The Daily Insight
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How do I know if my chlorinator is not working?

Test the water that water has just left the chlorinator – it should have a very high chlorine reading. (Remember that if it is extremely high it may bleach the test tablet so you may have to dilute the water you are testing). If there is no chlorine reading, the chlorinator will not be working.

Why is my salt generator not producing 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.

What happens if salt level is too high in pool?

Having too much salt in your pool water can result in unnecessarily increasing chemical expenses. But having too little salinity restricts the amount of chlorine being generated and can lead to algae and bacteria growth.

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 should a pool chlorinator 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. *Always turn the pump off before you remove the baskets, if your pool pump is below water level you will need to close the valves in front of the pump and set the multiport valve on the filter to ‘closed’.

What to do if your salt chlorinator is not working?

Troubleshooting a Salt Chlorinator. First, check power. If your salt cell is plugged into an GFI outlet, make sure that the test button is not popped, or tripped. If your salt system is hardwired, variations in voltage could cause the controller to go a little haywire. Secondly, maintain the proper salt level in the pool.

How hard is it to install a chlorinator?

This is a little more complicated to install, but typically have fewer problems with hoses or fittings clogging. To install an in-line chlorinator, cut a small section out of the return line, and with the use of some plumbing fittings and PVC glue, the chlorinator is installed, preferably in contact with the ground.

Why is my chlorinator not showing the correct voltage?

There should be 3 wires going into the back of your chlorinator. It is well worth pulling them out, getting a bit of contact cleaner or a wire brish onto them and making sure they are clean. Your chlorinator isn’t showing a correct level because it’s not able to get a voltage back from the cells themselves.

Can I use another brand of chlorinator in my Pool?

If you do have another brand of chlorinator, it’s best to check the owner’s manual for the recommended salinity level. If you’re not sure just ask your local pool professional.