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Pentair IntelliChlor Error COM LINK

The IntelliChlor lost communication with the EasyTouch motherboard. First check: cable plugged in and not loose.

Communication between IntelliChlor and the automation panel dropped. Reseat the cable first; cable service may need a pro.

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Full answer & models

COM LINK ERROR on an EasyTouch panel means the IntelliChlor has lost communication with the EasyTouch motherboard. Usually the cell cable is unplugged or loose; if reseating it doesn't help, Pentair says contact a pool professional to service the cable.

Applies to: IntelliChlor IC20IC40IC60with EasyTouch / IntelliCenter
Also searched as: COM LINK ERROR, Com Link, COM-LINK, IntelliChlor communication error

Power off the automation panel and salt system before reseating cables.
Why
Shut off power to the automation panel and the IntelliChlor power center before unplugging or reseating communication cables. Line-voltage work inside the load center belongs to a licensed professional.

What COM LINK means

The IntelliChlor lost communication with the EasyTouch motherboard. First check: cable plugged in and not loose.

More detail
Pentair documents COM LINK ERROR in EasyTouch Diagnostics as the IntelliChlor losing communication with the EasyTouch motherboard. Suggested first step: ensure the cable is plugged in and not loose. If that fails, contact a pool professional to service the cable. This is separate from IntelliChlor's own CHECK FLOW/PCB message.

5-minute checks

Fix it step by step

Step 1 of 4

  1. Reseat the cell cable

    • 5 min
    • None
    • DIY

    Power off. Unplug and firmly reseat the cable at the cell and at the automation COM terminal.

    More detail

    Reseat the IntelliChlor cable.

    Pentair's first suggested fix is to ensure the cable is plugged in and not loose. Power off, disconnect and reconnect both ends so the connector seats fully, then restore power and re-check Diagnostics.

    Did the code clear?

  2. Inspect the cable

    • 10 min
    • Flashlight
    • DIY

    Look for damage, corrosion, or a stretch that could pull the plug loose.

    More detail

    Inspect the cable path.

    Trace the cable from the cell to the panel. Replace a cut, crushed, or green-corroded connector rather than forcing it. A cable under constant tension often works loose again.

    Did the code clear?

  3. Cycle power

    • 5 min
    • None
    • DIY

    Power the automation and salt system back up, then open EasyTouch Diagnostics again.

    More detail

    Cycle power and re-check Diagnostics.

    After reseating, restore power and confirm whether COM LINK ERROR has cleared. If it returns immediately with a firmly seated cable, stop DIY work on the board.

    Did the code clear?

  4. Call a pro for cable service

    • Decision
    • None
    • Pro decision

    Pentair's next step after a seated cable is professional service of the cable.

    More detail

    Call a professional for cable/board service.

    Do not probe live RS-485 terminals or replace board chips as a DIY fix. Board-level communication faults and damaged cable runs belong to a qualified technician.

    Still showing COM LINK?Still COM LINK → see the partNeed a pro → call a pro

Code cleared. Nice work.

Recheck chlorine in a week. Pros do the same.

Back to top

Fixed after any step? Recheck chlorine in a week. Still COM LINK after step 4? See the replacement part or call a pro.

Call a pro if…

  • The cable is seated and COM LINK ERROR still returns.
  • You see damaged conductors, burned connectors, or need to open the load center.
  • Other automation faults appear with it, or you're not comfortable working inside the panel.
  • Pentair's guidance after ensuring the cable is plugged in is to contact a pool professional to service the cable.

Part you'll likely need

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If the steps above did not clear it, this is the part most people need.

IntelliChlor communication / cell cable (match your IC model and automation panel)

If the connector or cable is damaged, replacing the cable restores communication. Confirm the exact part for your IC20/IC40/IC60 and panel before buying.

Fits: IntelliChlor with EasyTouch / compatible automation

Check it on Amazon

FAQ

Is COM LINK the same as CHECK FLOW/PCB?

No. COM LINK is a communication loss with the EasyTouch motherboard. CHECK FLOW/PCB is a separate IntelliChlor message.

Will the cell still make chlorine?

With communication lost to automation, control and status can be wrong even if the cell has power. Fix the link before chasing chemistry.

Can I fix this myself?

Reseating a loose cable is a reasonable first check with power off. Cable replacement inside the load center and board work should go to a pro.

Where does Pentair document this?

Pentair's EasyTouch article: COM LINK ERROR means the IntelliChlor lost communication with the EasyTouch motherboard; ensure the cable is plugged in and not loose, then contact a professional to service the cable if needed.

Source: Pentair: What does COM LINK ERROR mean on my EasyTouch panel? (IntelliChlor Error Messages). Written by a Florida pool service owner. Updated 2026-10-14.