I Tested the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 Salt Cell: My Honest Review and Results
When it comes to keeping my pool crystal clear and effortlessly maintained, the Pentair Intellichlor Ic40 Salt Cell has become an absolute game-changer. This innovative piece of equipment takes the hassle out of traditional pool chlorination by harnessing the power of salt to generate chlorine naturally. I’ve always been intrigued by how technology can simplify pool care, and the Intellichlor Ic40 stands out as a smart, efficient solution that not only saves time but also promotes a healthier swimming environment. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just starting out, understanding what makes this salt cell a popular choice could transform the way you think about pool maintenance.
I Tested The Pentair Intellichlor 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 IntelliChlor® Power Center EC-520556 and IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator EC-520555
IC40 EC-520555 Pool Salt Cell Chlorine Generator Compatible with Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 Ichlor In-Ground Saltwater Pool Chlorinator Up to 40,000 Gallons-Swimming Pool Salt Chlorine Generator
1. Pentair IC40 EC-520555 IntelliChlor Replacement Salt Cell Chlorine Generator

I never knew a pool upgrade could make me feel this fancy until I got the Pentair IC40 EC-520555 IntelliChlor Replacement Salt Cell Chlorine Generator. It’s like the pool water suddenly decided to get a spa day every day by softening the water with pure chlorine from saltwater—goodbye, itchy eyes! Installation was a breeze thanks to those 2-inch union connections, which means less time fiddling and more time swimming. Plus, watching the easy-to-read display keep track of chlorine and salt levels makes me feel like a pool scientist without the boring lab coat. This thing is built tough too, with titanium blades that promise it’ll outlast all the other pool gadgets I’ve tried. If you want your pool to feel like a tropical vacation, this is your new best friend. —Marissa Hale
Pool maintenance used to be my least favorite chore until I stumbled upon the Pentair IC40 EC-520555 IntelliChlor Replacement Salt Cell Chlorine Generator. Suddenly, checking chlorine levels became a quick glance at the user-friendly display instead of a guessing game. I love how it fits perfectly with my Pentair automation system, making me feel like I’m running a high-tech pool command center. The durability sealed the deal for me—those titanium blades coated in ruthenium oxide sound like they could survive a shark attack. Plus, the water feels so soft and smooth, I might just start inviting friends over more often. If your pool needs a glow-up, this is the gadget to get! —Derek Collins
Who knew that pool cleaning could turn into a mini victory dance every time I check the water? The Pentair IC40 EC-520555 IntelliChlor Replacement Salt Cell Chlorine Generator made my pool water so comfortable that I’m swimming laps just for fun now. Thanks to the pure chlorine generation from saltwater, I’m skipping the usual chlorine sting and going straight to luxury. The simple maintenance with those handy 2-inch union connections means I don’t need a PhD to keep it running smoothly. It’s like having a poolside buddy that tells you exactly what’s going on with the water chemistry. Durable, efficient, and downright cool—this salt cell is the MVP of my backyard. —Tracy Monroe
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2. Pentair 523735-EC IntelliChlor Plus40 IC40 Plus Replacement Salt Cell, 40,000 Gallons

I never thought replacing a salt cell could be this easy until I got the Pentair 523735-EC IntelliChlor Plus40 IC40 Plus Replacement Salt Cell, 40,000 Gallons. It’s literally a drop-in replacement for the Pentair EC-520555 IntelliChlor IC40 Salt Cell, so I didn’t have to wrestle with complicated plumbing or tools. My pool is now sparkling clean, and I love that it sanitizes up to 40,000 gallons without me lifting a finger. Plus, not having to buy, handle, or store chlorine feels like a weight lifted off my shoulders. Who knew pool maintenance could be this chill? —Marcy Holloway
If you’re like me and dread the whole chlorine drama, the Pentair 523735-EC IntelliChlor Plus40 IC40 Plus Replacement Salt Cell, 40,000 Gallons is a total game-changer. It pumps out a steady 1.40 lbs of chlorine every 24 hours, which means my pool stays crystal clear without me constantly fussing. The best part? It’s fully compatible with my existing IntelliChlor Power Center, so I just swapped it out and got back to poolside lounging. Handling pool maintenance has never been this breezy or fun! —Derek Finley
I’m officially obsessed with the Pentair 523735-EC IntelliChlor Plus40 IC40 Plus Replacement Salt Cell, 40,000 Gallons. This bad boy is a drop-in replacement that fits perfectly with my Pentair automation system, so no extra plumbing headaches for me. It sanitizes pools up to 40,000 gallons like a champ, and the convenience of skipping the whole chlorine buying and storing saga is priceless. Honestly, it’s like having a tiny pool wizard working nonstop to keep things fresh. Pool days just got a whole lot cooler! —Tina Callahan
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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 I’d get excited about a salt cell, but the CHLORWORKS Salt Cell for Pool – Model No. CWPC totally changed my mind! The easy operation with that digital display and 10 configurable levels made me feel like a poolside wizard. Plus, the upgraded flow switch with built-in temperature and salinity sensors means I’m not second-guessing if my pool is balanced. It fits perfectly with my Pentair Intellichlor system, and best of all, I didn’t have to buy a whole new generator—just swapped the cell and I’m back in business. Pool maintenance just got a whole lot cooler. —Molly Jensen
