Saltmate RP20 Self Clean Chlorinator

The Saltmate RP20 Deluxe Auto-Clean Saltwater Chlorinator is a premium, high-performance pool sanitization system designed to keep your pool water sparkling clean with minimal effort. It automatically generates chlorine from salt in your pool via electrolysis, eliminating the need to manually add chlorine or handle harsh chemicals. This deluxe model features a self-cleaning salt cell and intelligent digital controls, offering truly “set-and-forget” convenience for pool owners. Proudly designed and manufactured in Australia for tough conditions, the RP20 Deluxe is built with a robust, weather-resistant (IP34-rated) casing to ensure reliable operation even in harsh climates. In short, it delivers safe, comfortable swimming water with a fraction of the maintenance of traditional chlorine pools.

Saltmate RP20 Self-Clean Chlorinator key features

• Suits pools up to 100,000 litres. One size suits all

• Easy installation on new and existing pools

• Reverse Polarity self-cleaning electrodes

• An inbuilt timer controls pool pump and chlorinator - set and forget

• Self-cleaning cell

• Australian made

• Fully adjustable chlorine control

• Mineral salt compatible

• Water-resistant casing

• Chlorine output monitor

• Over salt protection

• Cell safety gas trap

• Call on/off switch

• Flow sensitive switch

• Optional Battery backup timer

• Optional 12v pool light transformer

• Warranty: 2 year full warranty on powerpack and cell - With further 3 year pro rate warranty on cell

Features

• Reverse Polarity Self-Cleaning Cell: The RP20 employs a reverse-polarity auto-clean electrolytic cell. The cell periodically reverses its polarity to shed calcium scale buildup, meaning the chlorinator cleans its own cell plates to prevent calcium deposits. This self-cleaning technology keeps the unit running at peak efficiency and greatly reduces the need for manual acid-washing of the cell.

• 24-Hour Digital Timer (with Battery Backup): An integrated digital time clock allows you to program the pump and chlorinator cycles each day – truly set and forget operation. You can schedule exactly when the system runs, optimizing filtration and chlorination times. A built-in backup battery ensures your timer settings are retained during power outages, so the unit resumes the correct schedule automatically.

• Fully Adjustable Chlorine Control: Fine-tune the chlorine production to your pool’s exact needs. The RP20 Deluxe features a simple dial to adjust output from 0% up to 100% of its capacity. An output/salt level indicator on the front panel displays the chlorine output rate and salt concentration, giving you at-a-glance feedback on the system’s status. This means you can easily increase chlorination in summer or dial it down for light use, ensuring consistent sanitizer levels.

• Weather-Resistant, Durable Design: Built for outdoor installation, the power pack controller has a heavy-duty IP34-rated casing that protects it from dust, rain, and sun. All components are of the highest quality, chosen to withstand the harsh Australian climate. The rugged housing and electronics ensure long-term reliability and performance in any weather. (Saltmate has been manufacturing salt chlorinators since 1988, so this unit benefits from decades of refinement in materials and design.)

• Advanced Safety Features: The Saltmate RP20 includes multiple safety protections for worry-free operation. It is over-salt protected, meaning if your salt level is accidentally too high, the system will guard itself (and alert you) rather than be damaged. A flow-sensitive switch detects when there is no water flow and automatically stops chlorine production – preventing gas build-up or damage if the pump is off. There’s also a built-in resettable circuit breaker and overload protection to safeguard the electronics. Additionally, a dedicated Cell on/off switch allows you to turn off chlorine generation while still running the pump (useful when super-chlorinating manually or when servicing the cell).

• Clear-View Cell Housing with Gas Trap: The RP20 Deluxe comes with a transparent Saltmate electrolytic cell housing made of sturdy material. This clear cell allows for easy visual inspection of the titanium electrode plates to check for any scale or deposits. The cell assembly is designed with an integrated gas trap that safely captures hydrogen gas produced during electrolysis, preventing it from traveling back into the plumbing when the pump stops. This enhances safety and also ensures the cell remains covered with water. The large, high-flow cell design is compatible with standard 40mm and 50mm PVC plumbing for straightforward installation on most pools.

• Mineral Salt Compatible: In addition to using regular pool salt, the Saltmate RP20 is fully compatible with modern mineral salt blends (such as magnesium/potassium-enriched salts). This gives you the flexibility to use specialty mineral salts for a more luxurious swimming experience. The chlorinator will effectively generate chlorine from either pure sodium chloride or mineral-blended salts, so you can enjoy therapeutic water qualities without any modifications to the unit.

