Davey ChloroMatic Nipper Salt Chlorinator - Digital Display, Battery Backup NZ

Reliable pool chlorination from salt — set your timers, adjust output, and let the Nipper do the rest.

The Davey ChloroMatic Nipper is a salt and mineral water chlorinator for in-ground and above-ground residential pools. It generates chlorine from salt, displays operating information on the digital LCD panel, and includes dual timers, adjustable chlorine output, and battery backup. No app or WiFi required — everything is controlled from the panel.

Five models are available — three standard salt models (DNP15C, DNP25C, DNP35C) and two low-salt models for mineral pools (DNP15CLS, DNP25CLS). Select your model using the dropdown above.

Want app control, ORP monitoring, and chemistry management? The Nipper is designed to integrate with the Davey Lifeguard controller — see our Lifeguard listing for the full chemistry control upgrade.

Which model do I need?

The right model depends on your pool size and local climate. In NZ, use the Cool or Temperate climate column.

CLS models operate at lower salt levels — as low as 1500ppm — and are suited to mineral pools and customers who prefer a softer, lower-salt pool feel. Standard models require 3000ppm minimum.

If you're unsure which model suits your pool, get in touch and we'll help you choose.

Key specs at a glance

• 5 models: 15g/hr, 25g/hr, and 35g/hr chlorine output
• Standard salt models: 3000–6000ppm | CLS low-salt models: 1500–6000ppm
• Suits pools up to 140,000L (model and climate dependent)
• Digital LCD display with dual timers and adjustable chlorine output
• Reverse polarity U-shaped cell with integrated safety flow switch
• Battery backup for blackout protection
• Max pump GPO load: 9A
• 3-year warranty

Why pool owners choose the Nipper

• Simple, reliable operation — digital LCD panel with dual timers and adjustable output, no app required
• Reverse polarity U-shaped cell with easy-fit connection — self-cleaning and straightforward to remove for maintenance
• Integrated safety flow switch — no-flow cut-off protects the cell
• Battery backup — maintains settings during power outages
• Low salt compatible — CLS models suit mineral pools at 1500ppm
• Energy efficient modes — chlorine boost, winter reduction, spa and cover settings
• UV-stabilised enclosure — built to handle outdoor pool environments
• Switchmode power supply for energy efficiency
• Upgradeable — integrates with the Davey Lifeguard for full chemistry control, ORP monitoring, and WiFi app
• ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified manufacturer
• 3-year warranty

How it works

The Nipper passes pool water through the reverse polarity U-shaped chlorination cell. A low-voltage electrical current splits the dissolved salt in the water into chlorine, which sanitises the pool. The reverse polarity function regularly reverses the current to reduce calcium buildup on the cell plates, lowering maintenance frequency.

The digital LCD controller handles scheduling via dual timers and lets you adjust chlorine output directly. Energy efficient modes allow output to be reduced for winter, spa, or cover operation. The integrated flow switch monitors water flow and cuts power to the cell if flow stops — protecting the cell.

Important notes

Hard water: In pools with water hardness above 275ppm, reverse polarity systems require regular monthly inspection and manual cleaning of the cell to prevent calcium scale buildup.

Run time: Davey recommends running the system for 6–8 hours per day during summer and 2–4 hours per day during winter. Actual run time will depend on bather load, pool volume, and local climate.

Full technical specifications

What's in the box

• Davey ChloroMatic Nipper controller
• Chlorination cell and cell housing

Frequently asked questions

Which model is right for my pool?

Use the output table in the "Which model do I need?" section above. Match the model to your pool volume and climate. In NZ, the Cool (<25°C) or Temperate (25–30°C) columns are most relevant. CLS models are the better choice for mineral pools or where you prefer a lower salt level.

What's the difference between standard and CLS models?

Standard models (DNP15C, DNP25C, DNP35C) require a minimum salt level of 3000ppm. CLS models (DNP15CLS, DNP25CLS) operate at 1500–6000ppm — suited to mineral pools where salt is kept lower. Output capacity is identical between equivalent standard and CLS models.

What's the difference between the Nipper and the Lifeguard?

The Nipper is a standalone salt chlorinator — it generates chlorine and lets you control output and scheduling from the panel. The Lifeguard adds WiFi and Bluetooth app control, ORP monitoring, salt measurement, and chemistry control. If you want remote access and automated chemistry management, the Lifeguard is the better fit. If you want reliable, straightforward chlorination without the added technology, the Nipper does the job well.