How To Isolate and Correct Compupool CPSC Problems

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If your Compupool CPSC Generator fails to work after initial installation or stops working after a period of time, there are a series of troubleshooting steps you can take before contacting the manufacturer. This guide covers a number of possible steps to identify your specific problem and get your CPSC Generator back into operation. If this guide does not isolate your problem, give Compupool a call at (888) 989-7258 x225 for further instructions.

Click here to view Compupool cell parts. 

Step by Step

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Step 1

NO POWER - If the LED lights and display on your CPSC unit are all off, check for the following:
a - Blown fuse - See our guide on "How to replace a blown fuse on a Compupool CPSC Generator".
b - Mismatched power - Verify that the voltage coming into the unit is the same as how the unit is configured. If different, convert the wiring on the unit to match the supply voltage. See the front half of our guide on "How To Install an In-Line Salt Chlorine Generator" for further instructions.
c - Not grounded - Verify that a grounding wire has been installed to the grounding lug. See Step 17 of our guide on "How To Install an In-Line Salt Chlorine Generator".
d - Loose grey ribbon cable - Verify that the grey ribbon cable is plugged in tightly on both ends. See our guide on "How To Secure Ribbon Cable on a Compupool CPSC".
e - Check that wires are not near screws or crimped.

Step 2

BLANK OR FADING DISPLAY - If the LCD Display is blank or fading, you unit probably has a faulty diode or Zener diode. The LCD Printed Circuit Board [PCB] will have to be replaced. See our guide on "How To Replace a Compupool CPSC LCD Printed Circuit Board" for more instructions.

Click here to view Compupool power supply parts. 

Step 3

NO DISPLAY, ALL SIX LCD LIGHTS ON - This is usually an indication that you have 110V power coming into the unit and the unit is configured for 220V. Verify that your supply voltage is 110V and convert the unit's wiring from 220V to 110V. See the front half of our guide on "How To Install an In-Line Salt Chlorine Generator" for further instructions.

Step 4

NOT PRODUCING CHLORINE - The CPSC Generator produces tiny bubbles in the cell when the cell is running, If you don't see these bubbles or your unit is not maintaining adequate levels of chlorine (measured with test strips) check the following:
a -Chlorine Output Percentage - You may have your chlorine output level set too low. Move it to 100% and monitor the results for a couple of days. If your chlorine level gets too high, back the setting down.
b - Insufficient run time - Leave the unit on for a longer period of time. About 8-10 hours is typical but this will vary with your pool's water flow.
c - Water Fault light on - See Step #5
d - Only one polarity working - See Step #7
e - Plate(s) detached - See Step #12
f - Water chemistry is off - Have a local pool store check a sample of your pool water. If any of the water chemistry numbers are out of range, add the appropriate chemicals to bring them into range. Then shock the pool, set the chlorine output to 100% and run for the pool for 24 hours. Monitor the results and bump the run time down 2-4 hours and the chlorine output percentage by 10% with 2 days of cycling between increments. Continue until you reach the optimum chlorine production.
g - Cell needs cleaning - See Step #11
h - Low salt level - If the low salt light goes on, you do not have enough salt in your pool to produce chlorine and the unit will shut off. Add salt. See our guide on "How To Add Salt To Your Pool" for more instructions.

Step 5

WATER FAULT LIGHT ON - The Water Fault Light will illuminate on several conditions. Check the following:
a - Salt just added - The Water Fault light may turn on if salt was added but not completely dissolved before the CPSC unit was turned back on.
b - Salt level too low - The Water Fault light will illuminate if the salt level is below 2500 ppm.
c - Inadequate flow - Check the filter, skimmer and pump strainer baskets to make sure nothing is restricting water flow. Also check the settings of your diverter valves to make sure they are not cutting off all or most flow.
d - Loose cell plug - Make sure the cell plug is attached tightly. See Step #15.
e - Loose wire connections - Crimp the female connections slightly to tighten the fit around the connection terminals.

Click here to view Compupool cell parts. 

Step 6

OVER SALT LIGHT ON - Take a sample of your pool water into a local pool store and have it test for salt level. This unit works best at 3500 ppm. The light comes on at 6000 ppm. If your water is above 6000, dilute the water to attain a salt level of 4000 - 5000 ppm. The unit will operate at 6000 ppm, but it will draw more current and run hotter. Over time, running hot will reduce the life of the unit. See our guide on "How to Reduce the Salt Level In Your Pool".
If your salt level is good, the unit may need to be recalibrated. See our guide on "How To Recalibrate the Salt Level on a Compupool CPSC".

