Introduction
Maintaining clean, balanced water in an in-ground saltwater pool requires a reliable salt chlorine generator that can operate efficiently day after day. When an original salt cell reaches the end of its lifespan, pool owners often look for a compatible replacement that delivers dependable chlorine production without the premium cost of original manufacturer parts. The CWDA IC40 EC-520555 Pool Salt Cell Chlorine Generator is designed to meet this need.
This detailed CWDA IC40 pool salt cell review examines how this replacement salt cell performs, how it compares to original equipment, and whether it is a suitable option for in-ground saltwater pools up to 40,000 gallons. The article includes accurate product data tables commonly found on Amazon listings, along with clear explanations of features, benefits, usage, and safety considerations.
What Is the CWDA IC40 Pool Salt Cell?
The CWDA IC40 EC-520555 is a replacement salt chlorine generator cell designed to be compatible with Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 systems, including automation setups. It is intended for in-ground saltwater pools and spas with water capacities of up to 40,000 gallons.
This salt cell converts dissolved salt in pool water into chlorine using electrolysis. Once installed and connected to a compatible IntelliChlor power center, it automatically produces chlorine based on system settings and pool demand. The CWDA IC40 is engineered to function similarly to the original IC40 salt cell, offering full diagnostic communication, self-cleaning capabilities, and high daily chlorine output.
Key Product Highlights
- Compatible replacement for Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 systems
- Designed for pools up to 40,000 gallons
- Produces up to 1.40 pounds of chlorine per day
- Titanium plates coated with Ruthenium
- Estimated 10,000-hour cell lifespan
- Full diagnostic and automation compatibility
- Self-cleaning electrolysis design
Product Specifications
The following table summarizes the key specifications of the CWDA IC40 EC-520555 Pool Salt Cell, based on commonly listed Amazon product data.
Product Data Table – CWDA IC40 EC-520555
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | CWDA IC40 Pool Salt Cell Chlorine Generator |
| Compatible Systems | Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 |
| Replacement Part Numbers | EC-520555, PAC-45-0555, 43-102-1320, EC520555, PAC-45-1555 |
| Pool Type | In-ground saltwater pools |
| Maximum Pool Size | Up to 40,000 gallons |
| Daily Chlorine Output | 1.40 pounds per day |
| Cell Plate Material | Titanium with Ruthenium coating |
| Estimated Cell Life | Up to 10,000 hours |
| Diagnostics | Full real-time diagnostic communication |
| Self-Cleaning | Yes |
| Application | Pools, spas, hot tubs |
How the CWDA IC40 Salt Cell Works
The CWDA IC40 salt cell operates using electrolytic chlorination. Pool-grade salt is dissolved into the pool water, creating a saline solution. As water flows through the salt cell, an electrical current passes across the titanium-coated plates inside the unit. This process converts chloride ions into free chlorine, which sanitizes the water by eliminating bacteria, algae, and other contaminants.
After sanitation, the chlorine naturally reverts back into salt, allowing the cycle to continue. This closed-loop process reduces the need for manually adding chlorine and helps maintain more consistent sanitizer levels.
The CWDA IC40 communicates directly with compatible IntelliChlor control systems, allowing real-time monitoring and automated adjustments.
Compatibility and Replacement Details
One of the most important considerations when choosing a replacement salt cell is compatibility. The CWDA IC40 EC-520555 is engineered to replace several common part numbers used with Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 systems.
Compatible Replacement Part Numbers
- EC-520555
- PAC-45-0555
- 43-102-1320
- EC520555
- PAC-45-1555
This wide compatibility ensures that the CWDA IC40 can be used as a direct replacement without modifying existing plumbing or control systems.
Full Diagnostic Capabilities
A key advantage of the CWDA IC40 salt cell is its ability to support full diagnostic communication with IntelliChlor automation systems.
Diagnostic Features Include
- Real-time cell life tracking
- Remaining cell life hours display
- Daily performance data collection
- Chlorine production monitoring
- Salt level readings
- Water temperature averages
- System run hours tracking
These diagnostics allow pool owners to proactively manage maintenance and address issues before they affect water quality.
Chlorine Production Performance
The CWDA IC40 is designed for high-performance sanitation. With a maximum output of 1.40 pounds of chlorine per day, it is suitable for medium to large in-ground pools.
Performance Benefits
- Consistent chlorine production
- Effective sanitation for high bather loads
- Reduced risk of algae growth
- Stable chlorine levels with automation support
This output level closely matches the performance expectations of original IC40 salt cells, making it a practical alternative for replacement.
