causes: scale buildup, incorrect salt levels, wiring issues, or system errors.
Is it safe to clean the cell myself?
Yes, if you power everything off, wear protective gear, and handle acidity carefully.
Where can I buy a replacement Jandy cell?
Check the PLC1400 product page on Aqua Pool Supply: PLC1400 cell kit. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Your Chlorinator’s Best Life Starts Now
By following this cleaning routine, your Jandy AquaPure PLC1400 salt cell will stay efficient, avoid frustrating error codes, and deliver reliable chlorination season after season. Explore the Jandy salt systems collection for parts or upgrades, or contact us for help.
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