A salt system makes chlorine; it does not remove the need for testing or correct water chemistry. Salt targets, cell placement and wiring must match the exact model.
Specify the equipment and water
- Photograph pump, heater, automation and planned cell labels. Record verified pool gallons, surface type/age and measured existing salt.
- Ask the installer to select the rated cell and power/control system for the pool and expected demand. Verify compatible plumbing layout, flow sensing and interlocks in the actual installation manual.
- Confirm surface and other equipment compatibility before adding salt. New plaster or vinyl installations have manufacturer-specific startup restrictions.
Use a model-specific salt target
The legacy Pentair IntelliChlor IC15/20/40/60 guide recommends 3600 ppm and at least 99.8% pure sodium chloride with no additives. This is an example for those models, not an instruction for IntelliChlor Plus/LT, Hayward or Jandy systems. Test existing salt independently and use the correct manual’s chart; do not add a fixed bag count from estimated gallons.
Require commissioned safety controls
Electrical work and plumbing installation belong to a qualified installer. Confirm that the cell cannot generate without the required flow and that the system responds to loss of circulation. Do not bypass a flow switch or leave generation enabled during service.
Tune against actual chlorine demand
After salt is dissolved and startup conditions are met, set output and pump schedule using test results rather than a universal percentage. Record salt, sanitizer, water temperature, output setting and daily production period. Investigate low chlorine together with runtime, temperature, cell condition and water chemistry before replacing the cell.
Sources and scope
Documentation checked October 11, 2026. Manufacturer examples apply only to the named equipment; confirm your model and revision. This is homeowner assessment and planning guidance, not a claim that your equipment has been inspected.
- Pentair: IntelliChlor IC15/20/40/60 guide — Salt preparation, water chemistry and installation; not Plus/LT models
- CDC: Home pool water treatment and testing — Chlorine, cyanuric acid, pH and testing sections
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