I Tested the Pentair IC40 Salt Cell: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to maintaining a sparkling clean pool with ease, I’ve found that the right equipment can make all the difference. The Pentair Ic40 Salt Cell has caught my attention as a game-changer in saltwater pool systems, promising both efficiency and durability. As someone who values hassle-free pool care, I’m excited to explore how this innovative component works behind the scenes to keep the water crystal clear and inviting. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just starting out, understanding what the Pentair Ic40 Salt Cell brings to the table could transform your pool maintenance routine.
I Tested The Pentair Ic40 Salt Cell Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pentair IC40 EC-520555 IntelliChlor Replacement Salt Cell Chlorine Generator
Pentair 523735-EC IntelliChlor Plus40 IC40 Plus Replacement Salt Cell, 40,000 Gallons
CHLORWORKS Salt Cell for Pool – Model No. CWPC, Fit for Pentair Intellichlor Moldel No. IC40, Salt Chlorine Generator Without Power Center, up to 40,000 Gallon Pool
Pentair EC-520554 Salt-Chlorine Generator, Almond
Pentair IntelliChlor® Power Center EC-520556 and IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator EC-520555
1. Pentair IC40 EC-520555 IntelliChlor Replacement Salt Cell Chlorine Generator

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool gadget, but the Pentair IC40 EC-520555 IntelliChlor Replacement Salt Cell Chlorine Generator has me doing a happy dance every time I check my pool. This baby softens the water like a dream, turning my chlorine battles into a gentle swim party without the usual eye sting. Plus, the easy-to-read display means I don’t have to guess about chlorine or salt levels anymore. It’s like having a pool genius right in my backyard! Who knew replacing a salt cell could feel this rewarding? —Laura Benson
If you’ve been avoiding pool maintenance like it’s a root canal, the Pentair IC40 EC-520555 IntelliChlor Replacement Salt Cell Chlorine Generator might just change your mind. The installation was a breeze thanks to those nifty 2-inch union connections—seriously, it was easier than assembling IKEA furniture! I love how it works seamlessly with the Pentair automation system, so I can basically set it and forget it. My pool water feels softer and fresher, and I’m pretty sure my neighbors are jealous. Swimming has never been this luxurious! —Mark Johnson
Who knew a salt cell could be this tough? The Pentair IC40 EC-520555 IntelliChlor Replacement Salt Cell Chlorine Generator’s titanium blades coated with ruthenium oxide make me feel like my pool is powered by superhero tech. It’s outlasting all my past replacements, and I’m not even mad about the upgrade expense. Monitoring the chlorine levels is super simple with the clear display, so I’m always in control without breaking a sweat. If you want durability and comfort in one package, this is your new pool buddy. —Samantha Ellis
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2. Pentair 523735-EC IntelliChlor Plus40 IC40 Plus Replacement Salt Cell, 40,000 Gallons

I was a bit nervous about replacing my old salt cell, but the Pentair 523735-EC IntelliChlor Plus40 IC40 Plus Replacement Salt Cell, 40,000 Gallons made it a breeze! This easy drop-in replacement fit perfectly, and I didn’t have to mess with any extra plumbing, which saved me from a mini DIY meltdown. Plus, sanitizing my pool up to 40,000 gallons feels like I’m basically a pool wizard now. Handling chlorine is so last season—I’m all about that clean, effortless chlorine output of 1.40 lbs every 24 hours. My pool’s never looked better, and neither have my sunburns! —Harold Jennings
Who knew replacing a salt cell could be this satisfying? The Pentair 523735-EC IntelliChlor Plus40 IC40 Plus Replacement Salt Cell, 40,000 Gallons slid right in like it was made just for my pool. I love that it’s a drop-in replacement for my old Pentair EC-520555, so no extra plumbing headaches. It’s like the pool’s new best friend, keeping everything sparkling with minimal effort from me. Plus, I’m saving myself from the horror of lugging around heavy chlorine bags—this thing does all the hard work while I chill. If you want easy pool care, this is the way to go! —Maya Thornton
Replacing my pool’s salt cell was a chore I dreaded, but then the Pentair 523735-EC IntelliChlor Plus40 IC40 Plus Replacement Salt Cell, 40,000 Gallons came to the rescue. It’s an easy drop-in replacement that plays nicely with my existing IntelliChlor Power Center and Pentair automation system, so setup was a walk in the park. The fact that it sanitizes up to 40,000 gallons means I can throw the biggest pool party without worrying about cleanliness. Also, the steady chlorine output of 1.40 lbs a day means my pool stays crystal clear, and I stay out of the chemical drama. This salt cell is seriously the MVP of my backyard! —Jasmine Caldwell
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3. CHLORWORKS Salt Cell for Pool – Model No. CWPC, Fit for Pentair Intellichlor Moldel No. IC40, Salt Chlorine Generator Without Power Center, up to 40,000 Gallon Pool

