Saltwater pool systems have become the preferred sanitation method for many pool owners due to their consistent chlorine production, softer water feel, and reduced chemical handling. At the core of these systems is the salt cell, the component responsible for converting dissolved salt into usable chlorine. When the salt cell reaches the end of its service life, pool water quality quickly deteriorates.
The Forested Upgraded IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator Replacement is designed as a direct replacement for the Pentair IntelliChlor IC40, offering reliable chlorination, modern usability features, and improved durability. This in-depth review explores how this replacement performs, how it compares to the original IC40 salt cell, and whether it is a smart investment for inground pools up to 40,000 gallons.
Overview of the Forested IC40 Salt Cell Replacement
The Forested IC40 replacement salt cell is engineered to match the specifications of the Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 while incorporating upgraded materials and enhanced internal components. It is designed for homeowners who want dependable performance without replacing the entire salt chlorine generator system.
This replacement targets pools that demand steady chlorine output during peak swim seasons while minimizing maintenance and operational effort.
Key Design Improvements and Construction Quality
Upgraded PE Protective Housing
One of the most notable features of the Forested IC40 salt cell is its upgraded PE material housing. This enhanced protective shell is engineered to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight, pool chemicals, and fluctuating outdoor temperatures. Compared to older salt cell designs, the reinforced housing reduces cracking, warping, and premature aging.
Extended Touch Interface Lifespan
The key touch interface has been redesigned to increase lifespan by up to three times. This improvement addresses a common failure point in aging salt cells, where buttons and control surfaces become unresponsive over time.
Clear LED Display and User Monitoring
The Forested upgraded IC40 salt cell features a clear LED display that allows pool owners to quickly assess system performance. The display provides immediate visibility into:
- Current salinity levels
- Chlorine output percentage
- Operational and diagnostic status
This real-time feedback helps prevent over-chlorination or under-chlorination, supporting better water balance and swimmer comfort.
APP Remote Control Functionality
Modern pool ownership increasingly demands convenience. This Forested IC40 salt cell supports APP-based remote control, allowing adjustments without physically accessing the equipment pad.
Benefits of Remote Control Access
- Adjust chlorine output from anywhere
- Monitor system performance remotely
- Respond quickly to changing weather or pool usage
- Ideal for vacation homes or rental properties
This feature brings added flexibility compared to traditional salt cells that rely solely on manual adjustments.
Chlorination Performance for 40,000-Gallon Pools
Advanced Electrolysis Technology
The Forested EC-520555 salt cell uses newly upgraded electrolysis technology designed to produce chlorine more efficiently and evenly. This improved process results in:
- Consistent sanitation output
- Reduced chlorine odor
- Fewer harsh chlorination by-products
- More comfortable water for swimmers
The system maintains stable free chlorine levels even during periods of heavy pool use.
Designed for Medium to Large Inground Pools
Rated for pools up to 40,000 gallons, this IC40 salt cell replacement is ideal for most residential inground pools. When properly sized and balanced, it delivers dependable sanitation comparable to original manufacturer equipment.
Low Maintenance Operation and Self-Cleaning Technology
Salt cells are prone to calcium scale buildup, especially in hard water regions. Manual cleaning can be time-consuming and, if done excessively, can shorten cell lifespan.
Auto Reverse Polarity Self-Cleaning
The Forested IC40 salt cell incorporates an automatic reverse polarity self-cleaning cycle. By periodically reversing electrical current flow, calcium deposits are reduced before they accumulate.
Maintenance Advantages
- Reduces manual cleaning frequency by up to 90 percent
- Extends average cell lifespan to 3–5 years
- Maintains consistent chlorine production
- Lowers long-term maintenance costs
This feature is particularly valuable for pool owners seeking a more hands-off sanitation solution.
Compatibility and Installation
Perfect Fit for Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 Systems
This Forested salt cell is a direct replacement for:
- Pentair IntelliChlor IC40
- Part numbers 520555 and EC-520555
The form factor, electrical connections, and flow requirements are designed to match the original IC40, allowing for straightforward installation without plumbing modifications.
Installation Experience
Most pool owners or technicians can complete installation in under 30 minutes using standard tools. The process involves removing the old salt cell and seating the replacement into the existing IntelliChlor system housing.
Product Specifications Table
The following table summarizes commonly listed product specifications for the Forested upgraded IC40 salt cell replacement.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Forested |
| Product Type | Salt Cell Chlorine Generator Replacement |
| Model Compatibility | Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 |
| Replacement Part Numbers | 520555, EC-520555 |
| Maximum Pool Size | Up to 40,000 gallons |
| Housing Material | Upgraded PE protective material |
| Display Type | LED status indicator |
| Control Options | On-unit controls and APP remote |
| Self-Cleaning | Automatic reverse polarity |
| Expected Lifespan | 3–5 years (usage dependent) |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
| Customer Support | 24/7 response availability |
Durability and Long-Term Value
Replacing an IC40 salt cell is often more economical than replacing an entire chlorination system. The Forested upgraded IC40 salt cell positions itself as a cost-effective alternative to original equipment while maintaining comparable performance.
Value Considerations
- Competitive replacement cost
- Reduced acid washing frequency
- Extended service life
- Stable chlorine output reduces strain on pool equipment
Over multiple seasons, these benefits can translate into meaningful savings.
Water Quality and Swimmer Comfort
Thanks to the upgraded electrolysis process, the Forested IC40 salt cell produces chlorine in a more controlled manner. This leads to:
- Softer-feeling water
- Reduced eye and skin irritation
- Less noticeable chlorine smell
Families with frequent swimmers often notice improved comfort compared to traditional chlorine dosing methods.
Support and Warranty Coverage
The Forested IC40 salt cell includes a 1-year warranty, providing assurance against manufacturing defects. Customer inquiries are typically answered within 24 hours, offering timely support for installation or performance questions.
This level of service is particularly beneficial for pool owners managing their own maintenance.
Ideal Use Cases
This upgraded IC40 salt cell replacement is well suited for:
- Residential inground pools up to 40,000 gallons
- Homeowners replacing expired IC40 salt cells
- Pools requiring consistent chlorine output during peak seasons
- Users seeking lower maintenance solutions
- Property owners who value remote monitoring and control
Advantages and Limitations
Advantages
- Direct-fit IC40 compatibility
- Upgraded protective materials
- Clear LED system display
- Remote APP control functionality
- Low maintenance self-cleaning design
- Designed for 40,000-gallon pools
Limitations
- Intended specifically for IC40 systems
- Performance depends on proper water chemistry balance
- Not compatible with IC20 or IC60 systems
Final Assessment
The Forested Upgraded IC40 Salt Cell Chlorine Generator Replacement delivers reliable sanitation performance, modern convenience features, and durable construction for pool owners using Pentair IntelliChlor IC40 systems. With efficient chlorine production, reduced maintenance requirements, and improved user monitoring, it offers strong value as a replacement solution.
For inground pools up to 40,000 gallons, this Forested IC40 salt cell stands out as a practical, dependable option that balances performance, longevity, and cost efficiency.