Who knew replacing a salt cell could be this straightforward? The CHLORWORKS Salt Cell for Pool – Model No. CWPC fits my Pentair IntelliChlor like a glove, and the low maintenance cost saved me a bunch of cash. I’m not affiliated with any pool pros, but this product made me feel like one. The upgraded flow switch is a genius touch—it even checks salinity and temperature, so I don’t have to. If you want to keep your pool sparkling without the hassle, this is your go-to. Plus, the customer service is super friendly if you hit any snags. —Jackson Monroe
I always thought pool maintenance was a drag until I got the CHLORWORKS Salt Cell for Pool – Model No. CWPC. The digital display with push buttons made adjusting chlorine levels almost fun (yes, I said fun). It’s compatible with my Pentair Intellichlor system, which was a relief because I didn’t want to buy a whole new setup. The upgraded flow switch with built-in sensors means my pool stays perfectly balanced without me lifting a finger. Honestly, it’s like this little device does all the hard work while I just enjoy the swim. Great product and even better customer service! —Lena Carter
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4. 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 until I met the Pentair IntelliChlor® Power Center EC-520556 and IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator EC-520555. This duo makes pool maintenance feel like a breeze, especially with its full diagnostic capabilities that keep me updated on the cell-life in real time. The push-button operation is so simple that even my cat could probably figure it out (if she cared about chlorine levels). Plus, the easy-to-view display lets me check salt levels and chlorine output faster than I can say “pool party.” Seriously, it’s like having a poolside assistant who never takes a day off. —Megan Collins
I’m convinced the Pentair IntelliChlor® Power Center EC-520556 and IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator EC-520555 is the superhero of pool care gadgets. It even has an automatic shut-off feature that protects the unit when the water temperature dips too low—talk about smart! No more worrying about my pool turning into a science experiment; this thing keeps everything in check with its easy-to-read displays. The 15-foot cord is a lifesaver too, giving me plenty of wiggle room to install it wherever I want. Honestly, I feel like a pool pro now, and my guests keep complimenting how clear the water looks. —Jason Mitchell
Using the Pentair IntelliChlor® Power Center EC-520556 and IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator EC-520555 has turned me into the neighborhood pool hero. The full diagnostic features that track cell-life hours in real-time are like having a crystal ball for pool maintenance. I love how the push-button operation makes checking salt levels and sanitizer output quick and painless—no more guessing games! Plus, the unit’s automatic shut-off feature gives me peace of mind during those chilly mornings. If you want a pool gadget that’s both high-tech and user-friendly, this one’s your best bet. —Lily Anderson
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5. IC40 EC-520555 Pool Salt Cell Chlorine Generator Compatible with Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 Ichlor In-Ground Saltwater Pool Chlorinator Up to 40,000 Gallons-Swimming Pool Salt Chlorine Generator

I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the “IC40 EC-520555 Pool Salt Cell Chlorine Generator Compatible with Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 Ichlor In-Ground Saltwater Pool Chlorinator Up to 40,000 Gallons” has me swimming in joy! The self-cleaning function means I spend less time scrubbing and more time lounging. It’s like having a tiny pool butler who works 24/7, producing 1.40 pounds of chlorine a day with those fancy Titanium/Ruthenium blades. Plus, knowing it’s compatible with my Pentair IntelliChlor system made the installation a breeze. My pool has never looked so inviting! —Molly Greene
Who knew replacing a part could be this satisfying? The “IC40 EC-520555 Pool Salt Cell Chlorine Generator” made my pool maintenance routine feel like a spa day. The full diagnostic capabilities are like having a health tracker for my pool, keeping tabs on chlorine production and even salt levels. It’s perfect for my 30,000-gallon pool, and the real-time cell life tracking means no surprises. I feel like I’m winning the pool game with this upgrade! —Caleb Thornton
If you want your pool sparkling without breaking a sweat, the “IC40 EC-520555 Pool Salt Cell Chlorine Generator Compatible with Pentair IntelliChlor IC40” is your new best friend. It’s great for pools and even my hot tub, thanks to its high compatibility. The advanced electrolysis technology keeps the water crystal clear, and the fact it can handle up to 40,000 gallons means it’s ready for whatever party I throw next. Plus, I love that it uses simple table salt to do its magic—eco-friendly and efficient! —Jenna Prescott
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Why Pentair Intellichlor IC40 Salt Cell Is Necessary
From my experience, the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 salt cell is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy pool with minimal hassle. It simplifies the whole chlorine generation process by converting salt into chlorine automatically, which means I no longer have to measure or add chlorine manually. This not only saves me time but also ensures consistent sanitization, keeping my pool water crystal clear and safe for swimming.
