Hayward TurboCell Salt Chlorination Cell 20,000 Gallons
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✓ Includes Manufacturer Warranty
✓ Installation Available Upon Request
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Hayward TurboCell W3GLX-CELL-5 Salt Chlorination Cell for Pools Up to 20,000 Gallons
The W3GLX-CELL-5 is the genuine OEM Hayward TurboCell replacement cell at the 20,000-gallon tier. It is the current production replacement for the discontinued T-CELL-5 and GLX-CELL-5, and installs without reconfiguration when swapping out an existing cell of either of those models. It is compatible with both above-ground and in-ground pools when paired with a supported Hayward controller.
This is a cell-only purchase. A compatible Hayward controller is required for operation and is sold separately.
Hayward W3GLX-CELL-5 TurboCell Key Features
- 20,000-gallon capacity - Sits between the W3T-CELL-3 (15,000 gal.) and the W3T-CELL-9 (25,000 gal.) in the TurboCell lineup. A good fit for pools in the 16,000 to 20,000 gallon range where the W3T-CELL-3 would run at or near full output continuously.
- Direct replacement for T-CELL-5 and GLX-CELL-5 - Installs without reconfiguration when swapping an existing cell of either discontinued model.
- Automatic reverse-polarity self-cleaning - The controller periodically reverses the electrode current to dislodge calcium scale, reducing manual cleaning frequency and extending cell life.
- Coated titanium electrode blades - Resist corrosion and maintain performance across years of continuous pool water exposure.
- 15 ft cord included - Connects directly to a compatible Hayward controller.
- Above-ground and in-ground compatible - Designed for AquaTrol above-ground systems but works equally well in in-ground pools with supported controllers.
- NSF certified - Independently certified for chlorine output performance and material safety.
Hayward W3GLX-CELL-5 TurboCell Specifications
Control unit sold separately. This is a replacement cell only.
Hayward TurboCell Model Comparison: W3GLX-CELL-5 in the TurboCell Lineup
The W3GLX-CELL-5 fills the 20,000-gallon gap between the W3T-CELL-3 and W3T-CELL-9. Note that the GLX-CELL-5 series uses a different controller configuration pathway than the W3T-CELL series.
| Model | Max Pool Size | Pool Type | Cord Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| W3T-CELL-3 | 15,000 gal. | In-ground | 15 ft |
| W3GLX-CELL-5 (this model) | 20,000 gal. | Above-ground and in-ground | 15 ft |
| W3T-CELL-9 | 25,000 gal. | In-ground | 15 ft |
| W3T-CELL-15 | 40,000 gal. | In-ground | 15 ft |
Installing the Hayward W3GLX-CELL-5 TurboCell: Replacement Overview
When replacing an existing T-CELL-5 or GLX-CELL-5, installation is a straightforward swap using the existing union fittings and cord connector. When installing into an AquaRite or ProLogic system for the first time, controller configuration is required before startup.
- Shut off the pump and controller before touching the cell or plumbing.
- Disconnect the cord from the old cell and unscrew the union fittings at each end. Have a bucket ready for residual water.
- Install the W3GLX-CELL-5 into the existing unions, matching the flow-direction arrow on the cell body to your water flow direction.
- Connect the 15 ft cord to the controller and tighten the connector collar until snug.
- If your controller requires configuration for the GLX-CELL-5, complete that step before restarting the pump. Refer to your controller's owner's manual.
- Restart the pump, check for plumbing leaks, then power on the controller. Verify the salt reading on the display and adjust output as needed.
Hayward W3GLX-CELL-5 TurboCell Frequently Asked Questions
Is the W3GLX-CELL-5 a direct replacement for the T-CELL-5?
Yes. The W3GLX-CELL-5 is the current production replacement for the discontinued T-CELL-5 and GLX-CELL-5. When swapping one of those cells, no controller reconfiguration is needed. The cell uses the same plumbing unions and cord connector as the models it replaces.
Does the W3GLX-CELL-5 require controller reconfiguration?
It depends on the existing setup. No reconfiguration is needed when replacing an existing T-CELL-5 or GLX-CELL-5. Reconfiguration is required when installing this cell into an AquaRite (firmware 1.5+), AquaRite Pro, AquaPlus, or ProLogic system that previously used a different cell type. Skipping this step causes inaccurate salt readings and possible system shutdown. The configuration procedure is detailed in your controller's owner's manual under the GLX-CELL-5 section.
Is the W3GLX-CELL-5 compatible with in-ground pools?
Yes. Although the GLX-CELL-5 line was originally designed for AquaTrol above-ground systems, the W3GLX-CELL-5 works equally well with in-ground pools when paired with a supported Hayward controller. Verify your controller model is on the compatibility list before ordering.
How does the W3GLX-CELL-5 differ from the W3T-CELL-9?
Both cover pools larger than 15,000 gallons, but they are different product lines. The W3GLX-CELL-5 covers up to 20,000 gallons and originated in the AquaTrol above-ground line, requiring controller configuration in some AquaRite setups. The W3T-CELL-9 covers up to 25,000 gallons and is a plug-in replacement in AquaRite systems (firmware 1.5+ required). If your pool is between 20,000 and 25,000 gallons, the W3T-CELL-9 is generally the simpler choice for AquaRite installations.
How do I manually clean the W3GLX-CELL-5 electrode blades?
Remove the cell from the plumbing and inspect the blades for white calcium deposits. Soak the electrode end in a diluted muriatic acid solution (4 parts water to 1 part acid) for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly before reinstalling. Never use metal tools or abrasives on the electrode blades. Manual cleaning is typically needed once per season or when the controller reports reduced output despite proper salt levels.
What salt type should I use with the W3GLX-CELL-5?
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 salts containing anti-caking agents such as sodium ferrocyanide. Most pool supply retailers stock appropriate pool-grade salt in 40 to 50 lb bags.