Salty de Luxe P4/P6 Professional Saltwater System

1. Product Range

The Salty de Luxe product line offers professional saltwater systems for swimming pools. The available models are:

* Valid for private swimming pools.

Each model is supplied with a specific electrolysis cell suited to the pool volume. Larger systems can be provided upon request.

2. Salt Electrolysis Principle

Saltwater chlorination utilizes the principle of electrolysis. Salt (NaCl) dissolved in pool water, when passed between two electrodes carrying a direct current, undergoes a chemical reaction. This process generates sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), which then forms hypochlorous acid (HClO) in water. Hypochlorous acid is a powerful oxidizing agent that effectively disinfects the water by destroying bacteria, viruses, and algae.

The key advantage is that the chlorine compounds are converted back into salt after their disinfecting action, meaning salt is not consumed in the process. The system comprises an electrolysis cell and an electronic control unit that converts the standard 220V AC power supply into the necessary low-voltage DC current for the cell.

3. Important Information Before Installation

What NOT to Do:

• Do Not connect the Salty de Luxe to 380 Volts.
• Do Not operate the unit immediately after adding salt; wait 24 hours for the salt to dissolve completely.
• Do Not clean the cell with hard objects (e.g., brushes, screwdrivers) or overly concentrated acid solutions (maximum 10% hydrochloric acid).
• Do Not wait until the cell is completely scaled before cleaning, as this can cause damage.
• Do Not clean the cell while the Salty de Luxe is operating.
• Do Not shorten the cell cable.
• Do Not operate the unit if the salt content is too low (minimum 0.3%, equivalent to 3 kg per 1,000 liters of water).
• Do Not use food-grade or animal feed salts.
• Do Not operate the unit without ensuring adequate water flow through the cell housing.
• Do Not open the Salty de Luxe control and power supply unit. It contains no user-serviceable parts, and opening it voids the warranty. Any associated risks are borne by the owner.
• Exercise caution with metal parts; consult your specialist.

What TO Do:

• Only switch on the Salty de Luxe when the filter pump is also running.
• Install the cell in the pool's return line, after any other equipment such as a heat exchanger or pH regulator.
• Use only refined salt (vacuum or industrial salt) or sea salt.
• Switch on the Salty de Luxe only after the salt has completely dissolved in the water.
• Regularly check the water's salt content.
• Monitor the water's chlorine content and adjust the Salty de Luxe's production and filter run time accordingly.
• Regularly check the pool's pH value; it should be between 6.9 and 7.4 for optimal water quality and disinfection effectiveness.
• To maintain optimal water quality, it is recommended to adjust the filter run time based on water temperature and pump performance.
• Switch off the Salty de Luxe before operating the 6-way valve (e.g., for backwashing). You can switch the unit back on once water flow through the cell is guaranteed.
• Ensure the position of the cell housing and the electrodes inside are correct.
• If you previously used PHMB-based disinfection products, renew the pool water and filter sand (for sand filters).
• If you need to extend the cell cable, contact your pool specialist dealer.
• Have electrical connections performed by a certified electrician.
• Exercise caution with metal parts; consult your specialist.

4. Device View

The device features a control and power supply unit. Key components include:

• OFF/ON Switch: To turn the unit on or off. It is recommended to switch the unit off when performing maintenance on the 6-way valve.
• Fuse: Equipped with a protected 3 Ampere automatic safety fuse. The fuse can be reset by pressing the fuse button.
• Polarity Indicator: For the 'Self-Cleaning' model, this light indicates polarity reversal for cell cleaning. The light is on during the plus phase and off during the minus phase. This is not an indicator of a malfunction.
• Scale Setting Dial: Allows adjustment of the polarity reversal cycle based on water hardness. 'Normal' position: 6-hour reversal cycle. 'High' position: 4-hour reversal cycle. An LED indicates 'High Limescale' when this position is selected.
• LED Display: Shows the chlorine production level as a percentage of the unit's maximum capacity. For example, if the SC P4 (max 15g/hr) has 6 LEDs lit (60%), it produces approximately 9g/hr.
• Chlorine Production Adjustment: Use the '+' and '-' buttons to increase or decrease chlorine production according to pool needs or specific situations, such as temporarily increasing output during periods of high bather load.
• Pool Cover Connection: Allows connection to an automatic pool cover or roller shutter. When the cover is closed and connected, the Salty de Luxe reduces chlorine production by 50%. This function is active only when the cover is connected via a potential-free contact.
• Cell Connection Socket: Located on the underside of the unit, providing access without needing to open the device. This socket connects the electrolysis cell to the control and power supply unit.

5. The Salty de Luxe in Detail

Electrolysis Cell:

The electrolysis cell inserts easily into the transparent cell housing. A pin on the cell's base must align with a corresponding recess in the housing for correct installation. The electrodes are made of titanium coated with high-quality materials. Each model includes a cell sized appropriately for the pool volume.

