How to Clean a Pool Salt Cell: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you own a swimming pool, chances are you’re familiar with the process of cleaning your pool salt cell. The salt cell is a crucial component of your pool’s chlorine generator, and it needs to be cleaned on a regular basis to keep your pool water clean and safe. In this blog article, I’ll explain what a salt cell is, why it needs to be cleaned, and provide detailed step-by-step instructions on how to clean a salt cell for both Pentair and Hayward systems.

What is a Salt Cell?

A salt cell is an important part of a pool’s chlorine generator system. It is a device that converts salt into chlorine, which is then used to sanitize the pool water. When the chlorine generator is activated, a low-voltage electrical current is passed through the salt cell, which causes a reaction that produces chlorine. The chlorine is then released into the pool, where it reacts with the contaminants in the water and helps keep it clean and safe.

The salt cell is an essential part of the chlorine generator system, and it needs to be cleaned on a regular basis to ensure that it is functioning properly. The cell can become clogged with minerals and other debris, which can reduce the amount of chlorine it produces and affect the quality of the pool water.

Why Should I Clean My Salt Cell?

Cleaning your salt cell on a regular basis is important for a few reasons. First, it helps to keep your pool water clean and safe by ensuring that the chlorine generator is functioning properly. When the salt cell is clogged with minerals and other debris, it can reduce the amount of chlorine it produces, which can lead to an increase in bacteria and other contaminants in the pool water.

Second, cleaning your salt cell can help extend its life. If the cell is not cleaned regularly, the buildup of minerals and debris can cause it to corrode, leading to a decrease in its efficiency and an increase in its maintenance costs.

Finally, cleaning your salt cell can help decrease energy costs. When the cell is clogged, it requires more electricity to produce chlorine, which can increase your energy bills.

Tools Needed for Cleaning Your Salt Cell

Before you start cleaning your salt cell, it’s important to make sure that you have the right tools. Here are some of the tools you’ll need:

• A soft brush
• A bucket
• A garden hose
• A sponge
• A towel
• A pair of gloves
• An acid-based cleaner
• A pH testing kit

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean a Pentair Salt Cell

Cleaning a Pentair salt cell is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. Here’s how to do it:

1. Unplug the salt cell from its power source and remove it from the pool.
2. Put on your gloves and use the soft brush to remove any debris from the cell.
3. Fill the bucket with water and add the acid-based cleaner to it.
4. Dip the sponge in the mixture and use it to scrub the cell.
5. Rinse the cell with the garden hose to remove any remaining debris.
6. Wipe the cell with a towel to remove any excess moisture.
7. Put the cell back in the pool and plug it into its power source.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean a Hayward Salt Cell

Cleaning a Hayward salt cell is a bit more involved, but still easy to do. Here’s how you do it:

1. Unplug the salt cell from its power source and remove it from the pool.
2. Put on your gloves and use the soft brush to remove any debris from the cell.
3. Fill the bucket with water and add the acid-based cleaner to it.
4. Dip the sponge in the mixture and use it to scrub the cell.
5. Rinse the cell with the garden hose to remove any remaining debris.
6. Use a pH testing kit to check the pH of the water.
7. If the pH is too high, add a pH reducer to the bucket and mix it in.
8. Dip the sponge in the mixture and use it to scrub the cell again.
9. Rinse the cell with the garden hose to remove any remaining debris.
10. Wipe the cell with a towel to remove any excess moisture.
11. Put the cell back in the pool and plug it into its power source.

Common Issues with Salt Cells

There are a few common issues that can occur with salt cells. The most common issue is a buildup of calcium carbonate, which can reduce the amount of chlorine that the cell produces. This issue can usually be resolved by cleaning the cell on a regular basis. Another issue is a buildup of debris, which can reduce the efficiency of the cell and can be resolved by cleaning it as well.

How to Tell if Your Salt Cell is Bad

If your salt cell is not functioning properly, there are a few signs that you can look for. One sign is a decrease in the amount of chlorine that the cell is producing. You can also check the cell for any visible signs of corrosion or damage. If you notice either of these signs, it’s best to replace the cell as soon as possible.

Tips on Maintaining Your Salt Cell

To keep your salt cell functioning properly and extending its life, there are a few maintenance tips that you should follow. First, make sure to clean the cell on a regular basis. This will help to keep it free of debris and minerals and ensure that it is producing an adequate amount of chlorine.

Second, make sure to check the pH of the pool water on a regular basis. High pH levels can cause the cell to corrode more quickly, so it’s important to keep the pH at the recommended level. Finally, make sure to inspect the cell for any signs of damage or corrosion and replace it if necessary.

Troubleshooting Issues with Your Salt Cell

If you’re having trouble with your salt cell, there are a few things you can do to try to troubleshoot the issue. First, make sure to check the cell for any signs of corrosion or damage and replace it if necessary. Second, make sure to check the pH of the pool water and adjust it if necessary. Third, make sure to clean the cell on a regular basis to keep it free of debris and minerals. Finally, if you’re still having trouble, it’s best to contact a professional for help.

Conclusion

Cleaning your pool salt cell is an important part of maintaining your pool’s chlorine generator system. It helps to keep your pool water clean and safe, and it can also help extend the life of the cell. In this blog article, I’ve explained what a salt cell is, why it needs to be cleaned, and provided step-by-step instructions on how to clean a Pentair and Hayward salt cell. I’ve also discussed some common issues with salt cells, how to tell if your salt cell is bad, and tips on maintaining your salt cell. Finally, I’ve provided some troubleshooting tips for any issues you may encounter with your salt cell.

If you take the time to properly maintain your salt cell, you’ll be sure to enjoy crystal clear swimming pool water for years to come.

If you need help with cleaning your salt cell or have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help!