Hayward Aqua Plus Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
Hayward’s Aqua Plus systems, alongside Pro Logic, offer data retrieval and storage via the AQ-CO-HOMENET AquaConnect unit, integrating with time series databases․
This manual details operation, installation, and troubleshooting for private pools up to 65m³, utilizing an electrolytic cell for sanitation and pH/ORP control․
The Hayward Aqua Plus represents a significant advancement in automated pool sanitation, offering a comprehensive solution for maintaining pristine water quality with minimal effort․ Designed for private pools, with a capacity of up to 65 cubic meters, this system utilizes advanced electrolytic cell technology to generate chlorine directly from salt, providing a gentler and more consistent sanitizing experience compared to traditional methods․
Aqua Plus seamlessly integrates with Hayward’s Pro Logic systems and leverages the AquaConnect networking unit (AQ-CO-HOMENET) for remote monitoring and control․ This connectivity allows pool owners to access vital data, including pH and ORP levels, and adjust settings from anywhere with an internet connection․ The system’s capabilities extend to data logging and compatibility with various time series databases, enabling detailed analysis of pool chemistry over time․
This manual serves as a complete guide to understanding, installing, operating, and maintaining your Hayward Aqua Plus system, ensuring optimal performance and longevity․ Always prioritize safety and adhere to the provided precautions to prevent injury or damage․
Understanding the Aqua Plus System Components
The Hayward Aqua Plus system comprises several key components working in harmony to deliver automated pool sanitation․ Central to the system is the electrolytic cell, responsible for converting salt into chlorine․ This cell requires periodic cleaning to maintain optimal efficiency, as detailed in the maintenance section․
The control panel serves as the system’s brain, allowing users to monitor and adjust chlorine output levels, pH, and Oxidation-Reduction Potential (ORP)․ For enhanced connectivity, the AquaConnect unit (AQ-CO-HOMENET) facilitates remote access and data logging․ The RX Hayward AC Kit, including the chip, electrode, and holder, is crucial for accurate water chemistry readings․
Furthermore, the optional Wi-Fi module (AQR-PLUS-WIFI4) expands connectivity options․ Understanding the interplay between these components – from the cell to the control panel and networking modules – is essential for effective system operation and troubleshooting․
Safety Precautions and Warnings
Hayward prioritizes user safety with the Aqua Plus system․ Important: Failure to adhere to these instructions can result in personal injury․ Always disconnect power before performing any maintenance or servicing․ The system operates with electrical components and water, creating potential hazards․
Ensure all electrical connections are performed by a qualified electrician, adhering to local codes․ Never operate the system with a damaged cord or plug․ Avoid contact with the electrolytic cell while the system is running․
Chemical handling requires caution; always follow manufacturer’s instructions for any supplemental chemicals used․ This equipment is designed for private pools only․ Read the complete manual before operation to understand all safety guidelines and warnings․ Hayward Pool Europe emphasizes responsible operation for a safe and enjoyable pool experience․

Installation and Setup
Proper installation involves initial system setup, careful electrical connections performed by a qualified electrician, and secure plumbing connections for optimal performance․
Initial System Setup
Before commencing installation, thoroughly review all provided documentation, including the Hayward AquaRite Plus manual, to understand system requirements and safety guidelines․ Ensure the unit is installed in a well-ventilated, dry location, protected from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures․ Verify that the plumbing connections are compatible with your pool’s existing system and that all necessary fittings are readily available․
Prior to electrical connection, confirm the voltage matches your local power supply․ It’s crucial to properly ground the system to prevent electrical hazards․ After plumbing is connected, carefully inspect for leaks․ Initial startup involves filling the salt cell housing with water before powering on the unit; Allow the system to initialize and follow the on-screen prompts for initial configuration, including setting the pool size and desired chlorine output․

