Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Chlorinator Cell

Your pool’s chlorinator cell is the powerhouse behind clean, sanitised water. But like all equipment, it won’t last forever. The good news? A few smart maintenance habits can significantly extend its lifespan and help you avoid premature replacement costs.

What is a chlorinator cell?

A chlorinator cell is part of your saltwater chlorination system. It converts salt in the pool into chlorine through electrolysis, keeping your water clean and sanitised without the need to manually add chlorine.

These cells typically last 3–7 years depending on usage and care. Treat them well, and you’ll save hundreds on replacements.

1. Clean the cell regularly (but not too often)

A build-up of calcium or scale is the number one killer of chlorinator cells. Most units will alert you when it’s time to clean. Use a gentle acid wash (as per manufacturer guidelines), but avoid over-cleaning, which wears down the metal plates. Only clean when needed. Excessive cleaning does more harm than good.

2. Check salt levels often

If the salt concentration is too low or too high, your cell has to work harder – or might stop working altogether. Stick within the recommended range (usually 4000–6000 ppm, but check your model). Use a digital salt meter for accuracy. Test monthly in summer.

3. Maintain correct water chemistry

Unbalanced water causes scaling, corrosion and cell damage. Regularly test and balance:

• pH (ideal 7.2–7.6).
• Total alkalinity (80–120 ppm).
• Calcium hardness (200–400 ppm).

High calcium + high pH = scale build-up = trouble.

4. Run the pump for the right amount of time

Your chlorinator only works when your pool pump is running. If you’re running the pump too little, the cell doesn’t produce enough chlorine. Too much, and you’re shortening its life. Aim for 6–8 hours a day in cooler months, 8–12 hours in summer.

5. Turn off the chlorinator during winter

In colder months, your pool needs far less chlorine. Running your chlorinator at full power year-round burns through cell life unnecessarily. Reduce output to 10–20% in winter or turn it off and use liquid chlorine as needed.

6. Choose the right cell for your pool size

Oversized pools with undersized cells will burn them out fast. Make sure your chlorinator cell is correctly sized for your pool volume and usage. When in doubt, go slightly larger. It reduces strain and improves lifespan.

7. Get your pool equipment serviced

A yearly service helps catch issues early – like reduced chlorine output, low flow warnings, or wiring faults. This also gives you a chance to check on your pool pump and filter system.

Maximise the life of your chlorinator cell

Looking after your chlorinator cell not only saves money on replacements, but also helps ensure consistently clean, healthy water for your family and guests. A bit of proactive care each month can prevent bigger problems later on, keeping your entire pool system running smoothly. It’s one of the smartest maintenance moves you can make.

Chlorinator cells aren’t cheap, but they don’t need to be replaced often if you take care of them. Clean smart, monitor your chemistry, and run your system efficiently.

Need support or ready to upgrade?

Need help with chlorinator maintenance or upgrades? Contact our team or explore our full range of pool pumps and chlorinators online.