DIY Diagnosis for Salt Water Chlorinator Problems

The process of saltwater chlorination uses dissolved salt to produce chlorine. The salt chlorinator, also known as salt cell, salt generator, or chlorine generator, uses electrolysis in the dissolved salt to generate hypochlorous acid and sodium hypochlorite, which works as sanitizing agents for swimming pools. They have been rising in popularity with the pool owners because of affordability, ease of maintenance, and other benefits they offer.

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A salt chlorinator usually lasts 3-5 years, depending on the pool filtration system and other environmental factors. It requires periodic maintenance and repair to ensure optimum performance. But over time, saltwater chlorinator can develop issues leading to costly repairs. 

Signs that indicate that your system is not working include:

  • Low chlorine levels in the pool water

  • No Flow indication on the flow monitor

  • Corroded plates

  • Indicator lights signaling cell damage

When the saltwater chlorinator fails, it cannot produce enough chlorine to meet the swimming pool needs. This can result in the pool water turning dirty, leading to poor sanitation, algae formation, and corrosion in parts of the pool. 

There are three things to look for when you suspect any problem with the salt chlorinator- salt levels, calcium levels, and chlorine levels. Here is how you can diagnose why the saltwater chlorinator is not working correctly and if it needs repair or replacement:

Check power

The first step is to confirm that power is reaching the salt chlorinator control box. Make sure that the system is plugged into a GFI outlet, and the test button is not popped or tripped. The control panel has lights that indicate that the power is reaching the system. 

Water flow

The saltwater chlorinator needs a sufficient flow of water for effective operation. A dirty skimmer basket, clogged or dirty filter, and a clogged pump strainer, can cause insufficient water flow for the chlorinator to produce less chlorine. 

Salt levels

Use testing kits available in a local pool shop to test the salt levels of the pool. Check the manufacturer’s manual to know the required salt levels for your chlorinator according to the pool size. If you run the saltwater chlorinator without enough salt, it can damage the electrodes. Get the water tested by a pool service company that can advise you on the quantity of salt in the pool and other elements like pH, alkalinity, and calcium.

Chlorine levels

The factors that affect chlorine levels include the summer heat, poor filtration, sanitization, number of people using the pool, and the frequency of use. During a hot summer day, the chlorine levels can even drop by up to 90%. Check the free chlorine levels once a week and adjust the chlorinator accordingly.

Calcium levels

High calcium levels on the chlorinator cell can cause scaling on the electrodes and affect its functioning. Scale deposits are caused either by high calcium concentration, or high pH, high alkalinity. If you see scale build-up, clean the cell for optimal performance, and prevent permanent damage to the chlorinator cell. 

If you still feel that the saltwater chlorinator is having problems, assess the parts that need repair against the cost of buying a new saltwater chlorinator. A professional pool service company can help in identifying and fixing the problem to prevent further damage. They have water testing equipment to diagnose the pool water for any issues and know what exactly it requires to stay in excellent condition.