Maintaining a sparkling clean pool is a top priority for any pool owner, and that includes keeping your salt chlorine generator in tip-top shape. One important maintenance task for your Pentair iChlor is acid-washing the electrolytic cell. This process removes scale buildup that can hinder chlorine production and reduce your cell's lifespan.
Before you start, gather your supplies:
• Pentair iChlor Acid Cleaning Kit: This kit includes everything you need, including the adapter, stand, and funnel.
• Muriatic acid: Use a 31.45% muriatic acid solution. Always handle acid with caution and wear gloves and eye protection.
• Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from splashes and fumes.
• Rubber bucket: A 5-gallon bucket is ideal for mixing the acid solution.
• Garden hose: You'll need this to rinse the cell after cleaning.
Step-by-Step Guide to Acid Washing Your Pentair Salt System:
Turn off your pool system and disconnect the iChlor cell.
Remove the cell from the pool system plumbing. Consult your iChlor manual for specific instructions.
Attach the acid cleaning kit adapter to the cell. Make sure it's secure.
Mix the acid solution. In a well-ventilated area, slowly add one quart of muriatic acid to one gallon of water in the rubber bucket. Never add water to acid.
Stand the cell upright on the cleaning kit stand.
Carefully pour the acid solution into the cell until the blades are just covered.
Let the cell soak for 10-15 minutes. The solution will bubble as it dissolves scale buildup.
Neutralize the acid. After soaking, carefully pour the used solution into a separate container for disposal. Then, rinse the cell thoroughly with clean water using your garden hose.
Reinstall the cell and reconnect the iChlor to your pool system.
Turn your pool system back on.
Important Tips:
• Always wear safety glasses and gloves when handling acid.
• Work in a well-ventilated area.
• Never pour acid directly onto the ground or into a drain.
• Dispose of used acid solution properly. Check with your local authorities for specific instructions.
• Don't acid wash your cell too often. Once every three months is usually sufficient, unless you have hard water or see a significant decrease in chlorine production.
Following these steps will help you safely and effectively acid wash your Pentair iChlor cell and keep your pool sparkling clean all season long!
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