Remember to always adhere to Hayward’s recommendations for optimal performance and longevity of the equipment․
Electrical Connections
Critical safety warning: Electrical work must be performed by a qualified electrician, adhering to all local and national electrical codes․ Before making any connections, always disconnect power to the circuit breaker․ Verify the voltage supplied matches the unit’s specifications – incorrect voltage can cause severe damage․
The Hayward Aqua Plus requires a dedicated circuit․ Connect the power cable, ensuring proper grounding to prevent electrical shock․ Double-check all connections for tightness and secure wiring․ Use appropriate conduit and weatherproof fittings for outdoor installations․
When connecting to a gas pool heater in a parallel operation, consult the Hayward wiring manual for specific instructions to avoid interference․ After completing the electrical connections, carefully inspect all wiring before restoring power․ A properly grounded and correctly wired system is essential for safe and reliable operation․

Plumbing Connections
Proper plumbing is crucial for the Hayward Aqua Plus system’s efficient operation․ Ensure all plumbing lines are clean and free of debris before connecting․ The unit requires connections for water inlet and outlet, typically using 1․5” or 2” PVC piping, depending on your pool’s circulation system․
Use appropriate PVC cement and primer for secure, leak-proof joints․ Avoid over-tightening fittings, which can cause cracking․ The cell should be installed in a bypass configuration, allowing for easy removal for cleaning or maintenance without interrupting pool circulation․
Verify the direction of water flow matches the arrows indicated on the unit․ Incorrect flow direction can damage the electrolytic cell․ Regularly inspect all plumbing connections for leaks and address them promptly to prevent water loss and potential damage to the system or surrounding areas․

Operation and Control
The Hayward Aqua Plus allows control of pH and ORP levels, essential for maintaining water quality․ Utilize the control panel for adjustments and monitoring․
Understanding the Control Panel
The Hayward Aqua Plus control panel serves as the central hub for managing your pool’s sanitation system․ It provides a user-friendly interface to monitor and adjust key parameters, ensuring optimal water quality․ Familiarize yourself with the various indicators and buttons to effectively operate the system․
Typically, the control panel displays crucial information such as chlorine output levels, cell voltage, and any active error codes․ Buttons allow you to adjust the chlorine production rate – often selectable between low, medium, and high settings, with Hayward recommending high speed for optimal performance․
The panel also facilitates monitoring of pH and Oxidation-Reduction Potential (ORP) levels, vital for balanced water chemistry․ Understanding these readings allows for precise adjustments, maintaining a safe and comfortable swimming environment․ Refer to the manual for specific interpretations of displayed values and corresponding corrective actions․
Adjusting Chlorine Output Levels

Hayward Aqua Plus systems offer adjustable chlorine output to accommodate varying pool usage and environmental conditions․ The control panel allows you to select from multiple output levels, typically designated as low, medium, and high․ Increasing the output boosts chlorine production, ideal during periods of heavy use or intense sunlight․
When initially setting chlorine levels, start with the recommended setting for your pool size and gradually adjust based on regular water testing․ Hayward generally advises utilizing the high speed setting for consistent sanitation․ Monitor chlorine levels closely after any adjustment, ensuring they remain within the ideal range of 1-3 ppm․
Remember that factors like water temperature, bather load, and rainfall influence chlorine demand․ Regularly test and adjust the output accordingly to maintain a safe and sparkling clean pool․ Consult the manual for detailed guidance on determining the appropriate output level for your specific needs․
Monitoring pH and ORP Levels
Hayward Aqua Plus systems enable precise monitoring of both pH and Oxidation-Reduction Potential (ORP) levels, crucial for optimal water quality and swimmer comfort․ The control panel displays real-time readings, allowing for proactive adjustments to maintain ideal chemical balance․
pH levels should be maintained between 7․2 and 7․8․ Low pH can cause corrosion and irritation, while high pH reduces chlorine effectiveness․ ORP measures the water’s ability to sanitize; a reading between 650mV and 750mV indicates sufficient disinfection․
Regularly test pH and ORP using a reliable test kit to verify the accuracy of the system’s readings․ Adjust chemical additions as needed to correct any imbalances․ Proper pH and ORP control maximizes chlorine efficiency, minimizes chemical usage, and ensures a healthy swimming environment․

Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Hayward Aqua Plus requires regular cell cleaning, and attention to error codes for optimal performance․ Winterizing procedures are also essential for system longevity and protection․
Cell Cleaning Procedures
Maintaining a clean electrolytic cell is crucial for the efficient operation of your Hayward Aqua Plus system․ Scale buildup significantly reduces chlorine generation, impacting water sanitation․ Hayward recommends always using a high flow rate during operation to minimize scaling․ Regular inspection of the cell is vital; look for visible scale or debris․
To clean the cell, first, always disconnect the power to the unit․ Remove the cell from the plumbing assembly․ A mild acid solution, specifically designed for salt chlorine generators, is recommended․ Follow the acid manufacturer’s instructions carefully, ensuring proper dilution and safety precautions․ Submerge the cell in the solution for the recommended time, typically 15-20 minutes, depending on the scale buildup․
After soaking, rinse the cell thoroughly with clean water․ Inspect for any remaining scale and repeat the process if necessary․ Never use metal brushes or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the cell plates․ Once clean, reinstall the cell, ensuring proper sealing to prevent leaks․ Reconnect the power and verify proper operation․
Troubleshooting Common Error Codes
The Hayward Aqua Plus system utilizes error codes to diagnose potential issues․ Understanding these codes is vital for efficient troubleshooting․ A common issue involves low flow, indicated by a specific error code, requiring verification of pump operation and filter cleanliness․ Another frequent error relates to cell performance, potentially signaling the need for cell cleaning as described in the maintenance section․
Refer to the system’s manual for a complete list of error codes and their corresponding solutions․ Some codes may indicate electrical issues, necessitating professional assistance․ Always disconnect power before inspecting electrical components․ Hayward provides a Russian-language troubleshooting guide as well, but ensure you consult the English manual for accurate interpretation․
If an error persists after attempting troubleshooting steps, contact a qualified pool technician․ Ignoring error codes can lead to system damage or compromised water quality․ Regularly checking the control panel for error messages is a proactive maintenance practice․
Winterizing the Aqua Plus System
Proper winterization is crucial to protect your Hayward Aqua Plus system from freeze damage․ Begin by disconnecting the power supply to the unit․ Thoroughly flush the system with a winterizing solution, ensuring it reaches all plumbing lines and the electrolytic cell․ Drain all water from the cell housing and associated pipes – this prevents cracking due to ice expansion․
Remove the cell and store it in a dry, frost-free location․ Consider blowing out the plumbing lines with compressed air to remove any remaining water․ Inspect O-rings and seals, replacing them if necessary․ Hayward recommends covering the entire unit to shield it from the elements․
Before spring startup, re-install the cell and inspect all connections․ Always consult the full manual for detailed instructions specific to your Aqua Plus model․

Advanced Features & Connectivity
Hayward Aqua Plus systems, when paired with the AquaConnect unit, enable remote monitoring and data logging, utilizing time series databases for comprehensive analysis․
AquaConnect and Remote Monitoring
The Hayward AquaConnect system, specifically the AQ-CO-HOMENET unit, represents a significant advancement in pool management capabilities for Aqua Plus and Pro Logic systems․ This networking unit facilitates seamless data retrieval directly from your pool equipment․
This retrieved data isn’t simply displayed; it’s designed to be stored and analyzed within a variety of time series databases․ This allows pool operators to track performance trends, identify potential issues proactively, and optimize chemical usage for efficiency and cost savings․
Remote monitoring capabilities empower users to oversee their pool’s operation from virtually anywhere with an internet connection․ This provides peace of mind and reduces the need for frequent on-site checks, especially during periods of absence or inclement weather․ The AquaConnect system effectively brings the control panel to your fingertips, regardless of location․
Data Logging and Time Series Databases
Hayward Aqua Plus systems, when paired with the AQ-CO-HOMENET AquaConnect unit, excel in data logging and integration with time series databases․ This functionality moves beyond simple monitoring, enabling comprehensive analysis of pool equipment performance over time․