Cell Construction and Durability
Titanium and Ruthenium Plates
The CWDA IC40 uses titanium plates coated with Ruthenium, a proven combination in salt chlorination technology. Titanium provides corrosion resistance, while the Ruthenium coating enhances conductivity and efficiency during electrolysis.
Expected Cell Lifespan
The manufacturer rates the CWDA IC40 for up to 10,000 operational hours. Actual lifespan depends on factors such as:
- Water balance
- Salt concentration
- Pool usage
- Pump run time
- Cleaning frequency
Proper water chemistry management plays a significant role in extending the life of any salt cell.
Self-Cleaning Function
The self-cleaning feature is an important convenience and maintenance benefit. The CWDA IC40 periodically reverses electrical polarity, helping to reduce calcium scale buildup on the cell plates.
Benefits of Self-Cleaning
- Reduces manual cleaning frequency
- Helps maintain consistent chlorine output
- Extends cell efficiency over time
- Minimizes scale-related performance issues
While self-cleaning reduces buildup, occasional inspection and cleaning may still be required in areas with hard water.
Benefits of the CWDA IC40 Pool Salt Cell
Automated Chlorine Production
Once installed, the CWDA IC40 automatically produces chlorine based on system settings. This reduces daily maintenance and ensures consistent sanitation without constant manual adjustments.
Cost-Effective Replacement Option
Replacing a salt cell is often more affordable than replacing an entire salt chlorination system. The CWDA IC40 offers a practical solution for extending the life of an existing IntelliChlor setup.
Improved Water Quality
Salt chlorination systems generally produce softer-feeling water with fewer chemical fluctuations. Benefits often include:
- Reduced eye and skin irritation
- Less chlorine odor
- More consistent water clarity
Seamless Integration with Automation
The CWDA IC40 works with IntelliChlor automation systems, making it easy to monitor performance and adjust settings through existing control panels.
Versatile Use
In addition to standard in-ground pools, the CWDA IC40 can also be used in compatible spas and hot tubs, provided system requirements are met.
Usage Guidelines
Installation Overview
The CWDA IC40 is designed as a direct replacement and typically installs into existing plumbing unions connected to the IntelliChlor system.
General installation steps include:
- Power down the pool system
- Remove the old salt cell
- Install the CWDA IC40 in the same orientation
- Connect the communication cable
- Restore power and verify system recognition
Professional installation may be recommended for users unfamiliar with pool equipment.
Daily Operation
During normal operation:
- The cell produces chlorine when water flows through it
- Output is controlled by the IntelliChlor system settings
- Diagnostics update automatically
Pool owners should periodically check system readings to ensure proper salt levels and water balance.
Seasonal Operation
For seasonal pool closures:
- Power down the system
- Remove and clean the salt cell if recommended
- Store according to manufacturer guidelines
Proper winterization helps protect the cell from freezing damage.
Safety Considerations
Electrical Safety
- Ensure the system is powered off before installation or maintenance
- Use only compatible power centers and connectors
- Avoid operating damaged equipment
Water Chemistry Safety
- Maintain recommended salt levels
- Keep pH, calcium hardness, and alkalinity balanced
- Avoid excessive scaling or corrosive conditions
Balanced water chemistry is critical for both safety and equipment longevity.
Operational Safety
- Do not operate the salt cell without proper water flow
- Follow pool capacity guidelines
- Keep control panels and electrical components away from children
Maintenance Tips
- Inspect the cell periodically for scale buildup
- Clean only when necessary and follow recommended procedures
- Monitor diagnostic indicators for performance changes
Consistent monitoring helps ensure reliable chlorine production throughout the swimming season.
Who Should Choose the CWDA IC40?
The CWDA IC40 Pool Salt Cell Chlorine Generator is well suited for:
- Owners of Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 systems
- In-ground pool owners up to 40,000 gallons
- Pool users seeking automated sanitation
- Those looking for a cost-effective replacement salt cell
- Pools requiring reliable daily chlorine output
It may not be suitable for pools exceeding the recommended size or systems outside IntelliChlor compatibility.
Final Thoughts
This CWDA IC40 pool salt cell review highlights a capable and efficient replacement option for IntelliChlor IC40 systems. With full diagnostic communication, strong chlorine production, durable construction, and self-cleaning technology, the CWDA IC40 offers dependable performance for in-ground saltwater pools up to 40,000 gallons.
For pool owners looking to maintain water quality while extending the life of their existing salt chlorination system, the CWDA IC40 presents a practical and performance-focused solution.