Hayward Chlorinators: Install & Maintain

hayward-chlorinators-cl220-cl220

The Hayward Chlorinator is the most recognized pool chlorine feeder on the market.

Hayward chlorinators have been around since the 70’s, in the same design, and one could say it’s America’s favorite pool chlorinator.

If you use Trichlor tablets or sticks, the safest, easiest and most accurate way to slow-dissolve them is with a chlorine feeder. A pool floater can get stuck or flip over, and putting chemicals into the skimmer is a big no-no.

Aboveground or inground, all pools that use chlorine tablets, should also use a tablet feeder, like the Hayward Chlorinator.

Hayward Chlorinator Installation

The CL-200 model (CL-100 for above ground pools) can be plumbed in-line, which means that the feeder is glued in place on the return pipe, after the filter and any heater, last on the line.

The CL-220 (or CL-110) are for off-line installation. The feeder base is screwed to the floor, and hoses carry water in and out of the feeder, pushing chlorine through injection fittings in the pipes.

In-Line Hayward Chlorinator Install

Hayward CL100/CL200 are designed for permanent installation to PVC pipe or hose. Both feeders have 1.5″ female threads to connect to a hose adapter (above ground pools), or a 1.5″ male adapter. You can also buy the optional Hayward SxS Unions, connectors to match 1.5″ PVC pipe.

In-line chlorinators must be installed after the filter and after any heater. They should be installed at ground level to prevent back flow, and if you have a heater, a one-way check valve should be installed between the heater and the feeder, to prevent damage from corrosive chlorine gas.

  1. Shut off pump and open air bleeder to drain pipes.
  2. Locate section of pipe to cut, measure twice and cut, twice.
  3. chlorine-tablets-and-chlorinatorThread 1.5″ adapters (2) fully into feeder, sealing with Teflon tape.
  4. Use PVC Primer and Glue to connect pipes to adapters.
  5. Fill with America’s Favorite Chlorine!

Off-Line Hayward Chlorinator Install

If you don’t have the 9″ of clear horizontal pipe, close to the ground available to hard plumb the CL200 chlorinator, you can install an Off-Line CL-220 model. No plumbing involved, but you do need a power drill and a 3/8″ drill bit for the injection fittings.

Securing a Hayward chlorinator into a concrete floor with anchors and screws is recommended, to hold the body stationary when you remove the lid. An alternate method is to fasten the feeder to a hefty piece of pressure treated lumber that is pegged into the pad.

  1. Secure the CL220 feeder to the pad or hefty length of lumber.
  2. Mark the Inlet and Outlet locations for the hose fittings.
  3. Drill 3/8″ hole at marked locations, clean holes of any burrs.chlorine-tablets-and-chlorinator
  4. Install hose fitting/gasket and clamp firmly to pipe.
  5. Connect feed hoses, cutting off excessive excess.
  6. Fill with slow dissolving Trichlor tablets or sticks!

 Hayward Chlorinator Maintenance

The Hayward Chlorinator is a workhorse and doesn’t need too much attention to keep plugging away. Here’s some items that may need attention from time to time:

Clogged Chlorinator: A cheap chlorine tablet can leave behind a crusty, goopy residue. Do not use any solvents or chemicals to clean, which can cause a reaction. Use only water to flush out the feeder. For Off-Line models, a new Check Valve & Inlet Fitting (CLX220EA) is in order every few years, to keep water flowing properly. Also replaceable is the internal standpipe or feeder pipe (CLX200H).

hayward-chlorinator-cap

Stuck Chlorinator Lid: The Hayward Chlorinator has a unique internal o-ring, made of Viton, a chlorine resistant rubber. It can grip very tightly, and if the base is not anchored tightly, be almost impossible to remove. There is an aftermarket lid wrench available, or removal tool.

Lid O-ring Replacement: The Viton Lid O-ring mentioned above? It needs replacement if it becomes distended or pinched. Remove the logo cap to get at the screw to separate the inner top and o-ring from the outer top. Lube your chlorinator lid o-ring (CLX200K) regularly to keep smooth operation.

hayward-chlorinator-accessory-pak-clx220ga

Hose Replacement: Although the black poly hoses used for the Off-Line CL-220 model are UV resistant, they don’t last forever, especially in strong sunlight or freezing winters. Fortunately, you can buy an 8′ replacement chlorinator tubing (CLX220J), or the Accessory Pak (CLX220GA) for hose, clamp, nuts and fittings.

Winterizing a Hayward Chlorinator: For safety’s sake, please remove all tablets and rinse the inside with clean water thoroughly. Do not replace the lid for storage, chlorine residue may continue to gas off. Store open in a cool, dry area during periods of non-use, or just remove the drain plug and leave it connected for winter.

Pool Chlorinator Troubleshooting Tips

1. Chlorine Tablets are Not Dissolving.

  • For Off-Line feeders, is it installed backwards? Small arrows indicate flow direction.
  • For Off-Line feeders, check the Inlet/Outlet fittings for a clog of calcium.
  • Some units have a screen in the bottom, or a standpipe on the side that needs occasional cleaning to remove calcium.
  • The dial may be at too low of a setting. Turn up the dial.

2. Chlorinator is Leaking.

  • Leaking at the top? A lid o-ring may be missing, damaged or out of position.
  • For In-Line chlorine feeders, replace threaded inlet/outlet ports if leaking.
  • If the body of the chlorinator is cracked, replace the unit.
  • For Off-Line feeders, leaks at Inlet/Outlet fittings? Tighten nuts, use Teflon tape.

