A saltwater pool can be a beautiful, soothing oasis for relaxation and enjoyment. The salt water chlorinator, often referred to as the “salt cell,” is the heart of a saltwater pool system. It uses electrolysis to produce chlorine from the dissolved salt in the pool, eliminating the need for traditional liquid or tablet chlorine. However, salt cells do wear out over time and need replacement. Upgrading to a new salt cell is quite straightforward if you understand the basic components and follow a step-by-step replacement guide. With a fresh new salt cell, your pool once again becomes the private luxury paradise you always imagined.
Understanding Salt Cells
Salt cells are an integral part of saltwater pools. They work by using electrolysis to convert the dissolved salt in the water into chlorine, which sanitises the pool. The cell has titanium plates inside that act as the anode and cathode to facilitate the electrolysis reaction with the saltwater flowing through them. Over time, the plates in the cell can corrode and need to be replaced, usually every 5-7 years, depending on usage.
Signs of a Failing Salt Cell
How do you know when it’s time to swap out your ageing salt cell? There are a few telltale signs to be on the lookout for:
- Increased algae growth
- Cloudy water even after shocking
- A visibly worn cell with scratched plates or calcium buildup
- Your test kit consistently shows zero chlorine left after a day or two
- Higher cell usage or increased salt level
If you notice one or more of these issues with your pool, it likely indicates an inefficient salt cell that isn’t producing enough chlorine.
Choosing the Right Replacement Cell
When it comes to picking out a new salt cell for replacement, you want one that is not only properly sized for your pool volume but also provides maximum efficiency. This means looking for quality construction and next-generation features:
- Optimal titanium plate coating for enhanced chlorine conversion
- Maximum surface area and precise plate spacing to improve flow
- Digital sensors to prevent over-chlorination
- Safety sensors to shut down on low salt or flow detection
Step-by-Step Salt Cell Replacement Guide
Installing a new replacement salt cell to revive your pool system is straightforward. Just follow these key steps:
- Turn off all power to pool equipment and drain excess water from the current cell.
- Disconnect the old cell’s wiring harness and unscrew it from the plumbing line.
- Prepare the plumbing and wiring for the new cell and test the fit alignment and gasket seal.
- Apply Teflon tape to plumbing fittings and securely screw in the new salt cell.
- Connect the wiring harness to the cell and control box.
- Power equipment back on and configure controls for a new cell. Set to proper output level.
- Balance water chemistry after 24 hours and confirm chlorine generation.
Final Thoughts
With a pool salt cell replacement, your backyard pool paradise will be sparkling clean and ready for carefree swimming all season long! The chlorine output will be maximised, so you don’t have to mess with any harsh chemicals. And you’ll save big bucks by avoiding cell replacement labour costs. Keep these salt cell replacement tips handy so you can keep your oasis in tip-top shape for years to come! Let the summer fun begin!
