QA

Question: How To Tell If Salt Water Generator Is Working

How do you know if your chlorinator is not working?

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.

How do I know if my salt cell is bad?

“Check salt” light on power center indicates problem but a routine water sample inspection shows salt levels are fine. Power center’s “Cell warning” light comes on and turns off after a cleaning but back on soon afterward. Voltage (higher than normal) and amperage (usually zero) level will show irregular readings.

Why is my salt system not generating chlorine?

Salinity. Chlorine generators need salt to produce chlorine and can’t do so if the amount of salt in the water is too low. The desired salinity level in a saltwater pool is between 2,500 and 3,500 ppm. If your salinity is below 2,500 ppm, the generator will not be able to produce chlorine.

Can too much salt damage a chlorinator?

Over-salting will not harm your chlorine generator, but it will lead to salty tasting water. If levels exceed 6500 ppm the chlorinator is programmed to protect itself by alerting the user that there are high salinity levels in the pool. To reduce the salt level, drain some water and refill the pool with fresh water.

How long do salt generator cells last?

This is all possible thanks to your pool’s salt chlorine generator cell. With proper care, a cell will last about five years. Eventually, though, it will need to be replaced.

How long does a Pentair salt generator last?

A well-maintained salt chlorine generator will last 3–7 years. Replacing the salt cell costs $700–$1100. Replacing the control board costs $500–$900. You can extend the lifespans by maintaining a consistent salt level, cleaning the cell only when needed, and using the reverse polarity function.

Why does my chlorinator says no flow?

The most common reason for low or no flow is that the baskets are full of debris. By checking and emptying both the skimmer basket (by the pool) and the pump basket (inside the pump) will free up the water flow, allowing the system to fully ‘prime’ and function at full capacity.

How long should I run my salt chlorinator?

The chlorine generator should be left running long enough to produce the amount of chlorine needed to sanitize the pool daily. On average, this takes between 8 and 12 hours depending on the pool size, type of saltwater generator, and the output level the chlorine generator has been set to.

How do I know if my Hayward salt cell is bad?

Signs of a Potential Problem The power center displays a Check Salt message. The Cell Warning light displays consistently, shutting off for only a short while after cleaning. Voltage is higher than normal. Amperage is irregular (it should normally be zero or just slightly above).

Why is my salt cell light blinking?

If the “Inspect Cell” light flashes by itself it is an early indication that the salt generator needs a manual reset. Each cell is equipped with 500 operational hours and requires a manual reset once it expires.

How do I reset my Aqua Trol salt generator?

To reset, turn the unit to Off and then back to Auto. Wait for the relay to click (5 to 10 seconds). Desired Output % Dial 1 to 100% sets the level of cell operation in % of operating time.. Example: 50% (factory default) cell is operating and generating chlorine 50% of the total pump/filter operating time.

How do I reset my Hayward salt Cell inspect cell?

Reset AquaRite Salt Chlorination Inspect Cell Light If the Inspect Cell Light is the only LED light flashing, then you can reset it by simply holding down the diagnostic button for 3 seconds, then release. The Inspect Cell indicator will now reset and will later come back on after another 500 hours of use.

At what temperature does a salt cell stop working?

In pool water temperatures that are 60 degrees or below, the salt generators simply shut down and by design do not allow the salt cell to ionize (breakdown) the salt and convert it to chlorine.

How often should I shock my saltwater pool?

Shock your pool once a week with Salinity Surge Shock or Salinity Oxidizing Shock. Pool shock works as an added defense against bacteria and contaminants. With Oxidizing shock, you can use your pool after just 15 minutes!.

Why does my salt water pool look cloudy?

Just like a chlorine-based pool, saltwater pools turn cloudy when chemicals are not balanced. You need to ensure that all chemicals are balanced all the time to avoid cloudy water and growth of algae. The major causes of cloudiness are chlorine, pH, Salinity, total alkalinity, cyanuric acid, and calcium hardness.

What ppm should my salt pool be?

The ideal salt level is between 2700-3400 ppm (parts per million) with 3200 ppm being optimal. Before adding salt to your pool, test the water to check your salt level.

How high is too high for salt in pool?

It is typically not as much of a problem if the salt level for a saltwater pool is too high. However, at very high levels – 5000 ppm and above – you will typically see issues arise, and your system may shut down. Avoid these issues by regularly testing salinity and maintaining the appropriate levels for your pool.

How often should you add salt to your pool?

Annual booster additions of pool salt are usually required, but only to replace salt lost from backwashing, splashout or lowering the water for winter. If you fully drain the pool for maintenance, you will need to replace all of the pool salt.

How often should I clean my chlorinator cell?

At the very least, your saltwater chlorinator should be cleaned twice a year, but you should inspect it every two months just to be sure. If it needs to be cleaned, clean it. If it doesn’t, then just give it a good rinse with a garden hose.

Can you use vinegar to clean a salt cell?

As a thumb rule, go for a mild solution with a perfect blend of water and vinegar. Soak the saltwater cell or hot tubs (as the case may be) in a container with vinegar solution for a night. The solution can remove all sorts of remaining debris within a fortnight.

Should I remove salt cell for winter?

While this can be true depending on your location, during the colder months you risk the potential of water damage due to freezing throughout your salt cell and equipment. Manufacturers will most likely advise you to remove, clean, and store the unit indoors to avoid any damage.