Hayward Aqua Rite Cell Type Selection and Automation Integration Issues
Quick Summary
- Incorrect cell type selection (T-CELL-3, T-9, or T-15) causes inaccurate salt readings, wrong output calculations, and incorrect service intervals.
- Automation integration problems usually involve wiring errors, relay conflicts, or incorrect pump-on signals to the Aqua Rite.
- Always verify the cell type setting in diagnostics matches the actual cell installed, especially after a cell replacement or new installation.
- When using automation (Hayward OmniLogic, ProLogic, etc.), follow the manual's wiring diagram exactly to avoid control conflicts.
Cell Type Configuration Issues
The Aqua Rite control must be told which Turbo Cell is installed (T-CELL-3, T-9, or T-15) so it can correctly calculate salt levels, set output power, and schedule maintenance reminders. Each cell type has different electrical characteristics and chlorine production capacity.
If the wrong cell type is selected, the system will operate but with incorrect calibration. This commonly leads to false salt warnings, excessive or insufficient chlorine output, and premature or delayed "Inspect Cell" notifications.
How to Check and Correct Cell Type
- Press the diagnostic button repeatedly to scroll through the display menu.
- Find the screen that shows the selected cell type (T-3, T-9, or T-15).
- Compare this to the label on your actual Turbo Cell (usually printed on the cell body or end cap).
- If they do not match, consult the manual for the procedure to change the cell type setting (typically involves a button combination or internal jumper).
- After correcting the setting, power-cycle the system and verify the change took effect.
Common Cell Type Mistakes
- Installer sets up the control for a T-15 but installs a T-9 to save cost, leading to chronic low output complaints.
- Owner replaces a failed T-9 with a T-15 for more capacity but forgets to update the control setting, resulting in false high salt readings.
- Factory default setting (usually T-15) is never changed during initial setup, causing issues if a smaller cell is installed.
Automation Integration Issues
When the Aqua Rite is wired to work with a pool automation system (Hayward OmniLogic, ProLogic, Pentair IntelliCenter, Jandy AquaLink, etc.), coordination between the two systems is critical. The automation tells the chlorinator when the pump is running, and in some cases can adjust chlorine output remotely.
Integration problems typically show up as:
- Aqua Rite thinking the pump is on when it is off, or vice versa, leading to "No Flow" faults or failure to generate.
- Automation unable to read salt level or cell status from the Aqua Rite.
- Conflicting settings where manual adjustments at the Aqua Rite are overridden by automation commands.
- Intermittent communication loss between the two systems.
How to Diagnose Automation Problems
Verify wiring connections
- Check that the Aqua Rite is wired according to the integration diagram in both the chlorinator and automation manuals.
- Most integrations use a relay or low-voltage signal wire from the automation to the Aqua Rite's "pump on" or "external control" terminals.
- Loose, reversed, or missing connections are the most common cause of integration failure.
Test standalone operation
- Temporarily disconnect the automation link and wire the Aqua Rite to run directly from the pump timer or breaker.
- If the chlorinator works perfectly standalone but fails when reconnected to automation, the problem is in the integration, not the Aqua Rite itself.
Check automation system settings
- In the automation controller menu, verify the chlorinator is enabled and configured for the correct model (Aqua Rite, not a Pentair or Jandy unit).
- Some systems require you to specify cell type and pool volume in the automation software.
- Mismatched settings can cause the automation to send incorrect commands or misinterpret status signals.
Look for relay or contactor issues
- If the automation uses a relay to signal "pump on" to the Aqua Rite, test the relay for proper operation.
- A stuck or failed relay can leave the Aqua Rite thinking the pump is always on or always off.
Common Parts That Fix These Problems
None (for cell type issues)
Cell type mismatch is a configuration error, not a hardware failure. Correcting the setting in the control fixes it.
Replacement Relay or Interface Module
If the relay that bridges automation to Aqua Rite is faulty, replacement restores communication. Some systems use a dedicated interface module (e.g., Hayward AQL2-BASE-RF) that may need replacement.
Updated Automation Firmware
In some cases, outdated automation firmware causes compatibility issues with newer Aqua Rite models. Check for updates from the automation manufacturer.
Model-Specific Notes
- Hayward's own automation systems (OmniLogic, ProLogic, AquaPlus) generally integrate smoothly with Aqua Rite, but non-Hayward systems may require third-party interface modules or custom wiring.
- Some Aqua Rite models have a "super chlorinate" mode that can be triggered by automation for temporary boost; verify this feature is wired and configured if desired.
- Automation systems that display salt level pull this data directly from the Aqua Rite; if the displayed salt is wrong, the issue is usually at the Aqua Rite, not the automation.
How To Prevent Configuration and Integration Problems
- At installation or cell replacement, always verify cell type setting and correct it immediately.
- Keep a copy of the wiring diagram used for automation integration; this is invaluable for future troubleshooting.
- Label wires at both ends so it is clear which terminals connect the Aqua Rite to the automation system.
- Test the complete system (pump, automation, chlorinator) together before closing up the equipment pad and calling the job done.
- When upgrading automation or chlorinator components, check compatibility and update firmware on both sides if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a T-15 cell with a T-9 setting to make it last longer?
No. The control needs the correct setting to manage output and calibration. Running the wrong setting causes inaccurate salt readings and inefficient operation.
My automation says the chlorinator is offline, but the Aqua Rite panel looks normal. What's wrong?
Check the communication wiring and verify the automation is configured for the correct chlorinator model. A loose or corroded connection is the usual culprit.
Can I control the Aqua Rite output from my automation app?
If properly integrated, yes. Most Hayward automation systems allow remote adjustment of chlorine output and can display status. Non-Hayward systems may have limited control.
What happens if I install a T-3 but leave the control set to T-15?
The system will expect much higher chlorine production capacity and will show false salt readings. Output will be unbalanced and you may get nuisance warnings.
Do I need special wiring to integrate with non-Hayward automation?
Sometimes. Pentair, Jandy, and other brands may require an interface module or relay to translate signals. Consult both manuals or hire a tech experienced with cross-brand integration.