As a pool owner, it is important to keep your pool clean and safe for swimming. One of the ways to do this is by using a chlorine generator. A chlorine generator, also known as a salt chlorine generator, is a device that uses salt to create chlorine for your pool. This eliminates the need for buying and handling chlorine tablets or liquid chlorine. Pentair is a well-known brand in the pool industry and offers two of some of the most popular chlorine generators: the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and Pentair Intellichlor IC40. Both of these are excellent options for keeping your pool clean and safe and in this article, we will be looking at the features, pros and cons, and factors to consider when choosing between the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and IC40 to help you decide which one is right for you.
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Pentair Intellichlor IC20 vs IC40: Specifications
| Pentair Intellichlor IC20 | Pentair Intellichlor IC40 | |
| Product Dimensions | 17.5″ Length × 6.5″ Width × 6.75″ Height | 7″ Length × 17″ Width x 7″ Height |
| Product Weight | 7 Pounds (3.18kgs) | 8 Pounds (3.63kgs) |
| Manufacturer | Pentair | Pentair |
| ASIN | B001HBPL32 | B001DSLLH4 |
| Product Model Number | IC20 (520554) | IC40 (520555) |
| Automation | IntelliTouch, EasyTouch and SunTouch | IntelliTouch, EasyTouch and SunTouch |
| Display | Two Color Status Display | Two Color Status Display |
| Operation | Push Button Operation | Push Button Operation |
| Waterproof? | Yes | Yes |
| Salt Level Indicators | 2 LEDs | 2 LEDs |
| Chlorine Output | 0.70 Pounds (0.32kgs) | 1.40 Pounds (0.64kgs) |
| Pool Capacity | 20 000 Gallons (75 708.24l) | 40 000 Gallons (151,416.47l) |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Pentair Intellichlor IC20 |
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| Pentair Intellichlor IC40 |
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Some Important Features of The Pentair Intellichlor IC20
The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 is designed for small to medium-sized pools of up to 20,000 gallons. Some of the more notable features of the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 are:
Easy To Install: The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 is easy to install and can be done by a pool professional or a DIYer. It comes with an installation manual that provides step-by-step instructions on how to install the device.
Digital Display: The control panel of the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 has a digital display that shows the salt level, cell status, and chlorine output. This makes it easy to monitor the device and ensure that it is working properly.
Self-cleaning: The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 has a self-cleaning feature that helps prolong the life of the salt cell. The device reverses the polarity every few hours, which helps prevent the buildup of calcium and other minerals on the plates.
Energy-efficient: The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 is energy-efficient and can help reduce your energy bills. It uses only the amount of energy needed to produce chlorine, and the control panel has a built-in timer that allows you to set the device to run only when needed.
Some Important Features of The Pentair Intellichlor IC40
The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is designed for larger pools up to 40,000 gallons. Some of the more notable features of the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 are:
Easy To Install: The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is also easy to install and can be done by a pool professional or a DIYer. It comes with an installation manual that provides step-by-step instructions on how to install the device.
Digital Display: The control panel of the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 also has a digital display that shows the salt level, cell status, and chlorine output. This makes it easy to monitor the device and ensure that it is working properly.
Self-cleaning: The Pentair Intellichlor IC40, like the IC20 , has a self-cleaning feature that helps prolong the life of the salt cell. The device reverses the polarity every few hours, which helps prevent the buildup of calcium and other minerals on the plates.
Energy-efficient: The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is also energy-efficient and can help reduce your energy bills. It uses only the amount of energy needed to produce chlorine, and the control panel has a built-in timer that allows you to set the device to run only when needed.
Higher Chlorine Output: The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 has a higher chlorine output than the IC20 , which makes it suitable for larger pools. It can produce up to 2 pounds of chlorine per day, compared to the IC20 , which can produce up to 1.4 pounds of chlorine per day.
Pentair Intellichlor IC20 vs IC40: Pool Size
The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 is designed for small to medium-sized pools up to 20,000 gallons, while the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is designed for larger pools up to 40,000 gallons. So the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is the clear winner in this match up.
Pentair Intellichlor IC20 vs IC40: Chlorine Output
The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 has a higher chlorine output than the IC20 . The IC40 can produce up to 2 pounds of chlorine per day, while the IC20 can produce up to 1.4 pounds of chlorine per day. This is due in part to the fact that it has a larger model number, implying that it is better than the previous IC20 model.
Pentair Intellichlor IC20 vs IC40: Price
The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is more expensive than the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 . This is because the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is designed for larger pools and has a higher chlorine output.
Pros And Cons of The Pentair Intellichlor IC20
Pros
- Easy To Install – The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 is easy to install and can be done by most DIY enthusiasts. The package comes with a user manual that provides step-by-step instructions on how to install the unit.
- Low Maintenance – The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 requires very little maintenance. You only need to clean the cell once every three months, which is pretty easy to do.
