Salt Cell Failure / Low Chlorine Production
major severitycommonCall a proPro repair$300–$900LA-area, parts and labor
DIY cost$0–$0parts and supplies
Typical time1 hrfor a pro
Difficulty3 / 51 is easiest
What you'll notice
- Salt system error codes
- no chlorine generation despite proper salt level
- cell not producing chlorine
Likely causes
- Calcium buildup and calcification on cell plates
- age (3-5 year typical lifespan)
- power issues or bad control board
How to keep it from coming back
- Descale cell annually using cell cleaning cartridge
- maintain pH below 7.8
- replace every 3-5 years
Ranges are estimates; see How We Estimate. Affects: saltwater.
This is a job for a licensed pro, especially where electrical, gas or structural work is involved. If you're in the LA area, R.D. Pools offers free quotes.
Equipment involved
Maintenance that prevents it
Related costs
- Chlorine Tablets (3-inch, continuous feeding): $150–$400
- Salt (annual top-up): $100–$300
- pH Adjustment (muriatic acid or soda ash): $30–$100
- Alkalinity Adjustment (sodium bicarbonate): $20–$60
- Algaecide (preventative or treatment): $30–$100
- Salt Cell Replacement: $400–$1,200