an automated self - propelled pool cleaner having a housing , a water pump for moving water through the housing , drive means for moving the pool cleaner over the surface of the salt water pool to be cleaned , and an integral electrochemical chlorine generator mounted in the housing , includes a processor / controller that is programmed to activate the chlorine generator , the pump and drive means in predetermined operational sequences that minimize wear and tear on the water pump and drive means , while at the same time distribute and maintain a safe level of sanitizing chlorine in the pool , to thereby obviate the need for an in - line chlorinator or other chemical additive treatments ; an optional automated sensor device can be provided to activate a secondary maintenance program which enables the pool cleaner to operate over prolonged periods of time as the sole means for filtering and sanitizing the pool water . an electrochemical cell manual mounting system permits the cell to be secured in place for operation and manually removed for maintenance , repair or replacement by the user without special tools or training .