Hayward AquaRite 900 Turbo Cell Type Settings (t-3, t-5, t-9, t-15)

What Turbo Cell Type Settings Actually Do

The controller's salt calculation and output control assume a certain relationship between cell voltage, current, and the physical plate area. Different cell sizes have different characteristics. To keep readings accurate the AquaRite 900 exposes a Turbo Cell type setting in diagnostics, with codes such as t-3, t-5, t-9, and t-15. Each maps to specific cell models like T-CELL-3, T-CELL-9, or T-CELL-15, including the TCELL925 and TCELL940 variants.

If the controller thinks it has a larger cell than is actually installed, it will misinterpret the electrical behavior and report wrong salt or efficiency.

Step-by-Step Configuration

Identify the installed cell

1. Turn off power.
2. Read the model number on the label molded into the cell body, such as TCELL925 or TCELL940.
3. Write it down for reference.

Enter diagnostics and find the current t code

1. Restore power and set the main switch to Auto.
2. Press the diagnostic button repeatedly until you see a t code in the display.
3. Note whether it shows t-3, t-5, t-9, or t-15.

Match code to cell using the manual

Use the manual's mapping to determine the correct t code for the model you read off the cell. For example, one code corresponds to the three plate cell models, another to the larger fifteen plate versions.

Change the cell type if needed

1. With the t code on the display, move the main switch from Auto to Super Chlorinate and back to Auto to advance to the next type.
2. Repeat until the correct t code appears.
3. Press the diagnostic button to exit and return to normal display.

Verify operation

Let the system run and then check salt readings, warning lights, and chlorine production. Problems caused by a wrong cell type often disappear immediately after correction.

Common Symptoms of Wrong Turbo Cell Type

• Salt readings that are consistently too high or too low relative to test kits
• Check Salt or High Salt lights that do not match actual chemistry
• Inspect Cell warnings that persist in otherwise clean, well balanced water

Common Parts That Interact With This Setting

• The Turbo Cell itself. You must choose a cell size appropriate to the pool volume and set the controller accordingly.
• The main control board which stores the t setting. When you replace a board you must re enter the correct cell type.

Model-Specific Notes

• The AquaRite 900 is sold in bundles where the control and cell are matched at purchase, but replacement cells may differ. Always recheck the t code after replacing a cell.
• The manual lists exact part numbers for each t code. Use that list rather than guessing from memory.

How to Prevent Turbo Cell Type Errors

• Whenever you change the cell or main board, run through the entire diagnostics cycle and confirm the t setting.
• Label the inside of the AquaRite door with the correct cell model and t code for that site.
• Train staff to treat the Turbo Cell type as part of the standard commissioning checklist.