Sensor (Water Level Sensor):

This sensor, shaped like a small metal tongue, is located on the side of the electrodes. It must always be positioned above the electrodes. Its function is to automatically shut off the Salty de Luxe if the water level in the cell housing becomes insufficient.

Transparent Cell Housing:

This housing contains the electrolysis cell. It comes with 50mm reducers to adapt the housing to standard 50mm pipe diameters.

6. Installation Instructions

Cell Installation:

It is recommended to install the electrolysis cell no more than 1.5 meters from a wall to facilitate easy mounting of the Salty de Luxe control and power supply unit. The cell should be installed horizontally (or vertically if necessary) in the return line to the pool, positioned slightly higher than the filter system. The cell housing must be mounted to allow for easy removal and cleaning of the electrolysis cell (e.g., by installing ball valves before and/or after the housing). The cell housing should be the last component installed in the return line, following the pool heater, pH regulator, or other equipment, but before any division of the return flow. The water level sensor must be positioned above the electrodes.

Salty de Luxe (Control and Power Supply Unit) Installation:

Mount the Salty de Luxe unit on a wall, no more than 1.5 meters away from the cell and at least 1 meter above the ground. Secure the mounting bracket to the wall, then attach the Salty de Luxe unit to the bracket. If installing the unit in a technical shaft behind the pool, ensure the shaft is adequately ventilated to prevent condensation buildup, which can damage the unit and void the warranty.

Cell Connection:

Connect the cell cables to the corresponding socket on the Salty de Luxe unit. The cables are color-coded to prevent incorrect connections. Ensuring a correct connection is crucial for the Salty de Luxe to function properly.

7. Installation Schema

The installation schema illustrates the typical plumbing configuration for the saltwater system. Water flows from the pool, through the filtration system, potentially passing through a heat exchanger and pH regulator, before entering the Salty de Luxe cell housing. After passing through the cell, the treated water returns to the pool. Ball valves are typically installed before and after the cell housing to allow for isolation during maintenance. The control unit is mounted separately on a wall, connected to the cell via its cable.

8. Before Commissioning

Recommended Salt Quantity:

Your pool water should contain approximately 4 grams of salt per liter of water (0.4%), which is equivalent to 4 kg of salt per 1,000 liters of water. Add the salt directly to the swimming pool. The Salty de Luxe should only be switched on after the salt has completely dissolved, which typically takes about 24 hours.

Operating Time of the Salty de Luxe:

For every 10,000 liters of pool water, the Salty de Luxe should operate for approximately 1 hour per day at 60% power (indicated by 6 illuminated LEDs). For example, a 40,000-liter pool would require about 4 hours of operation per day, preferably split into two intervals (morning and evening). The operating time and chlorine production will vary depending on the pool size, location (sunny vs. shaded), climate, bather load, and water conditions. For instance, if the water temperature increases, the operating time of the Salty de Luxe should also be increased. For indoor pools without direct sunlight, the operating time is approximately 1-2 hours per day.

Setting the Timer:

A timer is not included with the unit. It is best to purchase one from an electrical supply store or connect the Salty de Luxe to an existing filter control system. Before commissioning the Salty de Luxe, set the desired operating times and duration. Ensure the timer is set to the correct current time of day.

Important Note:

The Salty de Luxe must only be switched on when the filter pump is running and water flow through the cell housing is guaranteed (ball valves before and after the cell housing must be open). Operating the Salty de Luxe with closed ball valves can cause damage to the cell and will void the warranty.

Stabilizer:

It is recommended to add a stabilizer to the pool water to help preserve the produced chlorine. The ideal stabilizer level in the pool is between 40 and 50 ppm. Consult your pool specialist dealer for more information.

9. Commissioning

Turn on the Salty de Luxe using the 'ON/OFF' switch. The LED display will then indicate the chlorine production in percentage. Use the chlorine production adjustment knobs to regulate the output based on your pool's needs or specific situations, such as temporarily increasing production when there is a high number of bathers.

10. Production Control

You should regularly monitor the level of disinfectant in your water. Chlorine levels can be measured using a standard analysis kit. The ideal chlorine level in a pool is between 0.5 and 1.0 mg/l. Ensure that the chlorine value remains within the specified range.

ATTENTION: Continuous over-chlorination can lead to damage to your pool (e.g., corrosion, fading) and is not covered by warranty.

Water Temperature:

This section explains the relationship between the Salty de Luxe's disinfectant production and your pool's water temperature. The system produces more disinfectant in warmer water than in colder water, even with the same salt content. Therefore, it is important to regularly check the production output of your Salty de Luxe unit.

11. The pH Value of Your Pool Water

The pH value significantly impacts pool water quality in two main ways: bather comfort and disinfection effectiveness.

