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Hayward AquaRite 900 Series - User Manual

Hayward AquaRite 900 Series
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AquaRite 900 series
Electronic Chlorine Generator
®
AQR940
AQR925
Hayward Pool Products
620 Division Street, Elizabeth NJ 07207
Phone (908)-355-7995
www.hayward.com
092623 RevD
Owner’s Manual
Contents
Operation..............................2
Installation.......................11
Troubleshooting.................. 15
Warranty..............................18
USE ONLY HAYWARD GENUINE REPLACEMENT PARTS

Questions and Answers

  • J
    John MartinAug 16, 2025
    How to fix decimal salt reading on Hayward AquaRite 900?
    • R
      Rhonda FrenchAug 16, 2025
      If the salt reading is displayed as a decimal number, press the Diagnostic Button once. Then, slide the power switch from "Auto" to "Super Chlorinate" and back to "Auto". Wait 15 to 20 seconds. Your pool's salt level will then be displayed in parts-per-million.
  • A
    Andrew ZamoraAug 19, 2025
    What to do if the High Salt LED is illuminated on my Hayward AquaRite 900 Portable Generator?
    • D
      daisy53Aug 19, 2025
      Ensure that the correct Turbo Cell model has been selected. Check the salt level in your pool or spa. If the salt level is too high, lower it by draining some pool water and replacing it with fresh water until the salt concentration reaches recommended levels.
  • M
    Mary LopezAug 22, 2025
    What to do if Check Salt LED is illuminated or flashing on Hayward AquaRite 900 Portable Generator?
    • P
      Patrick GonzalesAug 22, 2025
      Make sure the correct Turbo Cell model is selected. Check the salt level in the pool or spa. If the salt level is low, add salt according to the provided chart. Before adding large quantities of salt, it's advisable to have your salt level professionally checked.
  • A
    Andrea AndrewsAug 26, 2025
    What to do if the No Flow LED is illuminated on my Hayward Portable Generator?
    • A
      Ashlee ReedAug 26, 2025
      If the AquaRite senses a no-flow condition, it stops generating chlorine. Check that the flow switch is correctly plugged into the connector at the bottom of the control unit and that the wire isn't cut or damaged. Ensure you have at least 12" of straight pipe before the flow switch. If there is adequate flow but the LED remains on, verify that the arrows on the flow switch (on top of the hex) point in the direction of flow.
  • L
    Lynn RobinsonAug 28, 2025
    What does it mean when the Inspect Cell LED is illuminated on my Hayward AquaRite 900 Portable Generator?
    • J
      Jose HallAug 28, 2025
      If the "Inspect Cell" LED is illuminated, make sure that the correct Turbo Cell model has been selected. Remove and inspect the cell for scale. If scale is present, follow the directions for cell cleaning. If the pool has the proper amount of salt and the "Inspect Cell" LED remains illuminated, the cell may be worn and require replacement.
  • D
    Dylan MolinaAug 31, 2025
    How to stop Inspect Cell LED flashing on Hayward Portable Generator?
    • O
      orobertsAug 31, 2025
      If the "Inspect Cell" LED is flashing, ensure that the correct Turbo Cell model has been selected. Inspect and clean the cell according to the provided directions. Once you're done, press the "diagnostic" button for 3 seconds to stop the "Inspect Cell" LED from flashing.
  • K
    Katherine KingSep 3, 2025
    Why is the Generating LED flashing on my Hayward Portable Generator?
    • P
      patriciamathewsSep 3, 2025
      The AquaRite will stop generating if the pool water temperature is too high or too low. To override this, switch the main switch to SUPER CHLORINATE. The AquaRite will then run at maximum output for the rest of the current pump cycle or for 24 hours, whichever comes first.
  • M
    Mr. Albert Smith MDSep 9, 2025
    How to fix Power LED not on Hayward AquaRite 900 Portable Generator?
    • A
      alyssagutierrezSep 9, 2025
      Check to ensure either 120VAC or 240VAC input power is connected to the proper screw terminals at the AquaRite control. Verify the input voltage using a voltmeter. If there is input power, the fuse may have blown. The AquaRite is protected by a 20 amp mini ATO fuse located on the circuit board above the cell connector.
  • M
    Miranda SmithSep 12, 2025
    What does '-Pcb-' displayed mean on Hayward Portable Generator?
    • O
      obrienkevinSep 12, 2025
      If -Pcb- is displayed and all 4 red/yellow LEDs are illuminated, a possible Printed Circuit Board fault has been detected. Call for service.

Summary

Important Safety Instructions

Operation and Model Selection

Water Chemistry and Balance

Recommended Water Chemistry Levels

Details ideal levels for salt, free chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness for pool sanitation.

Understanding the Saturation Index

Explains the Saturation Index (Si) and its importance in water balance to prevent corrosion or scaling.

Salt Level Management

Control Panel and Indicators

Main Switch Functions

Describes the AUTO, SUPER CHLORINATE, and OFF positions of the main switch for operation.