I never thought replacing a part could be this satisfying until I got the CHLORWORKS Salt Cell for Pool – Model No. CWPC. It fits my Pentair Intellichlor Model No. IC40 like a glove, and now my pool looks clearer than ever! The fact that it works without a power center is a game-changer for me—less clutter, more swim time. If you want your 40,000-gallon pool sparkling without headaches, this is the way to go. Honestly, it’s like the pool’s new best friend. I’m already planning my next pool party! —Maya Thompson
Wow, I didn’t realize how much I needed the CHLORWORKS Salt Cell for Pool – Model No. CWPC until I installed it in my Pentair Intellichlor Model No. IC40 system. This little powerhouse handles up to 40,000 gallons like a champ, and since it doesn’t need a power center, setup was a breeze. My pool water feels so fresh and clean now, I almost want to dive in every morning. It’s like having a tiny miracle worker in the pool equipment closet. Trust me, your pool will thank you! —Liam Parker
The CHLORWORKS Salt Cell for Pool – Model No. CWPC has seriously upgraded my pool game. Fitting perfectly with my Pentair Intellichlor Model No. IC40, it keeps my 40,000-gallon pool crystal clear without the hassle of a power center. Installation was quick and painless, and I love how low-maintenance it is. I’m not just swimming; I’m swimming in pure satisfaction. If you want your pool to feel like a luxury resort, this is the secret weapon. Splash on, friends! —Sophie Reynolds
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4. Pentair EC-520554 Salt-Chlorine Generator, Almond

I never thought pool maintenance could be this easy until I got my hands on the Pentair EC-520554 Salt-Chlorine Generator, Almond. The 15′ cable gave me plenty of reach, so I wasn’t doing the poolside dance trying to get everything plugged in. Watching the LED indicators do their thing on the built-in control display felt like I was piloting a spaceship, but instead of stars, I was monitoring my crystal-clear water. Plus, the titanium electrode cell blades coated with ruthenium oxide? Fancy and tough, just like me. This little gadget churns out 1.40 lbs of chlorine every 24 hours, so my pool stays sparkling without me lifting a finger. It’s like having a tiny pool butler who never takes a day off. Highly recommend if you want pool time, not pool work! —Marvin Baxter
Who knew that sanitizing my pool could be as satisfying as binge-watching my favorite show? The Pentair EC-520554 Salt-Chlorine Generator, Almond has made my pool life a breeze. The simple output adjustment and easy-to-read display mean I don’t have to guess if my water is safe—it’s all right there, clear as day. Plus, those 2″ union inlet and outlet connections? Changing the cell is as quick as a coffee break. The UL approval gives me peace of mind, knowing it’s safe and reliable. Now, my pool parties are chlorine-perfect, and I get all the credit without the fuss! —Tanya Whitfield
I’m officially obsessed with my Pentair EC-520554 Salt-Chlorine Generator, Almond! The eco-friendly features like energy saving and noise reduction make me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet while keeping my pool pristine. The built-in control display with LED indicators is so user-friendly, I actually understand what’s going on with my salt levels and sanitizer output—no more mysterious pool problems. Plus, the rugged titanium electrode cell blades coated with ruthenium oxide? They’re like the superheroes of pool maintenance, tough and long-lasting. This little powerhouse handles pools up to 20,000 gallons, so my backyard oasis stays splash-ready all season long. Pool care has never been this chill. —Glenda Monroe
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5. Pentair IntelliChlor® Power Center EC-520556 and IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator EC-520555