Firstly, regarding comfort, the pH of human skin is close to 7 (neutral). Therefore, pool water is most comfortable for swimmers when its pH value is close to the skin's natural pH. An ideal pH range for bather comfort is between 6.9 and 7.4.

Secondly, the pH value directly influences the effectiveness of water disinfection, particularly with salt electrolysis. Maintaining the ideal pH range (6.9 to 7.4) is crucial to prevent issues like cloudy water or algae growth. Your pool's pH level will change over time, so regular monitoring and adjustment using commercial pH-plus or pH-minus products are necessary.

12. Salt Content

Your Salty de Luxe is equipped with a reliable regulation system that allows you to set the salt content from 0.3% up to 3.5% (seawater levels). Operating the system with a salt content below 0.3% is detrimental to its proper functioning and can cause damage to the electrolysis cell.

The salt is not consumed by the Salty de Luxe unit, nor does it evaporate. The salt content in the pool naturally decreases over the season due to filter backwashing, water splashing out by bathers, and draining excess water (e.g., after heavy rainfall). Therefore, it is important to monitor the salt content regularly. To avoid frequent checks, it is recommended to add a slightly larger amount of salt than specified at the beginning of the season (e.g., 4-5 kg per 1,000 liters) to create a safety margin. Salt content can be checked using various methods, such as color test strips or electronic testing devices.

13. Maintenance of the Salty de Luxe (Control and Power Supply Unit)

Approximately every 3 months, check that the connections in the socket for the cell cable are securely tightened. If necessary, tighten them with a Phillips head screwdriver.

Maintenance of the Electrolysis Cell:

Your Salty de Luxe features a self-cleaning system for the electrolysis cell. However, the sensor or electrodes can still become scaled, particularly if the water has a high pH value. Regular inspection and, if necessary, cleaning of the cell are therefore required. The rate of scaling depends on water quality (e.g., pH value).

Cell Cleaning Procedure:

1. Prepare a bucket with 9 parts water and 1 part 30% hydrochloric acid.
2. Turn off the Salty de Luxe and the filter pump.
3. Close the water supply to the cell.
4. Unscrew the cell cap and carefully remove the electrolysis cell from the housing. Place the cell into the prepared bucket.
5. Leave the cell in the solution for approximately 20 minutes.
6. Remove the cell and repeat the process if it is not yet clean.
7. Once the cell is clean, carefully reinsert it into the cell housing, ensuring the correct orientation.
8. Screw the cell cap back onto the housing.
9. Open the water supply to the cell.
10. Turn on the filter pump and the Salty de Luxe again.

Ensure the cleaning solution is mixed correctly. Do not use objects like brushes or screwdrivers for cleaning the cell, as this will damage the electrode coating and void the warranty.

Lifespan of the Electrolysis Cell:

The electrolysis cell is constructed from titanium with a high-quality material coating. This coating gradually wears down during electrolysis. The lifespan of the electrolysis cell is dependent on operating hours, water quality, salt content, and maintenance practices. With proper care, the electrolysis cell will achieve its optimal lifespan.

14. Winterizing

Empty the cell housing. Remove the Salty de Luxe (control and power supply unit) and the electrolysis cell from their installation location. Store the unit and the cell in a dry room at room temperature (e.g., a cellar) during the winter months, ensuring the temperature remains at least 8°C.

15. User Responsibilities

Before contacting customer service, please read this instruction manual carefully and check the following points, which are your responsibility:

• The electrical supply is connected and functioning.
• The unit has been installed according to the installation instructions.
• The 'OFF/ON' switch is in the correct position.
• The chlorine production is set correctly.
• The chemical composition of the pool water is adequate (salt content, pH value, etc.).
• The cell is clean.
• There is sufficient water flow through the cell housing.
• The cell housing is completely filled with water.
• The fuse is intact.

16. Service Handling

Do not send the unit back to us independently; please contact our service center first. If your claim is not justified under the warranty/guarantee terms, any costs incurred will be charged. Steinbach VertriebsgmbH handles all service operations (repairs, spare parts) for your product. Returns are not possible; please contact your dealer where you purchased the product.

17. Disposal

Packaging Disposal:

The packaging materials have been selected according to environmentally compatible and disposal-technical aspects and are therefore recyclable. Dispose of cardboard and paper with waste paper, and plastics with plastic recycling collections.

Product Disposal:

This product is applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems for recyclable materials. Dispose of the product in accordance with the regulations and laws applicable in your locality. Old appliances must not be disposed of with household waste. If the unit can no longer be used, every consumer is legally obligated to dispose of old appliances separately from household waste, for example, at a collection point in their municipality or district. This ensures that old appliances are recycled properly and negative environmental impacts are avoided. Therefore, electrical appliances are marked with the symbol shown here [Recycling Symbol Placeholder].

18. Warranty

The statutory warranty provisions applicable in the respective countries apply.

19. CE Conformity Declaration

The EU Declaration of Conformity can be requested from the address provided at the end of this manual.