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WHY ISN’T

The chlorine level in my pool water registering or rising after turning on my I-PURE salt chlorine generator?

Solutions:

Please note that I-PURE uses a clear cell design. While the pump is running and the I-PURE is producing chlorine, you can verify the chlorine production by observing the water through the clear cell. The water should have small bubbles and have a hazy appearance as shown in the video. If a salt chlorinator cell is confirmed to be producing chlorine, but the pool's chlorine levels remain low, several factors could be at play. Here are the usual suspects:


  1. High Chlorine Demand:
    • Organic Contaminants: Heavy bather load, debris (leaves, pollen), or algae growth can consume chlorine faster than the cell produces it.
    • Environmental Factors: High temperatures, intense sunlight (UV), or rain can degrade chlorine or increase demand.
    • Solution: Test for combined chlorine (chloramines) and shock the pool with a non-chlorine oxidizer or liquid chlorine to eliminate organic matter.

  2. Improper Water Chemistry:
    • Low Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer): Cyanuric acid protects chlorine from UV degradation. Levels below 30 ppm (ideal: 30–50 ppm for salt pools) cause rapid chlorine loss.
    • High Phosphates: Phosphates (from fertilizers, cosmetics, or detergents) feed algae, consuming chlorine. Levels above 100 ppb can be problematic.
    • pH Imbalance: High pH (above 7.8) reduces chlorine’s effectiveness. Ideal pH is 7.4–7.6.
    • Solution: Test and adjust cyanuric acid, pH, and alkalinity. Use a phosphate remover if needed.

  3. Insufficient Cell Output or Runtime:
    • Undersized System: The chlorinator may be too small for the pool’s volume or demand.
    • Short Pump Runtime: If the pump runs less than 8–12 hours daily, chlorine production may not keep up.
    • Low Salt Levels: Salt below the recommended range (aim for 3,500–4,000 ppm) reduces cell efficiency.
    • Solution: Verify salt levels, increase pump runtime, or adjust chlorinator output. Check if the system is rated for your pool size.

  4. Cell Maintenance Issues:
    • Scaling or Deposits: Calcium buildup on the cell plates can reduce efficiency, even if it’s producing some chlorine.
    • Worn Cell: An aging cell (typically 3–5 years lifespan) may not produce enough chlorine.
    • Solution: Inspect and clean the cell with a mild acid solution (per manufacturer guidelines). Replace if nearing end of life.

  5. Testing Errors:
    • Faulty Test Kits: Expired reagents or inaccurate test strips can give false low chlorine readings.
    • Interference: High salt or other chemicals can skew some test methods.
    • Solution: Use a fresh, high-quality test kit or have water tested at a pool store.


  6. Algae or Hidden Contamination:
    • Early Algae Growth: Invisible or early-stage algae can consume chlorine rapidly.
    • Biofilm: Bacteria in plumbing or skimmers can deplete chlorine.
    • Solution: Brush and vacuum the pool thoroughly, shock it, and consider an algaecide.


Next Steps:

  • Test water for pH, cyanuric acid, phosphates, and salt levels. Salt Chlorine Generator operation raises the pH level of the pool.
  • Inspect and clean the cell.
  • Shock the pool to address organic demand.
  • Ensure adequate pump runtime and verify the chlorinator’s capacity.