The IonCleanse® 316 replacement plates last on average of about 1,000 minutes (see below for the 304/321 combination plate); however, the life of the plates can be as little as 600 minutes or as high as 1,800 minutes depending mainly on water quality. See the picture below of the gradual decomposition of the plates. You'll notice how some of the plates start to erode and the bottom becomes uneven. This is a good indication that it's time to change your plates. Lower surface area of the plates indicates a lower ionization effect in the water.
There are also two other indications that your plates need to be changed.
- If you find yourself adding more and more salt to the water in order to maintain your amperage, it is almost a guarantee your plates need to be changed.
- If you're getting a 0 reading on your amperage, that could be an indication that your plates are worn out. See our article My machine reads 0 amps.
For the 304/321 plates, average plate life is 600-800 minutes. The rest of the article applies to this style of plates too.