Thread: Pool Chlorinator experts - anyone ?

So my question is - how do I tell if its the complete unit, or if its just the cell that has stopped working ? There are power leads that run to the cell but my multi meter is only registering a very low voltage there , but I assume it wouldn't need much anyway.

The output from the controller is usually between 6 to 12 volts DC, most commonly around 9 volts DC. Disconnect the cell and check what voltage there is between the 2 leads without the load on it. This should tell you if the problem is the controller or the cell. They draw around 25 amps when new but will deteriorate over time. Controllers also fail, mostly caused by spikes on the AC supply line, but also excessive heat.

Originally Posted by Old Farang

The output from the controller is usually between 6 to 12 volts DC, most commonly around 9 volts DC. Disconnect the cell and check what voltage there is between the 2 leads without the load on it. This should tell you if the problem is the controller or the cell. They draw around 25 amps when new but will deteriorate over time. Controllers also fail, mostly caused by spikes on the AC supply line, but also excessive heat.

Thanks for the reply, So is as simple as connecting a 12v battery to test if the cell plates work ?


Cheers Ean

Originally Posted by Ean Austral

Thanks for the reply, So is as simple as connecting a 12v battery to test if the cell plates work ?
Cheers Ean

Arh, NO, do not try that! The controller output is electronically regulated to match the load / current required. A battery will just see the cell as a dead short and probably light up like it IS Guy Fawkes night!

Originally Posted by Old Farang

Arh, NO, do not try that! The controller output is electronically regulated to match the load / current required. A battery will just see the cell as a dead short and probably light up like it IS Guy Fawkes night!

Ok no worries , cant get much voltage reading at the ends of the leads that go to the cell so assume the unit is knackered. Thanks for your replys.


Cheers Ean

Originally Posted by Ean Austral

Ok no worries , cant get much voltage reading at the ends of the leads that go to the cell so assume the unit is knackered. Thanks for your replys. Cheers Ean

You did disconnect the leads first from the cell?

Originally Posted by Old Farang

You did disconnect the leads first from the cell?

Yes, tried volts and amps and no reading to speak of , I also tried putting the cell into a bucket of water and turned it on, no bubbles or misty water even after 10 minutes. The unit on the wall has power and also tells me all is ok but I have suspected for a while now it hasn't been working.


Its an old unit so it doesn't really surprise me , just strange the power to the pump works, the light runs thru it and works , timer works just no power to the cell.

Thanks for your time and help

cheers Ean

Thanks for your time and help

You're welcome.

Originally Posted by Old Farang

Arh, NO, do not try that! The controller output is electronically regulated to match the load / current required. A battery will just see the cell as a dead short and probably light up like it IS Guy Fawkes night!

Well, it is Guy Fawkes night.....