Technical Specifications

• Chlorine Output: 33 grams per hour of chlorine (equivalent to 33g/h of pure chlorine gas). This output is automatically generated while the pump is running, keeping your pool continuously sanitized.

• Recommended Pool Size: Suitable for pools up to 120,000 liters in volume (≈120 m³ of water). (This is based on temperate climate usage; larger models are available for bigger or high-demand pools.)

• Self-Cleaning Function: Yes – Reverse Polarity self-cleaning cell (the unit periodically reverses electrode polarity to shed scale). This greatly minimizes manual cell cleaning frequency.

• Salt Requirement: Uses ~0.4–0.6% salinity in the pool. Ideal salt level ~5000 ppm, with a minimum of 4000 ppm required for operation. (For reference, seawater is ~35,000 ppm salt – a Saltmate pool is only about one-eighth as salty.) Once added, salt is reused continuously; you only top up salt to replace losses due to splash-out, backwashing, or heavy rain.

• Power Supply: 220–240 VAC, 50 Hz single-phase (standard mains power). The power pack has an internal 3 Amp circuit breaker for overload protection. (Power Input: 240V AC / Output to cell: low-voltage DC. Max pump load 8A – only connect one pump to the chlorinator’s outlet.)

• Pump Timer Control: Integrated 24-hour digital timer controls both the chlorinator and the filtration pump together. Modes include Auto (runs on programmed schedule), Manual On, or Off. An optional battery backup (included in the Deluxe model) preserves the clock and programs during power loss.

• Plumbing Requirements: Fits into standard pool plumbing with 40mm or 50mm PVC pipes (adapters included as needed). The cell assembly is installed in-line on the return-to-pool line. Recommended to install horizontally for optimal gas trapping.

• Included Components: The RP20 Deluxe package includes the wall-mountable Power Pack (control module), the Salt Cell and transparent housing (electrode assembly), a mounting bracket, and an instruction manual. All necessary power leads and cell cables are provided for installation.

• Enclosure & Construction: Power Pack housing is IP34 rated (rain and splash proof) for outdoor installation. The enclosure is made of a UV-stabilized, powder-coated metal for durability. The clear cell housing is UV-safe plastic.

• Controls & Indicators: Front panel features an adjustable chlorine output knob (percentage control), a chlorine output/salt level analog indicator gauge, “No Flow” safety LED, “Cell On” LED, and a 3A resettable circuit breaker switch. There are also toggle switches for Pump (Auto/Manual/Off) and Cell (On/Off) for easy operation as needed.

• Pool Compatibility: Designed for both new installations and retrofit on existing pool systems – no special fittings or alterations to your pump/filter needed. Suitable for use in saltwater or mineral pools alike. (Not for sea water use, although the unit can technically handle very high salt levels if ever needed.)

• Warranty: Backed by Saltmate’s 5-Year warranty program – 2 years full warranty on the power pack and cell, plus an additional 3-year pro-rata warranty on the cell electrodes. This comprehensive warranty reflects the unit’s high quality (see Warranty section below for details).

Benefits

• Hands-Off Maintenance: The RP20 Deluxe dramatically reduces the workload of pool maintenance. No more daily manual chlorine dosing or frequent cell cleaning sessions – the automated system takes care of sanitizing your pool and even cleans its own cell. This gives you more free time to enjoy your pool rather than maintaining it. If the idea of never fussing with chlorine or scrubbing calcium off a cell again isn’t enough, consider this: the Saltmate will keep your pool safe and clean automatically, even when you’re away on holiday.

• Cost Savings: A saltwater chlorinator can pay for itself over time. By generating chlorine from inexpensive salt, you drastically cut down on buying chlorine tablets, liquid, or granules. Pool salt is a one-time addition (with occasional top-ups) rather than a continuously purchased chemical. The Saltmate RP20’s efficient cell design provides “economical and trouble free pool sanitisation”, reducing the need for additional algaecides or shock treatments. Additionally, the long-lasting cell and durable construction mean fewer replacements and repairs, giving you lower cost-of-ownership in the long run.

• Superior Water Quality & Comfort: Salt-chlorinated pool water is famously softer and gentler than manually chlorinated water. Say goodbye to the strong chemical odors, irritated eyes, and dry skin associated with high chlorine swings. The RP20 produces a steady, consistent level of chlorine, avoiding the sharp peaks that cause red eyes and skin irritation. The result is crystal clear water that feels silky on your skin and doesn’t irritate swimmers. In fact, the required salt level (~0.5%) is so low that the water doesn’t taste noticeably salty – it’s about 1/8th the salinity of seawater and even less salty than human tears. You get just soft, safe, sparkling pool water for you and your family to enjoy.

