In order to prevent algae, you need to keep a balanced level of chlorine in your water at all times. If you have a salt cell, this is relatively easy—all you have to do is turn it on and it will produce chlorine on a regular basis.
But what happens when it stops working?
How to Tell if You’re Salt Cell Isn’t Working
For a salt cell to work, the pool needs to be at least 60-70 degrees and must have between 2800-3500ppm of salt. If your pool is warm enough and has enough salt and the cell isn’t producing chlorine, there’s something wrong with it.
Although the idea that your cell isn’t working is scary, it doesn’t always mean it needs replacing.
Here are a couple of reasons why your salt cell might not be producing chlorine:
It Needs Cleaning
After a certain amount of time, calcium builds up on the metal plates in the cell, preventing it from producing chlorine. So, it needs to be cleaned.
Around twice a year (usually once in the spring and once in the fall) you should clean your cell with Aqua Salt Cell Cleaner. This is an acidic solution that breaks down the calcium build up on these plates.
If you haven’t cleaned your cell in a while, it could be that it needs exactly that.
Cleaning is usually the first step in diagnosis a malfunctioning salt cell.
It’s Beyond the Expiry Date
Just like modern day lightbulbs, salt cell’s eventually burn out. A well-maintained salt cell typically lasts for up to 5 years—rarely beyond this.
So, if your salt cell isn’t working and it’s approaching the 5-year mark, odds are you’ll need to replace it.
If you’re having problems with your salt cell, talk to one of our pool experts at Valley Pool and Spa. We’re always happy to help you with all you’re pool needs!