Hayward Aqua Rite PCB Fault Codes and Control Board Issues

What PCB Faults Look Like

Unlike specific single-symptom problems like "Check Salt" or "No Flow," PCB failures often show confusing or contradictory symptoms:

• Multiple LEDs flashing in patterns that do not match any documented fault.
• Display showing impossible readings (e.g., salt at 9999 ppm, temperature at 200°F).
• System powers on but will not respond to buttons or changes.
• Intermittent operation, working fine one day and dead the next.
• Burning smell, visible scorch marks, or bulged components on the board.

These are signs that the control logic or power circuits on the board have failed, not that a sensor or external component is at fault.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

Owner-Level Checks

Power-cycle the system

• Turn off the breaker to the Aqua Rite for 30 seconds, then restore power.
• Some transient faults or software glitches can be cleared by a full reset.
• If the system returns to normal and stays that way, the board may be fine.
• If the problem returns immediately or within a few hours, suspect hardware failure.

Inspect for visible damage

• Open the control box (with power off) and look at the PCB.
• Look for burn marks, melted plastic, corroded connectors, or loose components.
• Check for water entry from rain, leaks, or poor sealing of conduit knockouts.
• Any obvious damage means the board likely needs replacement.

Document the symptoms

• Write down exactly what LEDs are on, what the display shows, and what the system is (or is not) doing.
• This information helps a technician or Hayward support determine if the fault is truly PCB-related or external.

Tech-Level Checks

Verify correct input voltage and configuration

• Measure line voltage at the power terminals. Confirm it matches the jumper setting (120 V or 240 V).
• Incorrect voltage can cause erratic behavior or damage the board.
• Check that the 20 A mini fuse is intact; a blown fuse can cause power-related symptoms that mimic board failure.

Test with a known-good cell

• If available, swap in a different Turbo Cell to rule out cell-side faults.
• If the new cell also behaves strangely or shows impossible readings, the board is the problem.
• If the new cell works normally, the original cell was faulty, not the board.

Check flow switch and other peripheral connections

• Disconnect the flow switch and see if fault behavior changes. A shorted or miswired switch can confuse the board.
• Inspect all connectors for corrosion or loose contacts.
• Verify grounding and bonding; poor grounding can allow electrical noise or surge damage into the control.

Review recent events

• Did the system fail immediately after a thunderstorm, power outage, or other electrical event?
• Was there recent work on the pool equipment that involved disconnecting or moving wiring?
• Lightning strikes and power surges are the most common sudden PCB killers.

Common Parts That Fix This Problem

Replacement Control PCB

If diagnostics confirm board failure, the entire PCB assembly is replaced as a unit. Hayward does not offer component-level repair; the board is a sealed, modular part.

Surge Protector or UPS

To prevent future failures, some installers add surge protection or an uninterruptible power supply to the pool equipment circuit, especially in areas with frequent lightning.

Model-Specific Notes

• Aqua Rite boards are model-specific and may require matching firmware or settings to the installed cell type. Always order the correct replacement part number.
• After replacing the board, you must reconfigure cell type, reset the service timer, and verify voltage jumpers before powering up.
• Some boards have diagnostic test modes accessible via button combinations; consult the service manual for advanced troubleshooting.

How To Prevent PCB Failures

• Mount the control box in a location protected from direct rain and splashing.
• Use proper drip loops and sealed conduit entries to keep water out.
• Install whole-house or equipment-level surge protection in lightning-prone areas.
• Ensure proper grounding and bonding of all pool electrical equipment per NEC code.
• Avoid running the Aqua Rite on an overloaded circuit or with voltage sags from undersized wiring.
• During off-season or extended vacations, consider turning off the breaker to reduce exposure to surge events.

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