Interactive diagnostic wizard for Hayward AquaRite salt chlorinator LED codes including No Flow, Check Salt, High Salt, Inspect Cell, PCB Fault, and more.
Select the symptom or LED indicator your AquaRite is displaying to get step-by-step troubleshooting guidance.
Click a symptom or LED indicator to see diagnostic steps.
This interactive troubleshooting wizard is designed specifically for the Hayward AquaRite salt chlorine generator. Whether you are a pool homeowner trying to decode an LED indicator 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 voltage measurements, cell current testing, and board-level diagnostics. Each symptom card links to a comprehensive written guide when you need to go deeper.
The table below summarizes the most common Hayward AquaRite LED indicators and their meanings. Click the troubleshooter above for step-by-step diagnosis of each code.
| LED Indicator | Description |
|---|---|
| Power LED Off | No incoming power to the unit — check breaker, fuse, or transformer |
| No Flow | Flow switch not sensing water movement — pump may not be running, filter dirty, or flow switch faulty |
| Check Salt | Salt level below operating threshold — flashing = reduced output, solid = generation stopped |
| High Salt | Salinity above upper limit — partially drain and refill with fresh water |
| Inspect Cell | Time-based service reminder or cell efficiency has dropped — clean or replace cell |
| Generating Off | System appears on but no chlorine is being produced — check output %, salt level, and cell condition |
| Cold Water | Water temperature below ~50–60°F — generation suspended until water warms |
| -Pcb- | PCB (control board) fault — internal board failure, usually requires board replacement |
For a complete walkthrough of every LED code with photos and wiring diagrams, see the full Hayward AquaRite troubleshooting guide.
The "No Flow" LED indicates that the flow switch is not detecting water movement through the plumbing. Common causes include the pump not running, a dirty filter restricting flow, closed valves, or a faulty flow switch. Start by confirming the pump is on and the filter is clean. If flow is good but the light persists, inspect the flow switch paddle and cable connection.
The "Check Salt" LED means the salt level has dropped below the operating threshold. A flashing light indicates reduced chlorine output, while a solid light means generation has stopped entirely. Test your salt independently with a drop kit or digital meter. If salt is genuinely low, add pool-grade salt gradually and allow 24 hours for it to dissolve and circulate. Cold water can also cause temporarily lower salt readings.
The "Inspect Cell" LED is typically a time-based service reminder indicating it is time to check the TurboCell for calcium scale buildup. Remove the cell and look for white deposits on the plates. If scale is present, soak the cell in a 4:1 water-to-muriatic acid solution for 5 to 10 minutes. If the light returns quickly after cleaning, the cell plates may be worn and the cell may need replacement, especially if it has exceeded 10,000 operating hours.
The "-Pcb-" display with multiple LEDs lit indicates an internal control board (PCB) failure. Try power cycling the unit by turning the breaker off for 30 seconds and back on. If the code returns immediately, do not repeatedly power cycle, especially if the fuse blows. A PCB fault typically requires board replacement by a qualified technician. Inspect the board for burned components, swollen capacitors, or signs of water damage.
If the system appears on but the pool has no free chlorine, check that the output percentage is set above 0% and the "Generating" LED is lit when the pump runs. Common causes include low salt levels, a worn or scaled cell, high CYA (stabilizer) masking chlorine effectiveness, or high pool demand from heavy use, rain, or heat. A technician can measure cell amps to verify the cell is actually producing chlorine.
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 voltage measurements and cell current testing 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.
PoolDial helps pool service professionals manage customers, routes, billing, and equipment tracking from one place. Try it free for 30 days.
Start Free Trial