Step 7

NOT REVERSING POLARITY - Your unit has two LED lights for "Polarity 1" and "Polarity 2". They should alternate periodically to show that the power to the cell is alternating to help maximize the life of the cell. If the unit is stuck on one, try crimping the female connection on the cell plug to create a tighter fit around the connection terminal.

Step 8

DISPLAY READS "IDLE" - This is an indication that the internal timers have been selected. "Idle" appears when the unit is in between timing sequences. If you are wiring to an external timer you may want to change the timer setting from internal to external. See our guide on "How To Select Internal/External Timers on a Compupool CSPS".

Click here to view timers. 

Step 9

TEMP ALWAYS 69° AND SALT READING IS ALWAYS < 2500 - This is an indication that the electrode and LCD Printed Circuit Board need to be replaced. See our guide on "How To Replace a Compupool CPSC LCD Printed Circuit Board" for more instructions.

Step 10

DISPLAY READS "Not Genuine - Call Dealer" - If this message comes up, check the following:
a - Loose cell plug - Make sure that the cell plug is securely attached to the cell head. See our guide on "How To Clean a Corroded Salt Chlorine Generator Cord Head".
b - Loose connection - Try crimping the female connections slightly on the cell plug to create a tighter fit around the connection terminals.
c - Wrong Cell ID - Go through the Cell ID Instructions. See our guide on "How To Implement the Cell ID Instructions for a Compupool CPSC".
d - Bad LCD PCB - If the unit is locked up and will not power on, the LCD PCB needs to be replaced. See our guide on "How To Replace a Compupool CPSC LCD Printed Circuit Board" for more instructions.

Click here to view Compupool power supply parts. 

Step 11

BUILDUP ON CELL - If you see significant buildup on the plates of the cell you need to clean the cell and check for contributing conditions to reduce further buildup. For instructions on cleaning the cell, see our guide on "How To Clean a Compupool Salt Generator Cell". Here's a list of contributing conditions to check:
a - Not reversing polarities - Make sure the unit is reversing polarities. See "Not Reversing Polarities" in Step 7 above.
b - Loose plates - Inspect the plates in the cell to make sure that they are all secure.
c - Bad Water Chemistry - Ensure that the water chemistry is always maintained within ranges.

Click here to view Compupool cell parts. 

Step 12

LOOSE ELECTRODE PLATE - If your water chemistry is not maintained consistently, or you do not clean the buildup off the cell plates, the plates will corrode and separate from the cell brackets. When this occurs, the cell will have to be replaced. It is very important to maintain water chemistry in your pool to extend the life of the unit's cell.

Step 13

CELL LEAKING AT TERMINAL BOLTS - If the cell is leaking through the terminal bolts, the cell has to be replaced.

Step 14

CELL LEAKING AT UNION - Check the union O-ring for wear and cracks. Replace if necessary. Re-lube the O-ring and make sure the collar is tight. Hand tightening should be sufficient. Do not over tighten.

Step 15

MELTED CELL PLUG - Make sure all plates are secure and connected to the brackets at the cell head. If not, replace the cell. For instructions on correcting the melted cell plug, see our guide on "How To Clean a Corroded Salt Chlorine Generator Cord Head".

Click here to view Compupool cell parts. 

Comments

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(1 to 40 of 105)

 Posted: 5/4/2022 

My wall unit shows add salt light. Tested salt levels at 8 out of 10 with test strip. No chlorine is being produced. Does this seem like a cell problem or controller problem.
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 5/11/2022 

I don't know what 8 out of 10 means in reference to salt levels. What is the ppm?
 Reply

 Posted: 2/13/2022 

Troubleshooting the CPSC 36, I have recently replaced the housing and the union ring between the cell and the housing because it was cracked, but water is now leaking through the two holes on either side of the cell terminals in the front. The terminals themselves seem OK, does the entire cell need to be replaced or can I try some silicone? Also, on the computer control unit, the power on is blinking green and will not work beyond this. The screen is blank. Thanks.
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 2/14/2022 

You can try silicone to fix the cracks, but you will likely need a new board or two for the main unit. We currently don't stock those boards; there does not seem to be a reliable source for CompuPool parts at the moment. The CompuPool salt systems are notoriously finicky. If you need to replace the boards too, I would consider replacing the CPSC with a new system, like the POWERCLEAN Salt Ultra 540 - 52000-240-000
 Reply