• High Efficiency Sanitization: Despite its gentle water feel, the RP20 Deluxe packs a punch in chlorine output. Its 33 g/hour chlorine production can easily maintain healthy chlorine levels in pools up to 120,000 L, keeping your water hygienic even during heavy pool use or in summer heat. The continuous generation of chlorine as the filter runs means your pool is constantly being sanitized in the background. This continuous, metered approach prevents algae blooms and keeps the water looking clear day after day, with fewer shocking or super-chlorination events needed. Your pool stays algae-free and safe with minimal intervention.

• Durability & Longevity: Saltmate has a reputation for robust build quality, and the RP20 Deluxe is no exception. It’s constructed with high-grade materials and a heavy-duty design to ensure a long service life. The electrodes in the salt cell use premium coatings that maximize chlorine output and longevity. The electronics are protected by overload circuits and housed in a weatherproof case, so the unit is safeguarded from power surges and outdoor elements. All these factors contribute to a system that will reliably serve your pool year after year. The extended warranty (up to 5 years on the cell) further underlines the product’s longevity – you can invest with confidence that your chlorinator is built to last.

How It Works (Saltwater Electrolysis)

The Saltmate RP20 Deluxe uses the proven process of electrolysis to sanitize your pool. After adding the required salt to your pool (about 4–6 kg of pool salt per 1,000 liters, which yields ~4000–5000 ppm salt in the water), the chlorinator’s cell takes over chlorination duties. As pool water flows through the cell chamber, a low-voltage DC current passes across the cell’s plates. This causes chloride ions in the salt water to convert into chlorine gas (Cl₂) at the cell electrodes. The chlorine gas instantly dissolves into the water as free chlorine (hypochlorous acid), which is the active sanitizer that kills bacteria and algae. The now-chlorinated water returns to your pool to disinfect it. After sanitizing, the chlorine eventually recombines back into salt (sodium chloride), ready to be converted to chlorine again. This means salt is continuously recycled in the system – you only need to replenish what’s lost due to splash-out, backwashing, or dilution. Essentially, the RP20 creates an ongoing loop of chlorine generation, maintaining the ideal chlorine level at all times without manual intervention. This automated process keeps your pool water safe and clean, eliminating the need to store or handle bulk chlorine at home.

Installation

Installing the Saltmate RP20 Deluxe Auto-Clean Saltwater Chlorinator is straightforward and it’s compatible with most pool setups. It can be easily added to new or existing pools without changing your other equipment. The system includes a wall-mountable power pack (controller) and the in-line salt cell assembly that integrates into your pool’s return plumbing. The clear cell housing is typically plumbed after all other pool equipment (i.e. after the pump, filter, heater, etc.), just before the water returns to the pool. Standard 40mm or 50mm PVC pipe fittings are used to install the cell, matching common pool plumbing sizes. The unit comes with a mounting bracket for the power pack, which should be fixed to a wall or equipment board near a GPO (outlet). The power pack is then plugged into a normal 240V outlet, and your pool’s filter pump plugs into the bottom of the chlorinator unit. This setup allows the chlorinator to control the pump’s on/off times via the built-in timer. For best safety and performance, the cell is installed horizontally (so its gas trap can function properly) and in a location that allows easy access for inspection/cleaning. Professional installation by a pool technician or electrician is recommended, though experienced DIYers can follow the detailed instructions provided. Once installed, the RP20 Deluxe will seamlessly work with your pool’s filtration system to automate chlorination.

Maintenance and Operation Tips

One of the major advantages of the Saltmate RP20 is its low-maintenance design. However, to ensure optimal performance and longevity, some basic maintenance and pool care practices are advised:

• Maintain Proper Salt Levels: Keep the pool’s salt concentration in the recommended range (4000–6000 ppm, with ~5000 ppm being ideal). The chlorinator has over-salt protection, but very low salt (<4000 ppm) will reduce chlorine output. Salt is not consumed during operation, but can dilute with heavy rain or water loss. After periods of heavy rainfall or water top-ups, test your salt level and add salt if needed to stay above 4000 ppm.

• Keep Water Chemically Balanced: Balanced water chemistry protects both your pool surfaces and the chlorinator. Aim for a pH of 7.2–7.6 and total alkalinity 80–120 ppm. Proper pH not only makes chlorine more effective but also prevents scale buildup on the cell. Also maintain 1.5–3.0 ppm free chlorine in the water as a baseline (which the Saltmate will help achieve) and ~30–50 ppm cyanuric acid (stabilizer) to protect chlorine from sunlight. Periodically verify calcium hardness is in range, as very hard water can lead to faster scale accumulation.