The system meticulously records key parameters, allowing users to visualize trends in chlorine output, pH levels, ORP readings, and other critical metrics․ This historical data is invaluable for identifying patterns, diagnosing potential problems, and optimizing system settings for peak efficiency․
Compatibility with various time series databases provides flexibility in data storage and analysis․ Operators can leverage these databases to generate reports, create custom dashboards, and gain deeper insights into their pool’s operational characteristics․ This data-driven approach promotes proactive maintenance and reduces the risk of unexpected issues․
Wi-Fi Module Installation (AQR-PLUS-WIFI4)
Hayward offers the AQR-PLUS-WIFI4 module to enhance Aqua Plus connectivity, enabling remote monitoring and control via Wi-Fi․ Installation requires careful attention to ensure proper functionality and a secure connection․
The module typically connects to the Aqua Plus control system via a designated port․ Detailed instructions, found within the full manual, guide users through the physical installation process, emphasizing correct cable routing and secure fastening․
Post-installation, configuration through the AquaConnect interface is crucial․ This involves connecting the module to your local Wi-Fi network, ensuring a stable signal strength for reliable communication․ Successful setup unlocks remote access to system data and control features, allowing for convenient pool management from anywhere with an internet connection․

Technical Specifications
Hayward AquaRite Plus models vary; the RX Hayward AC Kit includes a chip, electrode, and holder․ Detailed specifications are available in the user manual․
AquaRite Plus Model Specifications
Hayward’s AquaRite Plus series encompasses various models designed for diverse pool volumes and operational needs․ Referencing the complete user manual is crucial for pinpointing the exact specifications of your particular AquaRite Plus unit, as details differ between revisions․
Generally, these systems are engineered for private pools, effectively managing sanitation through electrolytic salt chlorination․ The AquaRite Plus utilizes a specialized cell to convert dissolved salt into chlorine, providing consistent and reliable water purification․ Key specifications include the cell’s capacity, measured in amperage, and its suitability for pool sizes up to 65 cubic meters․
Furthermore, the system’s operational voltage and power consumption are vital specifications․ Understanding these parameters is essential for proper electrical connections and energy efficiency․ The manual details these values, alongside information regarding the recommended salt level for optimal performance․ Always consult the manual for your specific model to ensure correct setup and operation․
RX Hayward AC Kit (Chip, Electrode & Holder)
The Hayward RX AC Kit is a critical component for maintaining the functionality of your Aqua Plus system, specifically relating to accurate water chemistry monitoring and control․ This kit comprises three essential elements: a specialized chip, a robust electrode, and a secure holder․
The electrode is the sensor that directly measures pH and ORP (oxidation-reduction potential) levels in the pool water․ The chip processes the signal from the electrode, transmitting accurate data to the control panel․ The holder ensures the electrode remains securely positioned within the flow cell for consistent readings․
Regular replacement of the RX AC Kit is vital for maintaining the precision of your Aqua Plus system․ The kit is priced at 24,252 (currency unspecified in source), with a reduction of -20% from a previous price of 19,402․ Proper installation, as detailed in the manual, is crucial for reliable performance․
Parallel Operation with Gas Pool Heaters
Hayward provides guidance on wiring gas pool heaters for parallel operation alongside the Aqua Plus system, ensuring efficient and reliable pool heating․ This configuration allows both the heater and the Aqua Plus chlorinator to function simultaneously, optimizing pool water temperature and sanitation․
The manual emphasizes the importance of following specific wiring instructions to avoid damaging either the heater or the Aqua Plus control system․ Proper wiring ensures that the heater operates correctly without interfering with the chlorination process․ Hayward recommends always utilizing a high flow rate during parallel operation for optimal performance․
Detailed diagrams and instructions are available within the full manual (PL-PLUS-16V Operation, 1․3MB file size) to assist with this process․ Incorrect installation could void warranties and compromise safety, so careful adherence to the provided guidelines is essential․



