Troubleshooting guide
Pool automation not working
When automation runs your pool, the pump, heater and chlorinator take orders from the controller. If one stops listening, it's often a communication or mode setting, not a broken part.
Safe checks first
- Power. Is the equipment on? Pentair says an IntelliFlo3 that's receiving power will light its ON/STOP button.
- Service or timeout mode. Most systems have a service mode that stops automation. Pentair's IntelliFlo3 pulses its CONNECT light magenta when it's connected to automation and in service mode. Hayward's AquaRite flashes its Remotely Controlled light when the automation is in service or timeout mode.
- Who's in charge? On an AquaRite, a steady Remotely Controlled light means the automation is controlling it and the unit's own switch and output dial are inactive.
- Wi-Fi and the app. Pentair's offline checklist: confirm the router is online, restart it, cycle power to the pump at the breaker (wait a minute), then check the signal strength in the app.
Pump not responding to the controller
On Jandy variable-speed pumps, the manual says the pump's DIP switches must be set correctly for the controller it's wired to, and the low-voltage communication wiring has to be right. Settings like these are usually a one-time install item, so a pump that suddenly stops listening may have a loose communication cable or a fault showing on its own display.
When a tech helps
Automation problems are easier to sort out when someone can see the controller screen, the equipment pad and the labels together. That's exactly what a one-way video call is for: you point the phone, the tech reads it with you.
Common questions
Why won't my pool pump follow its schedule?
Common causes: the system is in service mode, the pump lost communication with the controller, the time or schedule changed after a power outage, or the pump has a fault showing on its own display. Check those first.
Why does my pool app say the pump is offline?
Usually a Wi-Fi issue: the router is down, the signal at the pump is weak, or the pump lost power. Pentair suggests restarting the router, cycling power to the pump at the breaker, and checking the signal strength in the app.
My salt cell ignores its own dial. Is it broken?
Probably not. On a Hayward AquaRite, a steady Remotely Controlled light means automation is in charge and the unit's own switch and dial are inactive. Change the output from the automation instead.
Related guides
Variable-speed pump codes
Priming, overheat, overcurrent and voltage alarms across the big three brands.
Read the guideSalt cell / chlorinator codes
No Flow, Check Salt, Inspect Cell and what the IntelliChlor LEDs mean.
Read the guideHeater won't fire
No heat, a flow or pressure code, or an ignition lockout. Flow comes first.
Read the guidePentair error codes
MasterTemp ERR PS, HLS, IGN, AGS; IntelliFlo3 alarms; IntelliChlor lights.
Read the guideSources
- Pentair, IntelliFlo3 VSF / IntelliPro3 VSF installation and maintenance guide: priming, drive LEDs, troubleshooting chart, alarms and warnings
- Hayward, AquaRite salt chlorination owner's manual (092540 Rev G): water chemistry, indicator LEDs, cell inspection and troubleshooting
- Jandy (Zodiac), FloPro VS-FHP variable-speed pump installation and operation manual: troubleshooting (copy hosted by Hydropool)
Brand names belong to their owners. Pool Helpline isn't affiliated with or endorsed by any manufacturer. Steps and codes vary by model and year, so always check your own owner's manual.