Chlorinator Cell Failure
Diagnose and fix salt cell problems
Cell Failure Symptoms
⚠️ Production Issues
- • No chlorine production
- • Low chlorine despite runtime
- • Inspect cell light on
- • Low salt warnings
🔧 Cell Problems
- • Heavy scale buildup
- • Damaged plates
- • Cell age 3-7 years
- • Error codes displayed
Quick Answer
Salt chlorinator cells fail due to scale buildup, plate wear, or electronic issues. First, verify salt levels are correct (2700-3400 ppm) and test actual chlorine production. Inspect the cell for white scale deposits - if present, clean with muriatic acid solution. Cells typically last 3-7 years depending on maintenance. If cleaning doesn't restore production and the cell is over 5 years old, replacement is likely needed. Check warranty as some cells have 3-year coverage.
How Salt Chlorinator Cells Work
Cell Technology
- • Electrolysis: Converts salt to chlorine
- • Titanium Plates: Coated with precious metals
- • DC Current: Splits salt molecules
- • Reverse Polarity: Self-cleaning feature
- • Flow Sensor: Protects cell from no-flow
Cell Lifespan Factors
- • Water Chemistry: pH and calcium levels
- • Salt Level: Too high/low shortens life
- • Run Time: More hours = faster wear
- • Cleaning: Regular cleaning extends life
- • Cell Size: Oversized cells last longer
Expected Cell Life:
Salt cells typically last 3-7 years. Proper maintenance can double lifespan. Cells gradually lose efficiency - when production drops below 50%, replacement is needed.
Salt Cell Diagnosis Process
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Check Salt Level
Test actual salt level with strips or meter. Compare to system display.
Inspect Cell for Scale
Remove cell and look for white calcium buildup on plates.
⚠️ Warning: Turn off power before removing cell
Test Cell Production
With pump running, look for bubbles/chlorine smell at returns.
Check System Display
Note any error codes, salt readings, or warning lights.
Verify Water Flow
Ensure adequate flow through cell - check flow sensor.
⚠️ Warning: Low flow can damage cell from overheating
Test Cell Voltage
Check if control board sending power to cell during production.
⚠️ Warning: Requires electrical testing - use caution
Common Salt Cell Problems
Scale Buildup
Appearance:
White flaky deposits on plates
Effect:
Blocks current flow, reduces production
Solution:
Clean with 1:10 muriatic acid solution
Scale is the #1 cause of premature cell failure
Worn Coating
Signs:
Plates look dull or pitted
Cause:
Normal wear from electrolysis
Action:
Cell replacement required
Coating wear is irreversible - plan for replacement
Low Salt Errors
Display Shows:
Low salt but test shows normal
Indicates:
Cell wearing out, can't conduct properly
Verify:
Test salt with independent method
No Production
Check First:
Power to cell, flow sensor, salt level
If All Good:
Cell likely failed completely
Test:
Voltage at cell during operation
Board/Cell Mismatch
Problem:
Wrong cell for control board
Result:
Errors, no production, damage
Important:
Match exact model numbers
How to Clean Salt Cells
Cell Cleaning Procedure
Turn Off System
Switch off pump and chlorinator power
Remove Cell
Disconnect unions and carefully remove cell
Inspect Plates
Look for scale, damage, or worn coating
Mix Cleaning Solution
1 part muriatic acid to 10 parts water (ALWAYS add acid to water)
Soak Cell
Submerge plates for 5-10 minutes until bubbling stops
Rinse and Reinstall
Thoroughly rinse with hose, reinstall, check for leaks
Safety Precautions:
- • Always add acid to water, never water to acid
- • Work in well-ventilated area
- • Wear safety glasses and gloves
- • Never use metal tools on cell plates
Choosing Replacement Cells
Cell Sizing Guidelines
| Pool Size | Minimum Cell | Recommended | Extended Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 15,000 gal | T-Cell-3 | T-Cell-5 | T-Cell-9 |
| 15,000-25,000 gal | T-Cell-5 | T-Cell-9 | T-Cell-15 |
| 25,000-35,000 gal | T-Cell-9 | T-Cell-15 | T-Cell-15 |
| 35,000+ gal | T-Cell-15 | T-Cell-15 | Commercial |
OEM vs Generic:
OEM cells ensure compatibility and may have warranty. Generic cells cost 30-50% less but verify exact specifications match.
Oversizing Benefits:
Larger cells run at lower percentage, last longer, and handle high-demand periods better.
Salt Cell Service & Replacement Costs
Chlorinator Cell Costs
🔧 DIY Attempt
⚠️ Risks:
- • Purchasing wrong cell model
- • Improper installation causing leaks
- • Damaging control board connections
- • Voiding system warranty
- • Missing underlying system issues
👷 Professional Service
✅ Includes:
- • Complete system diagnosis
- • Cell testing and inspection
- • Professional cleaning if viable
- • Correct replacement cell selection
- • Installation with leak testing
- • System optimization and warranty
💰 Value Tip: CoOpPools offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Our worker-owned model means fair prices and invested service.
Extend Cell Life
Prevention Tips
Maintain Proper Salt Levels
Keep salt between 2700-3400 ppm as recommended by manufacturer
Clean Cell Quarterly
Inspect and clean with muriatic acid solution to prevent scale
Balance Water Chemistry
Proper pH and alkalinity prevent scale formation on cell
Run Pump Adequate Hours
Ensure enough runtime for chlorine production and cell longevity
Annual Professional Inspection
Have cell tested and system optimized yearly
🏊 Pro Tip: Regular professional maintenance prevents 90% of pool problems.Get your maintenance quote today
Need Professional Help?
Salt cell not producing chlorine? Our technicians are salt system experts who can diagnose cell problems, perform professional cleaning, and install the right replacement cell for your system. We stock cells for all major brands and ensure proper sizing for maximum lifespan. Don't let algae take over - restore your chlorine production today!
Mention "salt cell failure" when calling for faster service
Related Pool Problems
Related Pool Problems
Salt System Problems
Often RelatedGeneral salt system issues
Low Chlorine Levels
Often RelatedResult of cell failure
High pH Problems
Sometimes RelatedSalt systems raise pH
💡 Did You Know? Pool problems often occur together.Chlorinator Cell Failure can lead to or be caused by these related issues. Understanding the connections helps prevent future problems.