The AquaTrol is an above ground pool salt chlorine generator that can chlorinate a pool up to 18,000 gallons. The AquaTrol design is a modified version of hayward’s ultra popular and dependable AquaRite inground pool system. Above ground pools have varying installation quirks which mean the Aquatrol must be equally as versatile in its application. To be effective, a salt generator must be able to accommodate different pipe types, pool sizes, and deck obstructions.
The Aquatrol is available in four variations: AQ-TROL-RJ, AQ-TROL-RJ-TL, AQ-TROL-HP, AQ-TROL-HP-TL. These model variations allow the homeowner to find the best choice for their application. Likely, those model numbers look like gobbledygook to you, but after this blog, all will be understood.
HP or RJ
The Aquatrol offers two ways to mount the cell to your plumbing lines: Return Jet (RJ) or Hose/Pipe (HP). The RJ-style is designed with adapters for flex hose commonly used on above ground pools. The RJ is mounted vertically under the return jet with an elbow hooking into the return line. Because of the unique vertical installation the RJ style does not require a flow switch; this is because the vertical mount helps vent any gas that may be created during the salt cell’s operation. Since the RJ model does not need a flow switch this system is roughly $150 less than the HP model and would be my recommendation based on the cost savings.
The HP style is designed to be installed directly into 1-¼”, 1-½” or 2” pvc pipe or pool hose. The HP model can be installed in either the vertical or horizontal position; though Hayward prefers the HP be installed horizontally. The package also includes the flow switch to protect the cell and detect proper waterflow. If installing horizontally, the flow switch is a MUST to keep your salt generator working properly.
In my opinion both the RJ and HP model are equal in quality, it really comes down to which mounting style is easier for your particular configuration. If you can go with either mounting style then I would suggest the RJ model because of the big cost savings.
Power Plug Type
The Aquatrol power plug is available in two styles: Standard Three-Prong and Twist-Lock. Standard three prong is your run-of-the-mill plug found on heavy duty extension cords or power hungry household appliances. Most households will only have the three prong plug on the premises making it the default choice.
The Twist Lock plug is not as popular and is more commonly found in the Northeastern United States where occasionally local code mandates this plug. The twist lock plug is a very useful plug, built with circuit continuity in mind. The curved prongs including one with a distinctive hook are inserted into a power receptacle then twisted to lock the plug in place. This design prevents the plug from accidental removal from someone tripping over the cord or plug becoming loose and falling out.
Hopefully, that helps explain the differences between the four Aquatrol unit but if you have any more questions about the Aquatrol or anything else pool related, do not hesitate to email or call 877-372-6038
Why my Aquatrol RJ control doesn’t display flow alarm when my pump is off ?
I ‘m sure that is already work yet.
The AquaTrol’s RJ models do not have a flow sensor because of the way it mounts vertically on the wall under the return jet. The mounting position ensures the cell is always filled with water and that any gases created by the cell’s electrolyte are able to escape up and through the return line.
bonjour je veux savoir si j ai un aquatrol 2018 je peut changer ma cellule pour t9
merci
Non, seul le TCELL3 fonctionne avec l’AquaTrol.
After extensive research I picked up the aquatrol for an above ground pool. What I CAN’T find anywhere (and Hayward has been exactly 0 help) is whether the pump HAS to be plugged into the unit? CT has odd code restrictions- my pool pump and chlorination until are plugged into different outlets, quite a distance apart. If I can’t run the pump separately from the unit I’ll have to return it or get started in a massive electrical overhaul. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Cheers!
If your above-ground pool pump can be wired for 15 volts, you can plug it into the control. If your pump is 230 volts only, you’ll need to hardwire it.
Do you know how long the cord that plugs into the cell and the electrical outlet is?
Thanks in advance.
The cable length is 15 feet. AquaTrol & AquaRite 20K Replacement Cell Only – No Unions – W3GLX-CELL-5
I have a AquaTrol but it did not came with a flow switch…. can I install it with one or a need to get one.
I wasn’t sure about this so I tried to dive into Google and manuals for a clear answer, and wouldn’t you know it there isn’t one. Well, at least not one I could find. I am leaning towards saying that it will not work. I base my reasoning on this, the RJ would need to be programmed to bypass the flow sensor alerts. Unless you have a way in the settings to undo that bypass, the new sensor may not be recognized.