 Posted: 9/8/2021 

Hi My Compu Chlor control unit has the POWER ON & POLARITY 2 lights flashing. The display flashes between POWER OFF and 12:00AM 40%. I can hear it clicking. I have unplugged the unit and also reset the plug it's controlled by but nothing helps it. Any one have this happened before and what was done to fix it. Thank you in advance.
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 9/9/2021 

Unfortunately, I've never come across this CompuPool model. But if I had to guess, the cell is bad. You can try giving it a clean to see if it cleans the sensors and plates. The CompuChlor manual for this model is not very detailed when it comes to troubleshooting. you may want to contact CompuPool directly.
 Reply

 Posted: 9/18/2018 

Hello Ron - unfortunately, I could not find any info on the Ultraclean. Also, because CompuPool's current manufacturing and availability issues i suggest replacing the whole system. For a system with a similar price range (but much better track record) give the Pureline CrystalPure a look.
 Reply

 Posted: 9/18/2018 

My display reads compupool ultraclean and all 6 lights at bottom are lit. None of the control buttons have any response. Is there any help for it or is it time to replace?
 Reply

 Posted: 5/6/2018 

I see you claim if the plates are broken you need to replace the salt cell. I have repaired the plates on my salt cell a couple of times now. This is going to save me hundreds of dollars and i am going to figure out how to completely rebuild the plates on the cell.
 Reply

 Posted: 11/26/2017 

Louise Sherratt - This is one I have not seen. I do not know the answer to your problem and, unfortunately, we no longer have access to Compupool tech service to help you get an answer.
 Reply

 Posted: 11/25/2017 

our compupool salt chlorinator clock keeps losing time, what can i do about it?
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 9/28/2017 

Sam - Make sure the connection between the cable and cell head are tight. Crimp the female leads on the cable slightly. Then check for low water flow. See our guide on "How to Correct Low Water Pressure in Your Pool System". Look at Step 6 first. A clogged impeller is a common cause of low water flow. The cell should last longer than 3 years, especially if you only use it 3 months a year.
 Reply

 Posted: 9/28/2017 

I have a "NO WATER" default reading on the screen of my compu pool (CPSC16 serial No 54162) chlorination system, then and I checked the chlorine and was almost zero. It seems that the system doesn't produce chlorine anymore. Sometime the machine also provides a "No salt" default reading despite the fact that the salt level is OK (above 4500 ppm). I have the chlorination system since 2014 running 3 months in the summer. Should I replace the electrodes? thanks
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 9/4/2017 

William - Make sure all your cable connections are tight, but It sounds like your Display PCB is failing.
 Reply

 Posted: 9/2/2017 

Compupool CPSC24 display only shows some of the characters.
 Reply

 Posted: 8/21/2017 

My CPX48 is not even a year old and the power unit is having an issue booting. It only shows the software version number on the LCD display. Has anyone else experienced this issue, and if so, were you able to fix it?
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 8/21/2017 

Dave - The PCB is usually the next component to go after the cell has been replaced. Check to make sure all your connections are tight first. Gently crimp the terminal leads to make them tighter.
 Reply

 Posted: 8/18/2017 

I have a Compu Pools X3-25 that keeps tripping pool guys say pcb is "on its way out" cell has been replaced any tips ?
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 8/5/2017 

maria i - If you want to replace your heater, give us a call at 407-834-2200 and one of our service reps will help you identify your replacement. To fix your heater, you would have to call in a professional heater service man.
 Reply

 Posted: 8/2/2017 

spa aero wont heat up.....filtr works and bubble maker works.
heater will not work on my portable hot tub. where can I get a heater? or how do I fix heater?

 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 7/17/2017 

ronnie - The only way to reduce the salt level in your pool is to remove some of the water and to replace it with fresh water. See our guide on "How To Reduce the Salt Level In Your Pool". Also, take a sample of your pool water into a local pool store and have them independently check your salt level to make sure high salt level is your problem.
 Reply

 Posted: 7/14/2017 

My high salt level light is on , how do i reduce the salt level
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 7/10/2017 

General - Unfortunately, Compupool, based in Australia, pulled out of the US. We no longer have access to parts and specific troubleshooting information to resolve some of the customer issues.
 Reply

