Hayward H-Series BD, EE, CE Error Codes: Control Board & Communication Errors

Understanding Control Board Error Codes

The BD, EE, and CE error codes all relate to the heater's electronic control system. Unlike mechanical failures, these indicate problems with the digital components, memory, or communication between devices. These errors can be intermittent and frustrating to diagnose.

Code	Full Name	Primary Meaning	Most Common Cause
BD	Board/Bad	Control board hardware failure	Power surge or component aging
EE	EEPROM Error	Memory read/write failure	Corrupted settings or failed memory chip
CE	Communication Error	Lost signal between components	Loose connection or interference

BD Error Code - Board Failure

What BD Means

The BD code indicates the control board has detected an internal fault. This could be:

• Failed microprocessor
• Damaged power supply components
• Burned relay contacts
• Failed capacitors
• Overheated components

Common BD Triggers

• Power surges: Lightning or utility switching
• Voltage spikes: Motor starts, compressor cycling
• Overheating: Poor ventilation in control compartment
• Age deterioration: Capacitors dry out over time
• Water damage: Moisture intrusion causing shorts

BD Troubleshooting Steps

1. Power Cycle Test

1. Turn off power at breaker for 60 seconds
2. Turn power back on
3. Wait for system initialization (30 seconds)
4. Check if error clears
5. If cleared, monitor for recurrence

2. Visual Board Inspection

• Look for burned components (dark spots, melted plastic)
• Check for bulged capacitors
• Inspect relay contacts for pitting
• Look for corrosion on connectors
• Check for signs of water damage

3. Voltage Verification

• Measure incoming voltage (120V or 240V)
• Check for voltage stability (±5%)
• Verify proper grounding
• Test transformer output (24VAC typical)

EE Error Code - EEPROM/Memory Error

What EE Means

The EE code indicates the control board cannot read or write to its EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). This memory stores:

• Heater configuration settings
• Operating parameters
• Error history
• Runtime counters
• Calibration data

Common EE Causes

• Memory chip failure: Physical degradation of EEPROM
• Corrupted data: Power loss during write operation
• Electrical interference: EMF from nearby equipment
• Temperature extremes: Operating outside specifications
• Manufacturing defect: Rare but possible

EE Troubleshooting Steps

1. Factory Reset Attempt

1. Turn off power at breaker
2. Wait 5 minutes for capacitors to discharge
3. Hold MODE and UP buttons (if equipped)
4. Turn power on while holding buttons
5. Release after 10 seconds
6. Allow system to reinitialize

2. Memory Clear Procedure

Some models have a memory clear function:

1. Access service menu (see manual for key sequence)
2. Navigate to "CLEAR MEMORY" or "FACTORY RESET"
3. Confirm selection
4. System will restart with default settings
5. Reconfigure heater settings

3. Interference Check

• Turn off nearby variable speed pumps
• Disable salt chlorinators temporarily
• Check for radio transmitters nearby
• Look for recent electrical additions
• Test with potential interference sources off

CE Error Code - Communication Error

What CE Means

The CE code appears when the control board loses communication with:

• Display/keypad assembly
• Remote control interfaces
• Automation systems
• Internal communication bus
• Expansion modules

Common CE Causes

• Loose connections: Vibration causing intermittent contact
• Damaged cables: Pinched or cut communication wires
• Corroded pins: Moisture causing poor connections
• Protocol mismatch: Incompatible firmware versions
• Distance issues: Cable runs exceeding specifications

CE Troubleshooting Steps

1. Connection Inspection

1. Turn off power
2. Locate all communication cables
3. Unplug and inspect each connector
4. Look for bent pins or corrosion
5. Clean with electrical contact cleaner
6. Reconnect firmly
7. Apply dielectric grease if outdoor location

2. Cable Testing

• Check cable routing (away from high voltage)
• Test continuity of each conductor
• Verify shield connection if present
• Measure cable resistance (should be low)
• Replace if damage found

3. Display/Keypad Test

1. Disconnect display cable at control board
2. Check for voltage at board connector
3. If voltage present, display may be faulty
4. Try alternate display if available
5. Update firmware if applicable

Advanced Diagnostics

Control Board Component Testing

Power Supply Testing

1. Check input voltage (120/240VAC)
2. Test transformer secondary (24VAC)
3. Measure DC voltages:
   • 5VDC for logic circuits
   • 12VDC for relays (if used)
   • 3.3VDC for microprocessor
4. Check for AC ripple on DC supplies

Microprocessor Checks

• Verify crystal oscillator frequency (if accessible)
• Check reset pin voltage
• Monitor watchdog timer operation
• Test communication bus signals with oscilloscope

Memory Testing

• Cannot directly test EEPROM in circuit
• Look for repeated read/write patterns
• Monitor for data corruption after power cycles
• Check if settings save properly

Temporary Workarounds

For Intermittent BD Codes

• Install voltage regulator/conditioner
• Add surge suppressor at breaker
• Improve control compartment ventilation
• Clean board with compressed air
• Apply conformal coating for moisture protection

For EE Errors

• Document all settings before they're lost
• Keep heater in manual mode if possible
• Avoid power cycling unnecessarily
• Consider external timer control

For CE Errors

• Bypass remote controls temporarily
• Use local keypad only
• Shorten communication cable runs
• Add ferrite cores to reduce interference

Replacement Procedures

Control Board Replacement

1. Document all wire connections (photos)
2. Record DIP switch settings (if present)
3. Turn off power and gas
4. Label and disconnect all wires
5. Remove mounting screws
6. Install new board in reverse order
7. Configure settings per documentation
8. Test all functions before closing panel

Display/Keypad Replacement

1. Power off system
2. Remove display bezel screws
3. Disconnect ribbon cable carefully
4. Install new display assembly
5. Ensure proper gasket seal
6. Test all buttons and display segments

Common Replacement Parts

• Integrated Control Board: IDXL2ICB1931 (most models)
• Display Board Assembly: IDXL2DB1930
• Keypad/Bezel Kit: IDXL2BKP1930
• Communication Cable: IDXL2CAB1930
• Transformer: IDXL2TRF1930
• Surge Suppressor: Generic HVAC type

Prevention Strategies

• Install whole-house surge protection
• Add dedicated surge suppressor for heater
• Maintain proper ventilation in control area
• Seal control compartment against moisture
• Use dielectric grease on outdoor connections
• Avoid pressure washing control area
• Schedule annual electrical connection inspection
• Keep firmware updated if applicable

Environmental Factors

High Humidity Locations

• Add desiccant packets to control box
• Improve cabinet ventilation
• Apply conformal coating to board
• Check door seals regularly

Salt Air Environments

• Increase inspection frequency
• Use corrosion-resistant hardware
• Apply protective sprays to connections
• Consider enclosed cabinet upgrade

Lightning-Prone Areas

• Install lightning arrestor
• Ensure proper grounding system
• Unplug during severe storms
• Consider equipment insurance

When to Replace vs Repair

Replace Control Board When:

• Visible burn marks or component damage
• Multiple error codes simultaneously
• Intermittent failures increasing in frequency
• Board is obsolete or unavailable
• Repair cost exceeds 50% of replacement

Attempt Repair When:

• Simple connection issues identified
• Single failed component (relay, capacitor)
• Board is very expensive or rare
• Temporary fix needed while awaiting parts

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