How Do I Reset My Hayward Salt Cell?

When it comes to maintaining your pool, there are a few essential components you need to keep an eye on. One of these is the salt cell, which is responsible for generating chlorine from salt. Over time, your Hayward salt cell can become clogged or coated with calcium, which can reduce its effectiveness. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to reset your Hayward salt cell so that you can keep your pool sparkling clean.

Step 1: Turn off the Power

The first and most important step in resetting your Hayward salt cell is to turn off the power to your pool. This is essential to ensure your safety and prevent any damage to your equipment. Locate your pool’s circuit breaker and switch it off, or unplug the power cord from the outlet. If you’re not sure where your pool’s power source is located, consult your owner’s manual or contact a professional.

Step 2: Remove the Salt Cell

Next, you’ll need to remove the salt cell from your pool’s plumbing. This can usually be done by unscrewing the union nuts on either side of the cell. If your cell is located in a hard-to-reach area, you may need to use a wrench or pliers to loosen the nuts. Once the nuts are removed, gently pull the cell out of the plumbing and set it aside.

Step 3: Clean the Salt Cell

With the salt cell removed, it’s time to clean it thoroughly. There are a few different methods for cleaning a Hayward salt cell, but one of the most effective is to soak it in a solution of muriatic acid and water. Mix one part acid to ten parts water in a plastic container, then submerge the cell in the solution for around 30 minutes. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when handling muriatic acid, and work in a well-ventilated area.

After the cell has soaked, remove it from the solution and rinse it thoroughly with clean water. You may need to use a brush or scraper to remove any stubborn buildup or deposits. Once the cell is clean, inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any cracks or other damage, it may be time to replace the cell altogether.

Step 4: Reinstall the Salt Cell

With the salt cell cleaned and inspected, it’s time to reinstall it in your pool’s plumbing. Carefully slide the cell back into the plumbing, making sure to align the union nuts properly. Use a wrench or pliers to tighten the nuts snugly, but be careful not to overtighten them. Once the cell is securely in place, you can turn the power back on to your pool.

Step 5: Reset the Salt Cell

Finally, you’ll need to reset your Hayward salt cell to ensure it’s working properly. Depending on your model of cell, this may involve pressing a button or flipping a switch on the control panel. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to reset your particular salt cell. Once the cell is reset, you should see chlorine production resume within a few hours.

Conclusion

Resetting your Hayward salt cell is a simple process that can help keep your pool clean and healthy. By following these steps and cleaning your cell regularly, you can ensure that it’s working at peak efficiency and producing plenty of chlorine for your pool. If you have any questions or concerns about resetting your salt cell, be sure to consult your owner’s manual or contact a professional for assistance.

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Frequently Asked Questions for How Do I Reset My Hayward Salt Cell?

1. What is a Hayward salt cell and why do I need to reset it?

A Hayward salt cell is an essential component of a salt chlorination system that generates chlorine from salt and water. Over time, the cell can become clogged with calcium and other minerals, leading to decreased efficiency and the need for a reset.

2. How do I know when it’s time to reset my Hayward salt cell?

If you notice that your pool water is cloudy or has a strong chlorine smell, it may be time to reset your salt cell. Another sign is when the salt level in your pool is consistently high, even though you haven’t added any salt recently.

3. What is the process for resetting my Hayward salt cell?

To reset your Hayward salt cell, you will need to turn off the power to the system, clean the cell using a salt cell cleaner or a mixture of muriatic acid and water, and then perform a hard reset by pressing and holding the diagnostic button on the control panel for several seconds. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging the cell or the system.

4. How often should I reset my Hayward salt cell?

The frequency of resetting your Hayward salt cell will depend on a variety of factors, such as the size of your pool, the level of usage, and the quality of your water. However, it’s generally recommended to reset the cell every 3-6 months or as needed based on the signs mentioned above.