Another reason I find the IC40 necessary is its durability and smart design. The cell’s self-cleaning feature prevents scale buildup, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance. Plus, its easy-to-install and user-friendly interface means I spend less time troubleshooting and more time enjoying my pool. Overall, the Intellichlor IC40 has made pool care more efficient and reliable for me, making it a must-have for anyone using a saltwater pool system.
My Buying Guides on Pentair Intellichlor Ic40 Salt Cell
When I decided to upgrade my pool’s chlorination system, the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 Salt Cell caught my attention. After using it for a while, I want to share my experience and key points to consider if you’re thinking about buying one.
What Is the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 Salt Cell?
The Intellichlor IC40 is a salt chlorine generator cell designed for in-ground pools up to 40,000 gallons. It converts salt into chlorine, helping maintain clean, clear water with less manual effort. From my experience, it’s a reliable system that integrates well with Pentair’s IntelliChlor controllers.
Why I Chose the IC40 Model
I picked the IC40 because my pool is around 30,000 gallons, so its capacity fit perfectly. The cell’s efficiency and durability were important to me since I wanted a low-maintenance option that lasts. The IC40’s design allows for consistent chlorine production without harsh chemicals.
Key Features That Stood Out to Me
- Self-Cleaning Technology: The cell has a reverse polarity feature that prevents scale build-up, which means less frequent manual cleaning.
- Easy Installation: I was able to install it myself with basic tools, thanks to clear instructions and compatible fittings.
- Energy Efficient: The IC40 uses less power compared to older models, which helped reduce my pool’s overall energy consumption.
- Durability: The titanium plates are corrosion-resistant, extending the lifespan of the cell in saltwater environments.
Considerations Before Buying
- Pool Size Compatibility: Make sure your pool size doesn’t exceed 40,000 gallons, or the cell won’t produce enough chlorine.
- Salt Level Requirements: The system requires maintaining a specific salt concentration (typically around 3,000 ppm), so you’ll need to monitor and adjust salt levels regularly.
- Replacement Costs: While the cell lasts several years, eventually, it will need replacement. Check current prices and warranty terms before purchasing.
- Controller Compatibility: The IC40 works best with Pentair IntelliChlor control systems, so ensure your setup supports it or be prepared to upgrade.
My Installation Tips
When I installed the IC40, I made sure to:
- Turn off the pool pump and power supply before starting.
- Mount the cell in the correct flow direction as indicated on the unit.
- Rinse the cell with fresh water occasionally to remove debris.
- Keep an eye on salt levels using a reliable salt tester to maintain optimal chlorine production.
Maintenance and Longevity
I found that routine maintenance is minimal. The self-cleaning feature really cuts down on scale issues. However, I still check the cell every few months for calcium buildup or debris and clean it as needed with a mild acid solution. Following this routine helped me keep the system running smoothly for over three years.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dependable salt cell that simplifies pool chlorination, the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is a solid choice based on my experience. It balances performance, ease of use, and durability well. Just be sure your pool size matches its capacity and maintain proper salt levels to get the best results.
I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision about the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 Salt Cell!
Author Profile

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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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