Hayward AquaRite Salt Chlorination System 25,000 Gallons
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✓ Includes Manufacturer Warranty
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Hayward AquaRite W3AQR9 Salt Chlorination System for In-Ground Pools Up to 25,000 Gallons
The W3AQR9 is a complete kit for converting an existing in-ground pool to salt chlorination. Everything needed for a standard installation is in the box: no separate cell purchase, no sourcing parts from multiple suppliers.
The system taps into your existing return line after the pump and filter. No additional plumbing runs required.
W3AQR9 Complete Kit Contents: Control Unit, TurboCell, and Hardware
- AquaRite 900 series control unit
- W3T-CELL-9 TurboCell (rated for pools up to 25,000 gallons)
- Flow switch
- Plumbing hardware kit
Hayward AquaRite W3AQR9 Key Features
- Adjustable output (0-100%) - Dial chlorine production up or down based on pool demand without buying extra chemicals.
- Superchlorinate function - Boosts output to 100% for 24 hours to handle algae, heavy bather loads, or post-storm recovery. Returns to normal automatically.
- Automatic cell self-cleaning - The controller periodically reverses electrode polarity to dislodge calcium scale, extending cell life in hard-water areas.
- Dual voltage (120V/240V) - Same unit accepts both voltages; no transformer swap needed.
- Digital LED display - Shows salt level, output percentage, water temperature, and specific diagnostic codes for fault conditions.
- Weatherproof enclosure - Rated for permanent outdoor installation; mounts directly to the wall at the equipment pad.
- Automation compatible - Integrates with Hayward ProLogic, AquaLogic, and OmniLogic platforms if you add automation later.
- NSF + ETL certified - NSF certified per NSF/ANSI Standard 50 for chlorine delivery rates; ETL safety certified for electrical components.
How the AquaRite W3AQR9 Converts Pool Salt into Chlorine
Pool water passes through the W3T-CELL-9 TurboCell in your return line. A low-voltage DC current from the control unit splits dissolved salt molecules via electrolysis, producing hypochlorous acid (active chlorine) directly in the water. After sanitizing, the chlorine converts back to salt and the cycle repeats. Salt is not consumed; only small periodic top-ups are needed to replace what leaves through splash-out, backwashing, and rain dilution.
Target salt level is 3,200 ppm (operating range 2,400 to 3,400 ppm). At that concentration, most swimmers cannot taste or smell the salt.
Because salt-generated chlorine produces no cyanuric acid carrier or chloramine byproducts, the water typically feels softer and is less irritating to eyes and skin than pools dosed with trichlor tablets.
Hayward AquaRite W3AQR9 Specifications
AquaRite Salt System Comparison: W3AQR9 vs W3AQR3 vs W3AQR15
All three open-line AquaRite kits use the same AquaRite 900 control unit. Only the included TurboCell size differs.
| Model | Max Pool Size | Included Cell | Max Daily Output |
|---|---|---|---|
| W3AQR9 (this model) | 25,000 gal. | W3T-CELL-9 | 0.75 lbs/day |
| W3AQR3 | 15,000 gal. | W3T-CELL-3 | 0.53 lbs/day |
| W3AQR15 | 40,000 gal. | W3T-CELL-15 | 1.47 lbs/day |
Hayward AquaRite W3AQR9 Frequently Asked Questions
Does the W3AQR9 work with above-ground pools?
No. The W3AQR9 is rated for in-ground pools only. For above-ground pools, Hayward makes the AquaTrol line, which is designed for the lower flow rates and plumbing configurations of above-ground setups.
Can I upgrade to a larger TurboCell later without replacing the control unit?
Yes. The AquaRite 900 control unit is compatible with the W3T-CELL-3, W3T-CELL-9, and W3T-CELL-15. If your pool volume grows beyond 25,000 gallons, replace only the cell. The control unit detects the installed cell size automatically.
Do I still need to add other chemicals to a salt pool?
Yes. The AquaRite handles chlorination only. pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and cyanuric acid still need to be monitored and adjusted. pH tends to rise gradually in salt pools due to sodium hydroxide produced during electrolysis, so periodic acid additions are standard practice.
What type of salt should I use?
Use high-purity sodium chloride (NaCl) at 99.8% purity or better: pool salt, evaporated granulated salt, or non-iodized food-grade salt. Avoid iodized salt, potassium chloride, rock salt with organic debris, and any salt containing anti-caking agents such as sodium ferrocyanide, which can stain pool surfaces.
What does the "Check Cell" alert mean?
It is a maintenance reminder that activates after approximately 500 cumulative hours of operation, not necessarily a fault. Inspect and clean the cell, then reset the alert per the instructions in the owner's manual. If it reappears quickly after resetting, or if chlorine output has dropped, scale buildup or a failing cell should be investigated.
Can the W3AQR9 connect to a Hayward automation system?
Yes. The AquaRite 900 integrates with Hayward ProLogic, AquaLogic, and OmniLogic platforms via a dedicated data cable. No additional hardware is required beyond the automation system itself.