• Periodic Cell Inspection: Although the RP20’s reverse-polarity feature keeps the cell largely free of scale, it’s good practice to inspect the cell plates every few months. The clear cell housing makes this easy – look for any white calcium deposits on the titanium plates. Under normal conditions you may see little to no buildup (the system “automatically reverses polarity to clean deposits off the cell electrode”). If the cell looks clean, no further action is needed. If you do see scaling, follow the cleaning steps below.

• Cleaning the Cell (if required): If the cell has noticeable calcium deposits (a “dirty” electrode will have visible white scale or crusty buildup), you should clean it to restore full efficiency. Always turn off power to the chlorinator and pump before servicing the cell. To clean, disconnect the cell from its unions and remove it from the line (the design allows easy removal). Unscrew the cell housing and take out the electrode plates. Soak the electrode in a dilute acid solution as directed in the manual (typically 1 part hydrochloric acid to 10 parts water). The fizzing will dissolve calcium deposits. Rinse the cell thoroughly with fresh water and reassemble. With the RP20, such cleanings are rarely needed – perhaps once a season depending on water hardness – but it’s good to know the process is straightforward.

• Routine Operation: For day-to-day use, the Saltmate RP20 should run according to your pool’s needs (usually 6–10 hours per day, or as set on the timer). The chlorinator will automatically adjust output based on your dial setting. During peak summer or heavy pool usage, you might increase the output percentage or filter run time; during winter or light use, you can dial it down. Use the chlorine output indicator on the unit to monitor that it’s producing in the proper range (it may have green zone for normal operation). The unit also has a “No Flow” or “Water Fault” light – if you ever see this illuminated, it means insufficient water flow (check that your pump is on and filter is not clogged).

• Off-Season/Winter: In colder months, you can reduce the chlorinator’s operating hours or turn the output down, since chlorine demand is lower. The Saltmate can be turned off for extended periods if you winterize the pool, but remember to add a bit of chlorine manually or run it occasionally to prevent algae. If shutting down, it’s a good idea to clean the cell and ensure the salt level is correct when you start it back up.

• General Care: The power pack unit is essentially maintenance-free. Just avoid covering it or blocking its ventilation, and do not store acid or chlorine containers directly beneath it (corrosive fumes can damage electronics). Inspect wiring and connections annually to make sure everything remains tight and corrosion-free. Following the guidelines in the user manual will ensure your RP20 Deluxe operates smoothly for many years.

By adhering to these simple maintenance tips, you’ll ensure the Saltmate RP20 Deluxe continues to run efficiently, providing clear and healthy pool water with minimal fuss. The combination of automatic self-cleaning and attentive occasional maintenance makes pool care easier than ever.

Warranty

The Saltmate RP20 Deluxe Auto-Clean Chlorinator comes with an excellent manufacturer’s warranty, underscoring the product’s quality and the company’s confidence in its durability. Customers receive a 2-Year Full Warranty on both the power pack (control box) and the electrolytic cell from the date of purchase. This full warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship, so if anything goes wrong in the first two years, Saltmate will repair or replace the defective part at no cost.

In addition, the RP20 includes an extended 3-Year Pro-Rata Warranty on the cell electrodes beyond the initial two years. In practical terms, this means the expensive cell is covered for up to 5 years in total. If the cell fails in year 3, 4, or 5, Saltmate will offer a prorated discount toward a replacement cell (you would only pay a portion of the replacement cost, which decreases each year of ownership). This pro-rata coverage is a great bonus that reduces the cost impact should the cell wear out in those later years.

Overall, the warranty program (effectively 5 years of coverage on the cell) provides peace of mind that your investment is protected. Saltmate has been a leading name in saltwater pool technology for decades, and their warranty support reflects that experience. Be sure to register your product if required and keep your proof of purchase and warranty card from the manual. In the unlikely event of an issue, your Saltmate RP20 Deluxe will be taken care of promptly under the warranty terms, ensuring you can continue to enjoy the benefits of a trouble-free, automatically chlorinated pool.

By choosing the Saltmate RP20 Deluxe Auto-Clean Saltwater Chlorinator, you’re investing in a state-of-the-art, low-maintenance chlorination system that will save you time, money, and effort while delivering sparkling, healthy pool water year-round. Whether it’s the convenience of the self-cleaning cell, the robustness of its Australian-made design, or the sheer ease of never having to manually add chlorine again, the RP20 Deluxe offers compelling benefits for any pool owner. It’s a professional-grade solution that brings resort-level water quality to your backyard pool with minimal hassle. Enjoy your swim!

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