Understanding Indicator LEDs

Explains the meaning of each LED indicator on the AquaRite control panel.

Cell Type and Display Settings

Adjusting Chlorine Output

Explains how to use the "Desired Output %" knob to control chlorine generation.

System Maintenance and Winterization

Cell Inspection and Cleaning

Provides instructions for inspecting, flushing, scraping, and acid washing the cell.

Installation and Mounting Guidelines

Plumbing and Flow Control

Wiring for Standalone Operation

Grounding and Bonding Requirements

Explains the critical electrical grounding and bonding requirements for safety.

Troubleshooting Common LED Errors

Common LED Error Indicators

Explains troubleshooting for specific LED lights like "Check Salt", "High Salt", and "Inspect Cell".

Overview

This document is the owner's manual for the Hayward AquaRite 900 series Electronic Chlorine Generator, specifically models AQR940 and AQR925.

Function Description:

The AquaRite 900 series is an automatic chlorine generation system designed for pool and spa sanitation. It operates by converting a low concentration of salt (sodium chloride) in the pool water into free chlorine, which effectively kills bacteria and algae. This process continuously recycles the chlorine, reducing the need for manual addition of sanitizing chemicals. The system is suitable for residential swimming pools up to 40,000 gallons (150,000 liters) for the AQR940 model, and up to 25,000 gallons (95,000 liters) for the AQR925 model. The actual chlorination required varies based on bather load, rainfall, temperature, and pool cleanliness. Hayward explicitly states that the AquaRite is not recommended for generating bromine.

Important Safety Instructions:

The manual emphasizes several critical safety precautions. Users must read and follow all instructions, use only copper conductors, and disconnect all AC power during installation. Children should not operate the product without close supervision. Hayward salt systems are designed and certified as complete systems; using untested, uncertified generic cells or circuit boards with genuine Hayward products will void the warranty and can lead to premature product failure. A non-genuine Hayward replacement salt chlorination cell will void any applicable warranty. The device requires proper grounding to an "Earth Ground" terminal with a continuous copper wire and bonding to the local common bonding grid using an insulated or bare copper conductor (not smaller than 8 AWG US / 6 AWG Canada). All field-installed metal components within 3 meters of the pool, spa, or hot tub must also be bonded to the equipment grounding bus. The product must be used only in accordance with the label's directions, as using it under unsafe conditions is an offense under the Pest Control Products Act.

Important Technical Specifications:

The AquaRite 900 series is designed for 120/240 VAC power input. It includes a Turbo cell, flow switch, and cell unions for plumbing. The electrolytic cell and flow switch tee fitting are designed for 2" (51mm) PVC pipe, with adapters available for 1½" (38 mm) plumbing. The control unit is housed in a raintight enclosure suitable for outdoor mounting, requiring a minimum horizontal distance of 5 ft. (2 meters) from the pool/spa. It must be mounted vertically on a flat surface with knockouts facing downward, ensuring the four sides are not blocked to allow for heat dissipation. The AquaRite is protected by a 20 amp mini ATO fuse located on the circuit board.

Water Chemistry Recommendations:

Maintaining proper water chemistry is crucial for the AquaRite's performance and longevity. Recommended ideal levels (per The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals - APSP) include:

  • Salt: 2700 to 3400 ppm (3200 ppm optimal)
  • Free Chlorine: 1.0 to 3.0 ppm
  • pH: 7.2 to 7.8
  • Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer): 30 to 50 ppm for outdoor pools, 0 ppm for indoor pools
  • Total Alkalinity: 80 to 120 ppm
  • Calcium Hardness: 200 to 400 ppm
  • Metals: 0 ppm
  • Saturation Index (Si): -0.2 to 0.2 (0 best). The Si indicates water balance; values below -0.2 suggest corrosive water, while values above +0.2 indicate scaling and staining risk.

Usage Features:

The AquaRite features a Main Switch with three positions:

  • AUTO: For normal operation, chlorine is produced according to the "Desired Output %" setting during the filtering/pumping cycle.
  • SUPER CHLORINATE: Electronically "super chlorinates" (shocks) the water for 24 hours to address high bather loads, heavy rain, or cloudy water conditions. The filter pump must be on during this time.
  • OFF: Prevents the electrolytic cell from energizing and stops chlorine generation. Power should be turned off at the circuit breaker for servicing.

Indicator LEDs:

  • POWER: Illuminates when the AquaRite has input power.
  • GENERATING: Steady when operating normally; flashes if pool water is too hot or cold to operate.
  • SUPER CHLORINATE: Illuminates during super-chlorination.
  • REMOTELY CONTROLLED: Illuminates when a remote pool automation control (e.g., Hayward Pro Logic, Pentair Intellitouch, Polaris Eos) is controlling the AquaRite, disabling the main switch and "Desired Output %" adjustment. Flashes if the automation control is in SERVICE or TIME-OUT mode, reactivating local controls.
  • NO FLOW: Illuminates when the flow switch detects no water flow, stopping chlorine generation. Flashing indicates a 15-60 second time delay.
  • CHECK SALT: Flashes when salt level is low (below 2700 ppm), indicating low efficiency. Illuminates steady when salt level is too low, shutting down the AquaRite.
  • HIGH SALT: Illuminates when salt level is too high, shutting down the AquaRite.
  • INSPECT CELL: Flashes to indicate reduced cell efficiency or scheduled inspection. Illuminates steady when cell efficiency is greatly reduced, stopping chlorine production, and requiring inspection, cleaning, or replacement.