Have you tried reaching out to the manufacturer Hayward?
I have an Aqua Trol with a T-5 cell for my 15k gallon cement built in pool. I know the Trol is for above ground pools, but it has worked fine for 5 years now. It is time to change the cell. I’m thinking about changing the system to a Aqua Rite with a T-9 cell or a Blue Works BLH-20. What do you recommend? The Blue Works is considerably cheaper.
I would avoid the AquaRite because they seem to be money pits. If you went over to our Troubleshooting your Hayward AquaRite article, you could see the seemingly neverending issues commenters have. The controls are not built to last, the boards fry often, and components like the current limiter cheap. I’ve not heard of BlueWorks, but their design looks similar to the Hayward. First, I would make sure it is not a private-labeled version of the AquaRite. Then try to find as many reviews as you can.
My pick for salt systems is the Intellichlor. The design of the Intellichlor units allow to be much more durable. My mother in law had an AquaRite for years, and it was constantly in need of servicing. I convinced her to switch to the Intellichlor, and it has been smooth sailing for the last couple of years.
I have an Aqua Trol system and was given a T15 cell. Can I use it with this system in an above ground pool?
No. The Aquatrol can’t be set to accept to the TCELL15, the volts and amperage it requires will give the AquaTrol unusual readings. At best, the control will come on, then proceed to flash a bunch of lights and errors.
I have the RJ currently with the T cell 3. The is not function for me to select the different cells. Do I have to stick with the 3 or can I change it to one of the other options (5,9,15)?
Sorry, auto correct. There is no function for me to change the cell.
The Tcell5 can be used on the AquaTrol
Hi,
After extensive research as a new pool buyer, I bought the AquaTrol component. We decided to put the pool semi in ground and that’s where my problem comes in. I explained to the pool company I ordered everything from what my application was going to be. They didn’t offer me any other option expect for the RJ model. I am not able to mount it vertically on the side of the pool because of the pool being semi in ground. Basically the AquaTrol would be covered it dirt. What should I do?
Thank you
Chris
Either return the AquaTrol to get the right model, switch to regular chlorine, or you are going to need to change the semi-inground plans
Hi,
I have a Hayward Aqua Trol RJ with T cell 5, my cell is damaged and I need to replace it. The Hardware Revision is r1.47. Could you please tell me with which cell I can replace it and the price of this product.
The TCELL5 is the correct replacement for the Aquatrol salt System.
I bought a 19×33 above ground pool and the RJ option was sold to me without discussing other options. I’m planning my pool equipment pad and electrical requirements to be about 16 ft from the pool, closer to the house. So I’m noticing the RJ option has to hang off the side of the pool which will pose a problem as the cord for it won’t reach the control box closer to the house. Can the cell be setup vertically but 16 ft away where all the equipment and electrical plans to be instead of hanging off side of the pool? or should I plan to relocate some electrical closer to the pool for the control box so the cord to the RJ cell can reach the control box? Or I’m going to have to upgrade to HP option I imagine. Any advice would be appreciated.
The only light on my aqua troll above ground pools Chlorinator is the on and off light. None of the other LEDs are lighted. What do I need to do? Thank you!
Take a gander at this AquaTrol Troubleshooting Guide, section 4 should be what you are needing.
Could this be installed on on flexible pvc pipe?
Yes, the AquaTrol can be installed on system with flex pipe plumbing; as shown in the picture in the article:
I have a AquaTrol system and recently installed a inground pool, can I use the AquaTrol control unit and just upgrade The T-cell 3 to a T-cell 9 or 15 it a 22,000 inground pool?
It would depend on how old your Aquatrol control panel is. If it was made before 2009, the TCELL15 is compatible.If you want to use the TCELL9, you will need to upgrade the main PCB to a newer version.
does this unit have a plug for the pump so it can act as a timer? another site lists it as a feature for the tl model. is this info correct? do both have this feature?
All four styles of the Aquatrol contain the timer feature.
Can we install AQUATROL in an InGround pool?
I guess in theory you could, but I do not know why you would.
Price.
Fair enough.
Is it possible to purchase flexible hose as is on Aquatrol RJ?