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Hayward AquaRite 900 Troubleshooter

Interactive diagnostic wizard for Hayward AquaRite 900 salt chlorinator indicator lights including No Flow, Check Salt, High Salt, Inspect Cell, and generation faults.

Select the symptom or indicator light your AquaRite 900 is displaying to get step-by-step troubleshooting guidance.

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What symptom is your AquaRite 900 showing?

Click a symptom or indicator light to see diagnostic steps.

About This Tool

This interactive troubleshooting wizard is designed specifically for the Hayward AquaRite 900 salt chlorine generator. Whether you are a pool homeowner trying to decode an indicator light on your control panel or a service technician running a structured diagnostic, the wizard adapts to your role and provides the appropriate level of guidance.

Select the "Homeowner" role for safe, practical checks you can perform yourself, or switch to "Technician" mode for detailed diagnostic procedures including cell current measurements, jumper tests, and diagnostics menu readings. Each symptom card links to a comprehensive written guide when you need to go deeper.

AquaRite 900 Indicator Light Quick Reference

The table below summarizes the most common Hayward AquaRite 900 indicator lights and their meanings. Click the troubleshooter above for step-by-step diagnosis of each light.

Indicator Light Description
Power LED Off No LEDs lit, display blank — no incoming power, blown fuse, or transformer failure
No Flow Flow switch not sensing water movement — pump off, clogged filter, or faulty flow switch
Check Salt Salt level is low or borderline — test independently and add salt if needed
High Salt Salinity above acceptable range — partially drain and refill with fresh water
Inspect Cell Cell performance dropped or scheduled inspection is due — check for calcium scale
Generating Off No chlorine production — output at 0%, flow or salt issue, or cell failure
Wrong Salt Reading Display does not match independent test kit — dirty cell or wrong cell type setting
Low Chlorine Generating light on but pool chlorine stays low — output too low, run time too short, or worn cell
Remotely Controlled Automation system (OmniLogic, ProLogic) has taken control of the unit
Cell Type Mismatch Controller cell type code does not match the installed TurboCell model

For a complete walkthrough of every indicator light with photos and wiring diagrams, see the full Hayward AquaRite 900 troubleshooting guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the "No Flow" light mean on a Hayward AquaRite 900?

The "No Flow" light means the flow switch is not detecting water movement through the chlorinator cell. Common causes include the pump not running, a clogged filter reducing flow, closed valves, or a faulty flow switch. Start by confirming the pump is running and the filter is clean. If flow is adequate, the switch may need repositioning or replacement.

What does "Check Salt" mean on the AquaRite 900?

The "Check Salt" light indicates the salt level is low or borderline for chlorine generation. The AquaRite 900 requires salt in the 2700-3400 ppm range. Test your salt independently with a drop kit, and if low, add pool-grade salt and allow 24 hours of circulation for it to fully dissolve and distribute.

How do I clean the TurboCell on my AquaRite 900?

Remove the TurboCell from the plumbing and inspect the plates for white calcium scale buildup. If scale is present, soak the cell in a 4:1 water-to-muriatic acid solution for 5-10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose before reinstalling. Regular cleaning extends cell life, which is typically rated for about 10,000 hours of operation.

Why is my AquaRite 900 showing the wrong salt reading?

Inaccurate salt readings are most commonly caused by calcium scale buildup on the cell plates, which interferes with the conductivity measurement. Clean the cell first. Also verify the cell type setting matches your installed TurboCell model (T-3, T-5, T-9, or T-15). Note that the AQR900 may display in g/L instead of ppm depending on region — 3.2 g/L equals 3200 ppm.

What does "Inspect Cell" mean on a Hayward salt chlorinator?

The "Inspect Cell" light indicates that cell performance has dropped or the scheduled inspection interval has been reached. Remove the cell and visually inspect the plates for white calcium buildup. Clean with a 4:1 water-to-acid solution if scale is present. If the light returns quickly after cleaning, the cell plates may be worn out and the cell may need replacement.

Can I use this troubleshooter if I am not a pool professional?

Yes. Select the "Homeowner" role and the wizard will show only the checks that are safe and practical for a non-professional to perform. Technician-level steps such as cell current measurements and jumper tests are hidden unless you switch to Technician mode. Always follow the safety warnings on screen, and consult a licensed pool service professional for any repair you are not comfortable performing.

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