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Hayward AquaRite 900 Salt Level: 1700 vs -1700 Explained

Last updated: 3 Oct 2026
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Aquarate 900
Salt Chlorinator Guide | Hayward AquaRite 900

Hayward AquaRite 900: Whats the Difference Between 1700 and 1700?

Many pool owners see the minus sign and wonder if the unit is reversing the cell polarity. Heres what it really means.

Display shows
1700
Average Salt
Display shows
-1700
Instant Salt

What Do These Two Numbers Mean?

1

1700 No Minus Sign

This is the Average Salt level recorded by the unit: 1,700 ppm

2

1700 With Minus Sign

This is the Instant Salt reading at that moment: also 1,700 ppm

The sign simply identifies the Instant Salt display mode. It does not mean negative salt, and it does not indicate whether the cell is running in positive or negative polarity.

After adding salt, the Instant Salt reading may change first, while the average takes time to update. Thats why the two numbers may not match for a while.

Showing 1,700 ppm? Heres What to Check

The AquaRite 900 recommends a salt level of 2,7003,400 ppm, with an ideal level of about 3,200 ppm. If the reading is accurate, 1,700 ppm is below the recommended range.

1,700 ppm
 
Ideal 3,200
 
 
0
2,700
3,400
4,000
Below / above recommended range Recommended 2,7003,400 ppm

Checks to Do Before Adding Salt

1
Test the actual salt level separately
Use a separate salt meter or test kit to confirm the real salt level in the water before adding any salt.
2
Inspect the cell for scale
If the actual salt level is normal but the unit still reads low, check the cell plates for calcium scale buildup.
3
Check the cell type setting
Make sure the cell type configured in the control unit matches the cell actually installed.
4
Assess the cell condition
If readings are still abnormal after all the checks above, then evaluate the remaining life and condition of the cell.

A Check Salt or Inspect Cell light is a signal to investigate. It does not automatically mean the cell has failed and must be replaced.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does 1700 on the display mean negative salt?

No. The sign shows that this is the Instant Salt reading taken at that moment. The salt level is 1,700 ppm.

Does the minus sign mean the cell is reversing polarity?

No. The sign does not indicate positive or negative cell polarity. It only separates the salt display modes.

Why do the two readings differ after adding salt?

The Instant Salt reading changes first, while the Average Salt value takes time to update, so the numbers can differ at first.

What salt level should the AquaRite 900 have?

The recommended range is 2,7003,400 ppm, with about 3,200 ppm being ideal. Always confirm the actual level with a separate test kit before adding salt.

Understand your pool, fix problems at the source, and avoid unnecessary costs.

Have a question about pool equipment or systems? Talk to the WINWINPOOL team.

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