🧂 Everything You Need to Know About Pentair Salt Cells
Care | Maintenance | Troubleshooting | Video Guides
Saltwater pools are known for their silky-smooth feel and easier chemical management, and Pentair’s salt systems—like the Intellichlor and iChlor—are among the most popular in the industry. If you're using a Pentair salt system, keeping it well-maintained ensures your pool stays crystal clear, energy-efficient, and trouble-free.
Below is a deep dive into how to operate, adjust, maintain, and troubleshoot Pentair salt cells, including helpful video links for visual learners. 👇
✅ Understanding Pentair Salt Cell Models
Pentair offers a few salt cell types, but the most common are:
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Intellichlor IC20/IC40/IC60
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iChlor 15 & iChlor 30
The number refers to the maximum chlorine output (in thousands of gallons). For example, IC40 is rated for up to 40,000 gallons.
⚙️ How to Adjust Your Pentair Salt Cell Output
Intellichlor (IC20/40/60):
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Adjustment is done directly on the cell or through automation systems like EasyTouch or IntelliTouch.
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Settings are in 20% increments (20/40/60/80/100%) and 2% increments (2/4/6/8/10%). Percentage lights are solid when in the 20% increments and flashing when in 2% increments. The best % for your pool depends on your pool size and usage, we would recommend 20-60% to start then adjust based on your chlorine readings.
📺 Video Guide – Manual Operation:
🔗 20/40/60 Operation Overview
📺 Video Guide – Adjusting via EasyTouch:
🔗 Adjusting with EasyTouch
iChlor:
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Digital display and "+" or "–" buttons allow for more granular control in 1% increments.
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Descriptive icons show when it's producing chlorine or needs attention.
📺 Video Guide – iChlor Operation:
🔗 iChlor Overview
🛠️ Routine Maintenance for Salt Cells
Like any piece of equipment, your salt cell needs regular TLC:
✔ Weekly:
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Check chlorine level using test strips or a digital meter.
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Confirm salt level is within manufacturer’s range (usually 3000–3400 ppm).
✔ Monthly:
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Visually inspect the cell for scaling or debris.
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Look for error lights or warning indicators.
✔ Every 3 Months:
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Remove cell and inspect cell plates.
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Descale using a mild acid solution if buildup is visible.
📺 Video Guide – Cleaning the Intellichlor Cell:
🔗 Cleaning IC20/40/60
📺 Video Guide – Maintaining & Descaling iChlor:
🔗 iChlor Maintenance
💡 Pro Tip: Always turn off your pump and disconnect power before removing the salt cell.
🧪 Troubleshooting & Diagnosing Common Salt Cell Issues
Common problems and what they usually mean:
| 🔴 Symptom | ❓ Possible Cause | 🛠️ Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Low chlorine | Output too low / water temp too cold / dirty cell | Adjust % output, clean cell, ensure water > 60°F |
| “Low Salt” light | Salt is actually low or sensor error | Test salt levels; if normal, recalibrate or inspect cell |
| “Cell Missing” | No power or cell disconnected | Check power connections and control panel wiring |
| No chlorine even at 100% | Cell may be scaled or failing or chlorine at 0/Chlorine Demand | Establish chlorine reading with Liquid Chlorine; Clean or replace cell if over 3–5 years old |
📺 Video Guide – Diagnosing IC20/40/60:
🔗 Diagnosing Salt Cell Issues
🔗 Salt Cell Not Displaying Any Lights
🧼 How to Clean Your Pentair Salt Cell (Descaling Steps)
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Turn off all power to the system.
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Remove the cell from the plumbing.
- Use Acid Washing Kit
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Use a 4:1 water-to-muriatic-acid mix.
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Soak the cell vertically for 5–10 minutes.
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Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
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Reinstall and restart the system.
🔗 Cleaning Guide – Intellichlor
🔗 Cleaning Guide – iChlor
🧠 Need Help or a Replacement Cell?
Whether you need service, want to test your water, or think it's time to replace your salt cell, we’ve got you covered. Premier Pool & Spa stocks Pentair parts and offers full salt system diagnostics.
🔧 👉 Book Service Appointment
📬 👉 General Questions? Contact Us Here
📍 Your pool’s salt system is the heart of your water care routine. Keep it running right, and you’ll spend less time troubleshooting and more time enjoying your pool.