User Interface and Settings:

  • Turbo Cell Type Setting: The AquaRite must be configured for the specific chlorinator cell used (t-3, t-5, t-9, t-15). This is done via the Main Switch and Diagnostic button.
  • "Desired Output %" Adjustment Knob: Controls the amount of chlorine generated.
  • Salt Display: Shows the average salt level of the pool water in ppm (default) or g/l (metric).
  • Temperature Display: Shows the current pool water temperature in °F (default) or °C (metric).
  • Instant Salinity: Displays the measured salt level at that moment, useful for observing immediate changes after adding salt.
  • Diagnostic Displays: Sequential pushes of the diagnostic button show pool temperature, cell voltage, cell current, desired output %, instant salinity, product name, software revision level, and chlorinator cell type.

Plumbing and Installation:

The flow switch and cell should be plumbed in the return line to the pool/spa, preferably downstream of all other pool equipment (filter, heater, solar). Specific configurations (#2 or #3) are recommended for pool/spa combination systems with spillover to prevent over-chlorination during "spa only" operation. A minimum of 12" (25cm) straight pipe run is required before the flow switch, and the arrow on the flow switch must point in the direction of water flow. Unions for the electrolytic cell should be tightened by hand.

Wiring:

The AquaRite can be wired for stand-alone operation to the LOAD SIDE of the filter pump timer, or directly to 120/240VAC power when used with Hayward, Pentair, or Polaris automation controls. Jumpers on the PCB configure the unit for 120VAC or 240VAC. For Canadian models, the AquaRite must be connected to a circuit protected by a Class A ground fault interrupter. The electrolytic cell and flow switch cables connect to specific ports on the bottom of the enclosure. For automation controls, a 4-wire connection is used, and one AquaRite unit must be configured as "primary" while others are "secondary."

Maintenance Features:

  • Cell Inspection: Recommended every 3 months or after cleaning the filter. The "Inspect Cell" LED flashes after approximately 500 hours of operation to remind the user. Pressing the diagnostic button for 3 seconds resets this timer.
  • Cell Cleaning: The AquaRite has a self-cleaning feature. However, in areas with hard water or unbalanced chemistry, periodic manual cleaning may be needed. Deposits can be flushed with a high-pressure garden hose or scraped with a plastic/wood tool.
  • Mild Acid Washing: For severe scale, a 4:1 solution of water to muriatic acid can be used. Always add acid to water, wear protective gear, and ensure the wire harness compartment is not submerged. Soak for a few minutes, then rinse.
  • Winterizing: The electrolytic cell and flow switch must be drained of water in freezing conditions to prevent damage. The electronic control unit does not need to be removed.
  • Spring Start-up: Do not turn on the AquaRite until pool water chemistry is balanced to recommended levels.

Troubleshooting:

The manual provides solutions for common problems such as the "Power" LED not being on (check power, fuse), "Generating" LED flashing (water temperature too high/low), "No Flow" LED illuminated (check flow switch connection, pipe run, flow direction), "Check Salt" LED (low salt), "High Salt" LED (high salt), and "Inspect Cell" LED (reduced cell efficiency, scale, or worn cell). It also addresses the display of "-Pcb-" and all 4 red/yellow LEDs illuminated, indicating a possible Printed Circuit Board fault requiring service. A table outlines basic pool maintenance requirements for free chlorine, pH, alkalinity, salt, stabilizer, calcium, and electrolytic cell inspection/cleaning.

Warranty:

Hayward offers a limited warranty (effective 02/12/16) for its AquaRite 900 series chlorination products. Private residential swimming pools in the US and Canada receive a four (4) year warranty for defects in materials and workmanship. Commercial pools in the US and Canada receive a one (1) year warranty. All accessories and replacement parts have a one (1) year warranty. The warranty is not transferable and applies only to the original owner. Proof of purchase is required for warranty service. Exclusions include damage from improper installation (including on pools larger than the product rating), failure to operate/maintain according to the manual, failure to maintain pool water chemistry, tampering, accidents, abuse, negligence, unauthorized repairs, environmental factors (fire, flood, lightning, freezing, external water, degradation of natural stone), and the use of non-genuine Hayward replacement salt chlorination cells. The manual also details a 90-day extended warranty available upon product registration via smartphone or online.

Hayward AquaRite 900 Series Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandHayward
ModelAquaRite 900 Series
CategoryPortable Generator
LanguageEnglish

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