- Energy-efficient – The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 is an energy-efficient device that can save you money on your electricity bill. It operates at a low voltage, which means that it uses less energy than other models.
Cons
- Limited Capacity – The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 is designed to work with up to 20,000 gallons of water. If you have a larger pool, you may need to purchase a more powerful model.
- No Display – The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 does not have a display, which means that you cannot see the salt level or the chlorine output. This can be a bit inconvenient for some users.
Pros And Cons of The Pentair Intellichlor IC40
Pros
- High Capacity – The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is designed to work with up to 40,000 gallons of water, which makes it ideal for larger residential pools.
- Easy To Install – The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is easy to install and can be done by most DIY enthusiasts. The package comes with a user manual that provides step-by-step instructions on how to install the unit.
- Energy-efficient – The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is an energy-efficient device that can save you money on your electricity bill. It operates at a low voltage, which means that it uses less energy than other models.
Cons
- Expensive – The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is more expensive than the IC20. If you have a smaller pool, you may not need the extra power that the IC40 provides.
- No Display – The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 does not have a display, which means that you cannot see the salt level or the chlorine output. This can be a bit inconvenient for some users.
Comparing The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and The Pentair Intellichlor IC40: Which One Is The Better Choice Between The Two?
When it comes to choosing between the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and the IC40, there are a few factors that you need to consider. These include the size of your pool, your budget, and your maintenance preferences. If you have a small to medium-sized pool, the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 is a great option. It is easy to install, requires very little maintenance, and is energy-efficient. However, if you have a larger pool, you may need to go for the Pentair Intellichlor IC40. This model is more expensive, but it is also more powerful and can handle larger volumes of water. Ultimately, the choice between the two models comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you are unsure which one to choose, it is always a good idea to consult a professional to help you make the right decision.
Factors To Consider Before Choosing Between The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and Pentair Intellichlor IC40
Before choosing between the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and IC40, there are several factors to consider like:
Pool Size: The size of your pool is the most important factor to consider. If you have a small to medium-sized pool, the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 is the better option. If you have a larger pool, the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is the better option. Your Budget: The Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is more expensive than the IC20 . If you are on a tight budget, the IC20 might be the better option.
Chlorine Output: If you have a pool that gets a lot of use or is located in an area with high temperatures and sunlight, the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 might be the better option. This is because it has a higher chlorine output and can keep up with the demand.
Installation: Both the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and IC40 are easy to install, but if you are not comfortable doing it yourself, you might want to hire a pool professional.
How Does The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and IC40 Work?
The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and IC40 both use the same technology to create chlorine for your pool. They use electrolysis to convert salt into chlorine. The device consists of a salt cell and a control panel. The salt cell is installed in-line with your pool’s filtration system and contains a series of titanium plates coated with a thin layer of ruthenium oxide. When saltwater passes over these plates, an electric charge is applied, which causes the salt to be converted into chlorine. The control panel is the brain of the system. It monitors the salt levels in your pool and adjusts the chlorine output accordingly. This ensures that your pool always has the right amount of chlorine, and you don’t have to worry about manually adding chlorine to your pool.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and IC40
What is the lifespan of Pentair Intellichlor [IC20 or IC40] ?
The lifespan of your Pentair Intellichlor depends on how well it is maintained. With proper maintenance, it can last up to 5 years or a bit more.
How often do I need to clean the cell?
The cell needs to be cleaned once every three months.
Can I install Pentair Intellichlor myself?
Yes, you can install your Pentair Intellichlor yourself. It comes with a user manual that provides step-by-step instructions on how to install the unit.
How much salt do I need to add to my pool?
The amount of salt you need to add to your pool depends on the size of your pool. Refer to the Pentair Intellichlor’s user manual for the recommended amount of salt for your pool size.
Can the Pentair Intellichlor be used with other brands of salt?
Yes, Pentair Intellichlor can be used with other brands of salt. However, it is recommended that you use the same brand of salt as the one recommended by Pentair.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and IC40 depends on several factors, such as the size of your pool, your budget, and your chlorine output needs. If you have a small to medium-sized pool and are on a tight budget, the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 is the better option. If you have a larger pool and need a higher chlorine output, the Pentair Intellichlor IC40 is the better option. Both devices are easy to install and maintain and offer several benefits, such as consistent chlorine levels, energy efficiency, and self-cleaning. With a Pentair Intellichlor IC20 or IC40, you no longer have to buy chlorine tablets or liquid chlorine, which saves you time and money in the long run. Ultimately, the decision between the Pentair Intellichlor IC20 and IC40 comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Whichever device you choose, make sure to follow the installation and maintenance instructions in the user manual to ensure that it works properly and lasts for many years.
| Pentair Intellichlor IC20 |
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| Pentair Intellichlor IC40 |
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