 Posted: 7/3/2017 

My control Panel isn't working. I press the buttons, but nothing will change. I want to decrease the chlorination, but it continues at 100%. I pressed the Super CL, the "-" and the Winter Mode, but nothing happens. I've also pushed the power and Ok buttons, but still nothing.
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 6/17/2017 

Tammy - Your water fault problem may have nothing to do with you SCG. See our guide on "How to Correct Low Water Pressure in Your Pool System". Check Step 6, Clogged Impeller, first. It is a common problem.
 Reply

 Posted: 6/16/2017 

My salt system says "water fault". I cleaned all baskets, checked the diverter valves, replaced my salt cell and I still have the water fault error. I just had salt level checked so it is good also. We tightened the plug wires. What could be causing the error, and is it producing chlorine?
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 6/12/2017 

Anonymous (Compupool) – I do not have this specific information but it sounds like your main PCB is damaged. Compupool, Australia, pull out of the US last year. We are trying to reestablish contact with them to get troubleshooting information like this.
 Reply

Anonymous  Posted: 6/10/2017 

Compupool control unit not functioning. LCD screen is lit up with lettering SW VER V1.0.10 and none of the buttons work including the power button. Is unit repairable or is there a simple fix? Unit has been rebooted several times.
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 5/30/2017 

Kerri - Try crimping the female leads at the end of the cable to get a tighter fit on the cell terminals. Try spraying these connections with a contact cleaner spray. Clean your cell in a acid solution. See our guide on "How To Clean a Compupool Salt Generator Cell".
 Reply

 Posted: 5/28/2017 

My system has the add salt light that stays on. Pool water tested and the salt level is high so not sure what to do?
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 5/25/2017 

Tonya - There is one more procedure you can try that may clear this message. Here are instructions for "Changing the Model Selection". I have not tried this procedure so I don't know if it will work, but it's worth a try. Otherwise, you may need a new LCD board and Compupool Products USA is no longer in business. You can email Compupool Australia at sales@Compupool.com.AU to see if they have any other options on clearing the message or obtaining an LCD board.
 Reply

 Posted: 5/24/2017 

Followup to advice given -
I checked the sockets/plug. Tiny bit of corrosion - cleaned it. Crimped the edges of the sockets. Made sure everything was seated firmly.
Still get the "Non genuine..." error. Is there a way to reset the device? Anything else I can do? Don't want to have to shell out more $$ for a new generator

 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 5/23/2017 

Anonymous (no cell reading) - You cable leads at the cell end may be loose. Try crimping the female leads on the end of the cable to get a tighter fit on the cell terminals.
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 5/23/2017 

Tonya - If your SCG is seven years old, you probably have the older cable plug that fits over the three cell terminals. Try crimping the female connections slightly on the cell plug to create a tighter fit around the connection terminals. If the plug around the connectors has deteriorated so that it doesn't fit snuggly, you may have to clean the cable plug. See our guide on " How To Clean a Corroded Salt Chlorine Generator Cord Head".
 Reply

Anonymous  Posted: 5/21/2017 

I have a CPx-24, it is reading no cell, what could be the problem
 Reply

 Posted: 5/21/2017 

I have have a 7 year old My Blue Pool auto chlorinator. Right now it has a "non genuine call dealer" error. I have a model CPSC24, serial number 022149. I just replaced the salt cell because there was leaking from one of the prongs. This did not make the "non genuine call dealer" error.
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 5/18/2017 

Sheryl - If you have the older cable with the disc plug shown in this guide, I would replace it with the newer cable. See our guide on "How To Replace the Compupool Salt Chlorine Generator Cell Cable".
 Reply

 Posted: 5/17/2017 

Thanks for the advice. The new cell is the same size and the polarity does change when I hold the up button, although it does not do it automatically. Do you think I need a new cable?
 Reply

InyoPools Product Specialist  Posted: 5/11/2017 

Anonymous (Low Salt) - Did you replace the old cell with the same cell size? They are matched to the control unit. Check the cable for cuts or damage. Make sure the control unit is reversing polarity. Hold the "Up arrow" button for 3-5 seconds until the display reads "Cleaning". If the polarity lights didn't switch, you may need a new LCD.
 Reply

Anonymous  Posted: 5/9/2017 

Like Hazmat, my display reads Low Salt but my salt is over 3500 and has been checked by the pool specialist. I have also crimped the female connectors but still the same reading. We have just installed a new cell. Do I need a new cable attaching the cell to the display? Any other thoughts on what may be wrong?
 Reply