BASC192041 | Electrode

Replacement Electrode for Clearwater C140S Salt Chlorinator

This BASC192041 Electrode is a critical replacement component for the Clearwater Salt Chlorinator C140S model. As the heart of your salt chlorination system, this electrode performs the electrolysis process that converts dissolved salt into chlorine, keeping your spa water sanitized automatically.

What is a Salt Cell Electrode?

The electrode, also known as a salt cell or electrolytic cell, is the component where chlorine generation actually occurs. When electrical current passes through the electrode plates submerged in salt water, it triggers an electrolysis reaction that splits salt molecules (sodium chloride) into sodium and chlorine gas. The chlorine then dissolves into the water, providing continuous sanitization without manual chemical addition.

How It Works

Electrolysis Process:
As salt water flows through the cell, the control board sends electrical current to the electrode plates. This current causes a chemical reaction that produces chlorine gas, which immediately dissolves into the water to sanitize your spa.

Self-Cleaning Action:
Most modern electrodes include automatic polarity reversal, which helps prevent scale buildup on the plates by periodically reversing the electrical charge.

Continuous Operation:
The electrode operates whenever your circulation pump runs, maintaining consistent chlorine levels without daily chemical testing or addition.

Why Electrodes Need Replacement

Electrodes are consumable components with a finite lifespan due to:

• Gradual erosion of electrode coating from continuous electrolysis
• Scale buildup from calcium and minerals in the water
• Chemical wear from exposure to chlorine production
• Electrical stress from constant current flow
• Typical lifespan of 3-5 years depending on usage and water chemistry

Signs Your Electrode Needs Replacement

• Reduced or no chlorine production despite proper salt levels
• Frequent “check cell” or “low chlorine” error messages
• Visible erosion or flaking of electrode plates
• Heavy scale deposits that don’t clean off
• Cell requires cleaning more frequently than normal
• System indicates cell has reached end of service life

Key Features

OEM Replacement Quality
Designed specifically for the Clearwater C140S system, ensuring proper fit and optimal chlorine production.

Durable Construction
Built with corrosion-resistant materials to withstand the harsh environment of continuous chlorine generation.

Efficient Design
Optimized plate configuration maximizes chlorine production while minimizing energy consumption.

Installation Overview

Professional Installation Recommended:
While mechanically straightforward, electrode replacement involves plumbing work and electrical connections. Professional installation ensures proper setup and system operation.

Basic Replacement Process:

1. Power Down: Disconnect all power to the salt chlorinator at the breaker
2. Drain System: Follow manufacturer procedures to drain the cell housing
3. Disconnect Plumbing: Remove unions or fittings connecting the cell to plumbing
4. Disconnect Electrical: Carefully disconnect power cables from the cell
5. Remove Old Electrode: Extract the worn electrode from the system
6. Install New Electrode: Position the replacement electrode and reconnect plumbing
7. Connect Power: Reattach electrical connections to the new cell
8. Test System: Restore power, check for leaks, and verify proper operation

Important Installation Notes

Replace O-Rings:
Always install new O-rings when replacing the electrode to ensure watertight seals.

Check Salt Levels:
Verify salt concentration is within manufacturer specifications (typically 2500-3500 ppm) before operating new electrode.

Reset Cell Timer:
If your system tracks electrode hours, reset the timer after installation.

Initial Operation:
Allow the system to run for several hours and recheck chlorine levels to confirm proper production.

Maximizing Electrode Lifespan

Maintain Proper Chemistry:
Keep pH between 7.2-7.8 and calcium hardness within recommended ranges to minimize scaling.

Regular Cleaning:
Inspect and clean the electrode every 3-6 months to remove scale deposits using manufacturer-approved methods.

Correct Salt Levels:
Maintain salt concentration within specified range—too low reduces efficiency, too high accelerates wear.

Balanced Water:
Properly balanced water reduces stress on the electrode and extends service life.

Product Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Type	Salt Cell Electrode
Part Number	BASC192041
Compatible Model	Clearwater Salt Chlorinator C140S
Category	Clearwater Salt Chlorinator Components
Application	Electrolytic Chlorine Generation
Function	Salt-to-Chlorine Conversion
Expected Lifespan	3-5 years (varies with usage and maintenance)

Understanding the Investment

While electrodes represent a significant investment, consider the value they provide:

Cost Savings:
Eliminates ongoing purchases of chlorine tablets, granules, or liquid sanitizer over the electrode’s 3-5 year lifespan.

Convenience:
Automatic chlorine generation means less time testing water and adding chemicals manually.

Water Quality:
Consistent chlorine levels maintain better water clarity and sanitation compared to manual dosing.

Reduced Chemical Handling:
Less exposure to harsh chlorine products during storage and application.

When to Order a Replacement

Plan Ahead:
Don’t wait until your electrode completely fails. Order a replacement when you notice declining performance to avoid extended downtime.

Keep Records:
Track installation dates and operating hours to anticipate replacement timing.

Seasonal Consideration:
If you use your spa seasonally, consider replacing electrodes at the start of peak season for uninterrupted operation.

What’s Included

This listing is for the electrode assembly. Verify whether your replacement requires additional components such as unions, O-rings, or mounting hardware, which may need to be ordered separately.

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Note: Electrode replacement should be performed by qualified technicians familiar with salt chlorination systems. Always verify part compatibility with your specific Clearwater C140S model before ordering. Maintain proper water chemistry to maximize electrode lifespan and performance.