The Error Code P displayed on the Zodiac salt chlorinator indicates insufficient water flow through the cell.
Last updated: 13 Mar 2026
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Causes of Error Code P on Zodiac eXO iQ Salt Chlorinator
In the Zodiac salt chlorinator system, Error Code P = Flow Error / No Water Flow.
This means there is no water circulating through the salt cell,
or the Flow Sensor switch is not functioning.
Common Causes:
1. Pool pump is not running / No power.
2. Some water valves are closed, preventing water from passing through the salt cell.
3. Pump basket clogged / Skimmer basket clogged.
4. Flow switch is dirty, broken, or obstructed.
5. Air in the system, preventing water pressure even if the pump is running.
How to fix (Easy steps for customers):
Check if the pump is running. If the pump is not running = The chlorinator will show 'P' immediately.
- Close all valves completely, especially the inlet-outlet valves of the salt cell (to isolate for cleaning).
- Clean the pump basket and the skimmer basket (often clogged with leaves).
- Clean the skimmer filter / fiber filter. If clogged, pressure drops and water flow becomes insufficient.
- Purge air from the pump system: Open the pump basket lid slightly to let air out, then close it tightly (Open valves back up before starting).
- Check the Flow Sensor to see if hair or leaves are stuck. If the sensor is truly broken, the machine will show P even if water flow is good.
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If the issue persists, Technician Check: Check the pressure gauge on the filter. If pressure is very high = Sand filter clogged (Perform Backwash). If pressure is abnormally low = Pump not priming fully, air intake, or seal leak. ***Error Code P on the Zodiac salt chlorinator means water is not flowing through the salt cell. Please check the following:
1. The pool pump must be running.
Related Content
What's the difference between "1700" and "-1700" on a Hayward AquaRite 900 salt chlorinator? The number without a minus sign is the Average Salt reading, while the number with a minus sign is the Instant Salt reading. It does not mean negative salt or reversed cell polarity. This guide explains both readings, the recommended salt range of 2,700–3,400 ppm, and what to check before adding salt or replacing the cell.
1.FIlter 2.Back Wash
3.Rinse. 4.West
5.Re Circulate 6.Closed
The New Year holiday is a time when many families travel to other provinces or overseas, leaving their homes unoccupied for several days. For homeowners with swimming pools, this often leads to concerns that the water may turn green, develop unpleasant odors, or require costly cleaning and water replacement upon return.
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