Pentair EasyTouch Sensor Errors

Pentair EasyTouch Sensor Errors

Equipment Guide

EasyTouch displays sensor errors when temperature sensors are disconnected or defective. These errors appear on the Main Screen or in the Diagnostics menu.

All sensors connect to the J21 connector on the EasyTouch motherboard.

Sensor Error Messages

Air Err

Display location: Main Screen

Cause: Air sensor not connected to EasyTouch motherboard

Impact: Freeze protection may not function correctly

Solution: Check that air sensor plug is connected to J21 connector on motherboard. Verify sensor wire is connected properly.

Air Temperature Err

Display location: Diagnostics menu

Cause: Air sensor not connected to EasyTouch motherboard

Solution: Check that air sensor plug is connected to J21 connector on motherboard.

Water Temperature Err

Display location: Diagnostics menu

Cause: Water sensor not connected to EasyTouch motherboard

Impact: Heater control will not function; temperature display will be incorrect

Solution: Check that water sensor plug is connected to J21 connector on motherboard.

Solar Temperature Err

Display location: Diagnostics menu

Cause: Solar sensor not connected to EasyTouch motherboard (only if solar heating is configured)

Impact: Solar heating automation will not function

Solution: Check that solar sensor plug is connected to J21 connector on motherboard.

Troubleshooting Steps

Step 1: Access Diagnostics

  1. Press Menu button on EasyTouch panel
  2. Navigate to Diagnostics
  3. Note which sensors show errors

Step 2: Check J21 Connection

  1. Turn off power to EasyTouch load center
  2. Open the load center enclosure
  3. Locate J21 connector on the motherboard
  4. Check that sensor cable is fully seated
  5. Look for corrosion or damaged pins
  6. Re-seat the connector firmly

Step 3: Inspect Sensor Cable

  1. Trace cable from J21 to sensor location
  2. Look for damage, cuts, or crushed areas
  3. Check any splices or junction boxes
  4. Verify sensor probe is intact

Step 4: Test Sensor

Using a multimeter on resistance (ohms) setting:

  1. Disconnect sensor cable from J21
  2. Measure resistance across sensor leads
  3. At 77F (25C), typical reading is approximately 10k ohms
  4. Resistance should change with temperature changes
  5. No reading (open circuit) = broken sensor or wire
  6. Very low reading (near short) = shorted sensor

Sensor Locations

Air Sensor

Typically mounted on the exterior of the equipment pad or load center. Measures ambient air temperature for freeze protection.

Water Sensor

Installed in a sensor well in the plumbing, usually after the filter. Measures pool/spa water temperature for heating control.

Solar Sensor

Mounted on or near the solar panels. Measures panel temperature to determine when solar heating is beneficial.

Replacement Parts

When replacing sensors:

  • Use Pentair-approved replacement sensors
  • Match sensor type (10k ohm thermistor)
  • Use weatherproof connections for outdoor installations
  • Route sensor wire away from high-voltage wiring

When to Call for Service

  • Sensor tests good but error persists
  • J21 connector appears damaged
  • Motherboard may need replacement