Genuine vs. Generic Salt Chlorinator Cells: Which Offers Better Value

If you want the best balance between saving money and long-lasting performance for your pool, choosing between genuine and generic salt cells matters. Genuine salt cells offer strong reliability and support, while generic cells are more affordable for most budgets. The right pick depends on what you value most: long-term peace of mind or upfront savings.

Why Your Salt Water Pool Cell Choice Matters?

Keeping your pool water clean and safe depends on your salt chlorinator cell working properly. This cell is what helps turn salt into chlorine, making swimming simple and comfortable. But over time, even the best salt water pool cell wears out and needs replacing. When that happens, you’ve got two basic choices:

• Genuine salt cell: Made by the original manufacturer to fit your pool’s specific model.
• Generic (aftermarket) salt cell: Made by a third party, designed to be compatible with many systems at a lower price.

Deciding between the two isn’t just about cost—it’s about getting the most for your money without sacrificing water quality or safety.

Value at a Glance: Generic vs. Genuine Salt Cells

The Most Important Factors When Choosing a Pool Chlorinator Cell

Price and Savings

• Generic salt cells are much more budget-friendly, usually half the price of genuine brands, which means big savings, especially if your pool runs year-round.
• The lower cost does not mean they are “cheaply made.” High-quality generics often use the same technology and materials as originals, sometimes even with solid, longer-lasting plate designs.

Quality and Performance

• Modern generic salt cells often meet or beat genuine models in quality. Many generic salt water pool chlorinator cells feature solid plates (instead of perforated ones) that stand up better to heavy use and tough weather.
• In most cases, you’ll see no difference in chlorine production or water clarity between genuine and well-made generic cells.

Lifespan

• Expect 3 to 7 years from both generic and genuine cells, depending on how well you care for your pool and cell.
• Both types come with warranties, usually from 1 to 3 years, matching what you get from brand-name products.

Compatibility and Fit

• Genuine salt cells are built for a specific make and model—perfect if you want total peace of mind about fit.
• Generics are designed to be as close to plug-and-play as possible, often fitting a wider range of systems. 

Support and Service

• Buy a genuine salt water chlorinator cell, and you get direct support from the brand.
• Buy high-quality generics from a reputable supplier, and you’ll often get outstanding customer service, sometimes quicker and more personal than big-name brands.

What Should You Look For in Any Salt Cell?

No matter what you pick, be sure any salt water chlorinator cell has:

• Heavy-duty construction: Look for titanium or titanium-coated plates for a long life.
• Solid warranty: At least 2 years is standard on both generic and genuine cells.
• Easy install: You should be able to remove the old cell and fit the new one with no major changes to your system.
• Self-cleaning options: Some salt cells now self-clean, which means less hassle and longer life, worth paying a bit extra for if you hate cleaning salt build-up.

Making the Best Choice for Your Pool

The right pick between genuine and generic salt cells depends on your needs and peace of mind. If saving money is the priority and you love a good DIY install, generics can do the job, especially when you shop smart. But if you prefer more support and a nearly trouble-free pool experience, genuine salt cells are worth the investment.

Either way, Allstar Pool Parts is here to set you up for a cleaner, safer swimming season—helping you get the most out of your salt water pool, year after year.

With over 20 years of pool experience in Australia, Allstar Pool Parts knows what makes a pool run smoothly. Our team has built strong relationships with the best suppliers around the country. Whether you want a genuine salt cell or a reliable generic one for your salt water pool cell system, we stock options that last, backed by quality and warranty confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know When My Salt Water Pool Cell Needs Replacing?

You’ll notice signs like low chlorine levels, error messages on your control panel, white scale on the cell plates, or if your water gets cloudy often. Most salt water chlorinator cells last 3–7 years. If cleaning doesn’t fix the problem, it’s probably time for a new cell.

Is a Generic Salt Cell Safe to Use in My Pool?

Yes, as long as you buy your generic salt cell from a reputable pool supplier and check its compatibility with your system, it’s just as safe and effective as the original. At Allstar Pool Parts, we only stock quality-approved generic cells that won’t harm your equipment or water.

Will a Generic Pool Chlorinator Cell Fit My System?

Most generic salt cells are designed to fit the same connections and spaces as genuine cells. Still, double-check your pool’s make and model before you buy. If you’re not sure, just contact Allstar Pool Parts. We’ll help you choose the perfect fit.

Do Generics Come with a Warranty?

Yes! Quality generic salt water chlorinator cells usually include a warranty of 1 to 3 years, just like genuine parts. Always read the product details before buying so you know what protection you get.

How Do I Know if a Generic Cell Is Good Quality?

Look for a generic cell with titanium plates, a solid warranty, good reviews, and strong support from the supplier. At Allstar Pool Parts, we carefully select only the most reliable salt water pool cell brands so you can buy with confidence.

Can I Install a Replacement Salt Cell Myself?

Most salt cell replacements are user-friendly—just unscrew the old unit and put the new one in. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or ask us for advice if you get stuck. Always turn off the power before handling any pool parts.