how to clean intellichlor ic40

Daniel Parker

3 min read

·

23-01-2025

1

0

Share

Maintaining your Intellichlor IC40 salt water chlorine generator is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Regular cleaning ensures efficient chlorine production and prevents scaling, which can significantly impact its effectiveness. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process for cleaning your Intellichlor IC40 system. Remember to always consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions.

Understanding the Importance of Cleaning Your Intellichlor IC40

Your Intellichlor IC40 relies on a complex electrochemical process to generate chlorine. Over time, minerals in your pool water, such as calcium and magnesium, can build up on the cell plates. This scaling reduces the cell's efficiency, leading to lower chlorine production and potentially damaging the unit. Regular cleaning prevents this, extending the life of your system and ensuring your pool stays clean and properly sanitized.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

• Soft bristle brush: Avoid harsh brushes that could scratch the cell plates.
• Mild detergent: Use a non-abrasive, pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Garden hose with a spray nozzle: For rinsing the cell thoroughly.
• Clean cloths or sponges: For wiping down the cell.
• Protective gloves: To protect your hands from the chlorine solution.
• Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

1. Turn Off and Disconnect the Power: This is the most crucial step. Always disconnect the power to the Intellichlor IC40 before starting any cleaning procedure. Failure to do so could result in electric shock.

2. Remove the Cell from the System: Carefully remove the Intellichlor cell from its housing, following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Handle it gently to avoid damage.

3. Rinse the Cell Thoroughly: Use a garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle to rinse off any loose debris or scale from the cell's surface. This initial rinsing helps remove the bulk of the contaminants.

4. Prepare the Cleaning Solution: In a suitable container, mix a mild detergent solution with lukewarm water. Always refer to the detergent's instructions for the proper dilution ratio. Never use abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals.

5. Clean the Cell Plates: Using a soft bristle brush, gently scrub the cell plates, paying close attention to any areas with visible scaling or buildup. Avoid excessive scrubbing which could damage the plates.

6. Rinse Again: Thoroughly rinse the cell with clean water to remove all traces of the cleaning solution.

7. Inspect the Cell: Carefully inspect the cell plates for any signs of damage or excessive wear. If you notice significant damage, contact your pool professional or the manufacturer for replacement.

8. Reinstall the Cell: Carefully reinstall the clean cell into its housing, ensuring it is properly seated and secured.

9. Restore Power: Reconnect the power to the Intellichlor IC40 system.

10. Monitor Chlorine Levels: After cleaning, monitor your pool's chlorine levels closely to ensure the system is generating chlorine effectively.

How Often Should You Clean Your Intellichlor IC40?

The frequency of cleaning depends on several factors, including water usage, mineral content, and the amount of debris entering your pool. However, a general guideline is to clean the cell every 3-6 months, or more often if you notice a decrease in chlorine production or increased scaling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Low Chlorine Production: This might indicate scaling or a faulty cell. Clean the cell first. If the problem persists, consider a cell replacement.
• Error Codes: Consult your owner's manual for troubleshooting specific error codes displayed on your Intellichlor IC40 system.

By following these simple steps and performing regular cleaning, you can ensure your Intellichlor IC40 system continues to operate efficiently, keeping your pool clean, clear, and sanitized for years to come. Remember, preventing problems through regular maintenance is far easier than dealing with costly repairs later on.