Keeping your swimming pool water pristinely clear goes beyond just appearance; it’s about protecting the health and safety of everyone who wants a pleasant swimming experience.
That’s why salt water chlorinators are so important.
These common devices are used in pools to sanitize the water, removing dangerous bacteria and algae.
This detailed guide delves into the fundamentals of pool chlorination.
What is a pool chlorinator cell?
A pool chlorinator cell, also called a salt cell, is made up of electrodes coated in a catalytic metal like ruthenium, iridium, or titanium. These metals can trigger a chemical reaction known as electrolysis when an electrical current passes through them.
By installing the cell in-line and running pool water over the electrodes, the chlorinator cell produces chlorine from ordinary table salt dissolved in the water.
Over time, a scale composed primarily of calcium carbonate accumulates on the electrodes. If left unchecked, the scale buildup eventually prevents chlorine generation.
Where does the calcium scale come from?
Calcium scale comes from two sources – your pool water and the mortar between brick or stone coping. \
As pool water evaporates, minerals like calcium and magnesium become more concentrated. Additionally, mortar and plaster used in pool finishes gradually dissolve, releasing more calcium, alkaline minerals, and salts into the water.
As these mineral concentrations rise, scale begins to form on all wet surfaces – especially the salt cell electrodes.
What are the effects on water quality when a salt cell becomes calcified?
Reduced chlorine production – The presence of scale functions as an electrical insulator, compelling the chlorinator to exert more effort for equivalent chlorine production. As the scale thickness increases, the chlorine output diminishes steadily, eventually reaching a point where virtually no chlorine is generated.
Increased power bills – Due to the scale buildup, the efficiency of the cell decreases, which may waste energy to maintain your desired chlorine ppm.
Premature cell failure – Ultimately, scale blocks flow channels completely and the chlorinator fails catastrophically. Under conditions of inadequate maintenance, the average lifespan of the cell is only 2-3 years.
Fortunately, with consistent care, a quality chlorinator cell often lasts 5 years or more before needing replacement.
What are the steps for cleaning and maintaining a salt cell?
Calcium deposits aren’t going to go away on their own. If not removed, they can make your pool unsuitable. Here are the steps you need to follow.
- Remove the cell from the chlorinator housing and inspect for flow blockages and thick-scale deposits. Note approximately how many electrodes are still exposed to metal to gauge cleaning progress.
- Fill the bucket with cell cleaner according to the label directions. For particularly stubborn deposits, you may need to use a calcium remover first.
- Immerse the cell fully in the cleaning solution. Let it soak for a minimum of 6 hours, up to 24 hours for heavy buildup. Periodically wipe the electrodes gently with a soft brush or plastic scraper to help dissolve the scale.
- Rinse the cell thoroughly with fresh water to remove all residues.
- Reinstall the cell in the plumbing line, reconnect wires, and restore the power supply.
- Monthly cleanings may now be required to prevent rapid re-scaling.
Wrapping Up
Keep your salt chlorinator cell free of performance-robbing scale and it will keep your water sparkling all season long.
Stay vigilant with testing and cleaning, and your cell could even last for years