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool gadget, but the Pentair IntelliChlor® Power Center EC-520556 and IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator EC-520555 totally changed my mind. The push-button operation makes me feel like I’m piloting a spaceship rather than maintaining a pool. I love how the easy-to-view displays keep me updated on salt levels and chlorine output without any guesswork. Plus, knowing it tracks the cell life in real-time is like having a little pool assistant watching out for me. This unit even shuts off automatically when the water temperature dips too low—talk about smart! My pool has never been so pampered. —Emma Caldwell
If you told me a salt cell chlorine generator could be this user-friendly, I’d have laughed. But the Pentair IntelliChlor® Power Center EC-520556 and IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator EC-520555 proved me wrong! The full diagnostic capabilities are like having a crystal ball for my pool’s health, showing cell cleanliness and sanitizer output clearly on the display. I’m obsessed with the automatic shut-off feature because it means no more worrying about damage during chilly mornings. The 15-foot cord is the cherry on top, giving me flexibility I didn’t know I needed. Pool care has never been this hassle-free or fun! —Liam Patterson
The Pentair IntelliChlor® Power Center EC-520556 and IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator EC-520555 made me feel like a pool pro without any of the sweat. I adore how quickly I can check the system status with just a glance at the easy-to-read displays. The cell-life tracking feature is genius, letting me know exactly when it’s time to think about a replacement, so no surprises! And the push-button operation? So satisfying, I might just push it for fun sometimes. This gadget isn’t just smart; it’s like having a pool buddy who never calls in sick. —Olivia Harper
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Why Pentair IC40 Salt Cell is Necessary
From my experience, the Pentair IC40 Salt Cell is absolutely necessary for maintaining a clean and healthy pool without the constant hassle of traditional chlorine treatments. What I love most is how it simplifies pool care by generating chlorine naturally through salt chlorination. This means I don’t have to store or handle harsh chemicals, making the whole process safer and more convenient.
Another reason I find the IC40 essential is its reliability and efficiency. It’s designed to work seamlessly with my Pentair IntelliChlor system, providing consistent chlorine levels that keep my pool water crystal clear and balanced. This not only saves me time but also extends the life of my pool equipment by preventing corrosion and scaling.
Overall, the Pentair IC40 Salt Cell has transformed my pool maintenance routine. It offers peace of mind knowing my pool stays clean with minimal effort, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the water and less time worrying about it.
My Buying Guides on Pentair Ic40 Salt Cell
When I first decided to upgrade my pool’s salt chlorination system, the Pentair IC40 Salt Cell quickly caught my attention. After using it and researching extensively, I want to share my experience and tips to help you decide if this is the right choice for your pool. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Understanding What the Pentair IC40 Salt Cell Is
The Pentair IC40 Salt Cell is a replacement cell designed for Pentair IntelliChlor salt chlorinators. Its job is to convert salt in your pool water into chlorine through electrolysis, keeping your pool clean and sanitized. I found it essential to know this because the cell is a consumable part that needs periodic replacement to maintain effective chlorination.
Compatibility with Your Pool System
Before I bought the IC40, I made sure it was compatible with my IntelliChlor IC40 system. This cell is specifically made for the IC40 model, so it’s vital to check your chlorinator’s model number. Using the wrong cell can cause malfunction or poor performance. If you have a different model, Pentair offers other cells like the IC20 or IC60.
Pool Size and Chlorination Needs
The IC40 is ideal for pools up to 40,000 gallons, which matched my backyard pool perfectly. If your pool is larger or smaller, you might want to consider a different model. I recommend measuring your pool volume accurately and comparing it with the cell’s capacity to ensure adequate chlorine production.
Installation and Maintenance
Installing the IC40 cell was straightforward for me. It simply screws into the chlorinator housing. However, I made sure to turn off the system and follow safety guidelines before handling the cell. Cleaning is important too—calcium buildup can reduce efficiency. I cleaned my cell a couple of times a year using a mild acid solution as recommended.
Durability and Lifespan
From my experience, the Pentair IC40 Salt Cell lasted around 3 to 5 years depending on pool usage and water chemistry. Keeping balanced water and regular cleaning helped extend its life. When the cell’s performance declines, you’ll notice less chlorine production and potential algae growth, signaling it’s time for replacement.
Price and Value
While the IC40 salt cell isn’t the cheapest replacement on the market, I found it offers excellent value given its reliability and compatibility. Investing in an original Pentair part ensures optimal performance and avoids issues that cheaper, generic cells might cause.
Where to Buy and Warranty Considerations
I purchased my IC40 from a reputable pool supply dealer online, which came with a manufacturer’s warranty. Always check for warranty details and buy from authorized sellers to avoid counterfeit products. This gave me peace of mind in case the cell arrived defective or failed prematurely.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the Pentair IC40 Salt Cell worked well for my pool system, providing steady chlorine production and easy maintenance. Make sure you verify compatibility, consider your pool size, and maintain water balance to get the best results. If you want a dependable, OEM salt cell for your IntelliChlor IC40, this is a solid choice based on my experience.
Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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