Pentair 520555
Pentair IntelliChlor® Salt Cell Chlorine Generator User Manual
Model: IC40 (520555)
Product Overview
The Pentair IntelliChlor Salt Chlorinator is designed to produce all the chlorine a pool needs safely, effectively, and automatically, using common table salt. This system eliminates the need to buy, transport, and store chlorine compounds, offering a convenient and efficient solution for pool sanitation.
It features full diagnostic capabilities, including real-time cell life tracking, and captures daily performance data such as production settings, hours of operation, chlorine output, cell cleaning cycles, salt readings, and water temperature averages. Its push-button operation and easy-to-view displays simplify checking salt levels, cell cleanliness, sanitizer output, and water flow. An automatic shut-off feature protects the unit and prolongs cell life under low water temperature conditions, while on-time cycling prevents calcium and scale build-up.

Image: The Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator, a compact white unit with black connectors on either end, designed for inline installation in pool plumbing systems. It features a clear display panel on top showing various status indicators and control buttons.
Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the optimal performance and longevity of your IntelliChlor Salt Chlorinator. Follow these general steps:
- Unit Placement: Install the unit according to the provided instructions, ensuring it is correctly integrated into your pool's plumbing system.
- Salt Addition: Add common table salt to the pool water. The system will then use this salt to produce chlorine.
- Initial Monitoring: Monitor salt levels using the easy-to-view display on the unit. Ensure the unit is operating correctly by checking the LED indicators and push-button operation.
- Temperature Protection: The automatic shut-off feature protects the unit under low water temperature conditions, prolonging its cell life.
For detailed installation instructions, refer to the official installation manual provided by Pentair.
Operating Instructions
The IntelliChlor system is designed for user-friendly operation with its intuitive display and push-button controls:
- Salt Level Monitoring: The unit's display provides real-time salt level readings. The ideal salt level is 3400 ppm. Green indicates good salt levels, flashing green indicates high salt, and red indicates low salt, prompting you to add salt.
- Sanitizer Output Adjustment: Adjust the chlorine output using the "Less" and "More" buttons. The sanitizer output LEDs indicate the current production percentage (e.g., 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, 100%).
- Flow Status: A green "Flow" indicator confirms good water flow through the unit. A red indicator signifies no flow, which will prevent chlorine production.
- Boost Mode: To activate 100% output for 24 hours, press both "Less" and "More" buttons simultaneously. This is useful for periods of heavy pool use or when extra sanitization is needed.
- System Status: The display also shows the system status, including "Cold Water" (system off) and "Cell" status (green for good, flashing for inspect cell).
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and efficiency of your IntelliChlor system:
- Cell Cleaning: The unit features on-time cycling to prevent calcium and scale build-up. However, it is recommended to perform an acid clean every 3 months, or as indicated by the "Acid Clean" light on the display.
- Salt Level Checks: Regularly check the salt level using the unit's display to ensure it remains within the ideal range (3400 ppm). Add salt as needed.
- Flow Inspection: Ensure consistent water flow through the unit. A red "Flow" indicator suggests a blockage or pump issue that needs addressing.
- Cell Life Tracking: The system tracks and communicates remaining hours of cell life in real-time, allowing for proactive replacement planning.
Troubleshooting
While the IntelliChlor system is designed for automatic operation, occasional issues may arise. Here are some common scenarios and potential solutions:
- Low Salt Indication (Red "Low" Light): If the red "Low" light is on, it indicates that the salt level in your pool is below the recommended range. Add common table salt to the pool water until the "Good" salt level indicator turns green.
- No Flow Indication (Red "Flow" Light): A red "Flow" light means there is insufficient water flow through the chlorinator. Check your pool pump for proper operation, ensure all valves are open, and inspect for any blockages in the plumbing or filter. The unit will not produce chlorine without adequate flow.
- "Inspect Cell" Indication (Flashing "Cell" Light): If the "Cell" light is flashing, it suggests that the cell may need cleaning due to calcium or scale buildup. Perform an acid clean as described in the maintenance section. If the issue persists after cleaning, the cell may be nearing the end of its life.
- Cold Water Shut-off: The system automatically shuts off when water temperatures are too low to protect the unit and prolong cell life. This is normal operation and not a fault. Chlorine production will resume when water temperature rises.
- No Chlorine Production: If the unit is not producing chlorine, check the "Salt Level," "Flow," and "Cell" indicators. Ensure all are green. Verify the sanitizer output setting is not at "Min" or 0%. If all indicators are good and no chlorine is produced, consult the full user manual or contact customer support.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Pentair |
| Model Number | 520555 (IC40) |
| Product Dimensions | 7 x 17 x 7 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.317 ounces |
| Chlorine Production | Uses common table salt |
| Ideal Salt Level | 3400 ppm |
| Certifications | UL 1081 standard for safety, NSF approved |
| Compatibility | IntelliTouch, EasyTouch, and SunTouch automation systems |
| Cord Length | 15 feet |
Warranty and Support
The Pentair IntelliChlor Salt Chlorinator comes with a 60-day warranty when purchased online. For any issues or further assistance, please refer to the official user manual or contact Pentair customer support.
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