9 Steps to Clean Your Salt Water Chlorinator Cell

If you're tired of constantly manually adding chlorine tablets to your pool, a saltwater pool might be just what you're looking for. Unlike traditional chlorine pools, a saltwater pool continuously breaks down salt into chlorine through electrolysis, which not only saves you money on purchasing chemicals but also offers a great self-maintenance process. However, maintaining a clean saltwater pool is of even greater importance compared to other types of pools. In this article, we will discuss how to clean a saltwater pool.

A clean salt water chlorinator cell can more effectively convert salt into chlorine, ensuring that the pool water is adequately disinfected. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms, maintaining the hygienic standards of pool water.

The salt water chlorinator cell can be affected by impurities in the water and mineral deposits, leading to decreased performance. By cleaning it regularly, these can be removed, keeping the salt water chlorinator cell in optimal working condition and reducing the frequency of repairs and replacements. Meanwhile, it can also alleviate the burden of pool skimmer s and other pool cleaners.

An efficient salt water chlorinator cell can produce enough chlorine to disinfect the pool water, reducing the dependence on additional chemicals. This means you can decrease the cost of purchasing and using disinfectants, pH adjusters, and other chemicals, while also helping to reduce environmental impact.

Cleaning the salt water chlorinator cell helps keep the pool water clean and clear. When the salt water chlorinator cell is functioning properly, it can effectively convert salt into chlorine, killing harmful microorganisms and algae in the pool water. This helps prevent the pool water from becoming turbid, foul-smelling, or developing other unpleasant odors, providing a healthier and more comfortable swimming environment.

Cleaning a pool's salt cell necessitates particular tools and materials to guarantee effectiveness. Having these items ready beforehand can make the process smoother.

• Screwdriver: Removing the salt cell from the system often requires a screwdriver. Depending on the screws, a flathead or Phillips screwdriver may be suitable.
• Bucket: A sturdy bucket is essential for holding the cleaning solution and the salt cell during the cleaning process.
• Muriatic Acid: For severe scaling, muriatic acid is a stronger cleaning agent. Always adhere to safety guidelines when using them, including wearing protective gloves and goggles.
• Hose: A garden hose is useful for rinsing the salt cell before and after cleaning, helping to remove loose debris and buildup.
• Brush: A brush with soft bristles is helpful for scrubbing algae and scale without damaging the salt cell's surface, or you can also use an effective  pool vacuum .

Before attempting to clean the salt water cell, it's crucial to turn off the power. For added safety, switch off the control panel as well. After that, unplug the salt cell from its power source.

Locate the salt water cell, which is typically found in a section of exposed piping that filters water back into the pool. To remove it, loosen the union nuts at both ends of the cell and twist it free. Shake off any excess water.

Inspect the salt cell for mineral deposits and rinse it with a garden hose to remove loose debris. This helps prepare the cell for a deeper clean.

Mix a cleaning solution using muriatic acid and four parts water. Always add acid to water to avoid a dangerous chemical reaction. Place the salt cell on a cleaning stand that allows it to stand upright. Then, set the entire setup inside a plastic bucket to catch any spills.

Pour the muriatic acid cleaning solution into the salt cell and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the bubbling and fizzing stop. This allows the solution to break down any mineral deposits.

Once the soaking time is up, carefully remove the salt cell and pour the solution into a bucket for safe disposal later. Rinse the cell thoroughly with fresh water from a garden hose to remove any remaining cleaning solution. Wear a mask and avoid inhaling any fumes. Handle the cell carefully to prevent spills or splashes.

After rinsing, inspect the salt cell to see if any mineral deposits remain. If so, rinse and soak it again until all deposits are removed.

What to Do If Your Chlorinator Cell Doesn't Require a Full Cleaning

After inspecting your chlorinator cell, you may find that it doesn't require a full cleaning. In this case, a simple rinse is often sufficient to maintain its performance.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Gather Your Supplies :

   • You'll need a garden hose with a spray nozzle.
   • Consider using protective gloves to handle the cell safely.

2. Rinse Thoroughly :

   • Use the garden hose to gently rinse off any superficial debris or buildup.
   • Ensure water flows through all the cell plates to remove loose particles.

3. Check For Any Remaining Debris :

   • Visually inspect the cell to ensure that any residue is washed away.
   • Make sure there are no obstructions impacting its operation.

4. Reassemble Carefully :

   • Once rinsed, reassemble the chlorinator ensuring all parts are securely fitted.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your chlorinator cell in optimal condition without the need for a full cleaning process. Regular maintenance checks will help ensure its longevity and effectiveness.

Reinstall the salt cell into the pool plumbing by twisting it back into place and tightening the union nuts. Turn the system back on and test the salt cell to ensure it's working properly.

Finally, dispose of the muriatic acid properly by contacting your local hazardous waste disposal service, solid waste authority, or pool store. Ensure you handle the acid responsibly and follow all safety guidelines.By following these steps, you can effectively clean your salt water pool cell, ensuring it operates efficiently and extends its lifespan.