3. Chlorine Tablets are Dissolving but the chlorine level is very low, or non-existent.

  • Check that your test reagents or test strips are fresh, to rule out false readings.
  • Check that your level of Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer) is not higher than 60 ppm.
  • Check your level of Combined Chlorine is > 0.3 ppm indicating the need for shocking.
  • The dial may be at too low of a setting. Turn up the dial.
  • Water pressure may be too low, backwash the filter or clean the pump basket.
  • Check that the level of phosphates is not higher than 300 ppm.

Pool Chlorinator Safety Tips

  • Turn off pool pump before opening your chlorine feeder.
  • When removing the lid, stand aside, hold breath to not inhale chlorine gas.
  • When winterizing, be sure to remove all chlorine from the chamber.
  • Only use Slow-Dissolve Tri-Chlor tablets in your chlorine feeder.

Swimming pool chlorinators have made it easier and safer to chlorinate your pool water. They are also affordable and manufactured in different sizes for all types of pools and spas. Aboveground pool chlorinators and inground pool chlorinators are available, and installation is quick and easy. If you are feeding chlorine tablets through the skimmer or through a floating chlorine dispenser, there’s a better way!


With regular maintenance and a few replacement parts every few years, your Hayward Chlorinator can give a lifetime of service!

102 thoughts on “Hayward Chlorinators: Install & Maintain

  1. Why the control valve or knob is moving by it self and going back to level 1 . I have a brand new CL220 offline chlorinator .

    • Hi Peter, gremlins perhaps? 😉 I have never heard of that, but maybe it’s not inserted all the way, or possibly missing an o-ring, but would probably be leaking if so, so, not quite sure

  2. I’m a new pool owner.
    Should I turn off the CL220 when I shock the pool?
    All the warnings about ‘mixing’ pool chemicals have mad me over cautious.

    • Hi Ted, no worries about that. You never want to directly mix dry chemicals, but added them both to the pool, at the same time, is no problem.

  3. Bill Gibson

    I have a CL220 chlorinator that has worked fine for 20 years. This year the tablets are not dissolving and I am shocking the pool a lot to keep up. I ran the pump with the lid off and it fills up quickly with the valve 1/2 to 3/4 full speed so that side seams OK. The sadle connection leaks for the first time if that has anything to do with it. How can I clean the chlorinator. Will vinigar or CLR help? Any suggestions

    • Hi Bill, definitely don’t pour any chemicals into the chlorinator, could be dangerous. I would suggest buying the fittings pack, CLX220EA as the check valve may be clogged. Also check that the injection fitting, where the chlorine enters the pip, is not clogged with scale. Then on the inside, use a tool to clean the tall standpipe on the outflow side, and a paperclip to ream out the inlet hole on the opposite side of the chamber.

  4. Tom Gilbertson

    I just had a CL220 Chlorinator installed in my in ground pool. They installed both the inlet connection and the outlet connection of the feeder to the return line to the pool after the filter about 30” apart . Will the Chlorinator work installed like this

    • Hi Tom, yes it will work like that, I know the directions say to put the inlet in between pump and filter, but there may not have been a good spot for that, it’s best to be on a straight run, and not too close to a 90 fitting.

  5. Hi, just installed inline CL200, wondering if this feeder restricted the water flow? The see-through hole seems too small for the 2” pipe. Thanks

    • Hi TD, yes that could restrict the flow, depending on your pump size – did you notice the filter pressure gauge rise? If not no worries, but if it rose considerably, you could a) install a bypass assembly with tee fittings, and a valve, around the chlorinator, or b) install a 2″ chlorinator, like the Hayward CL2002S. CMP and Waterway also make a 2″ inline model, King 980 is also 2″ and PEntair model 320 is also 2″. Hayward CL200 model is rated for flowrates from 50-80 GPM, which is kind of low. Another option, if you feel this is giving you flow or filtration problems, is to use an Off-Line chlorinator.

      • Thanks, D! Actually mine is CL2002S. Can I install a Y spliter (1) go thru the chlorinator and another direct to the return? Thanks!

        • Yes, the way to do it is to use two 2″ Tee fittings, one on each side of the chlorinator, connected with two 2″ 90 elbow fittings, and a 2″ ball valve in the middle. The ball valve will allow you to control how much water bypasses the chlorinator, or goes around the chlorinator

  6. Bill Hughes

    We just installed a new CL220, it is making a rattling noise from inside of it when it is turned on. Nothing seems to be loose, and when is move or tilt it the rattling noise stays consistent and doesn’t change at all. Are there any common issues that can cause this? Thanks.

    • I’m wondering if it might be the check valve fitting, installed where the hose connects? It has a small ball in the check valve, that could be causing the sound. But why? Perhaps there is air in the water being fed into the unit? Could be from where the incoming hose connects on the pipe, perhaps choosing a new location, on a straight run of pipe, between pump and filter (or it could also be after the filter if needed), could solve it?

  7. Our clorinator is set at 7 but the chlorine level in the pool is low. I can feel water flowing through the output tube but don’t know why the chlorine is so low.

    • Sometimes the amount of junk in the pool consuming chlorine is greater than the supply, when the chlorine demand is high. Try shocking the pool heavily to destroy those gremlins. Also make sure the pH is good and low, 7.2-7.6, and the cyanuric acid is not too high, best at 20-50 ppm.

  8. joseph lioi

    how should an cl200 feeder be installed for an above ground pool.The feeder will be below water level.

    • Hi there, good question. The CL200 is the inline version, you can hard-plumb it, or you can use hoses with hose adapters. Either way, but especially if using hoses, secure the base to a cinder block or a 1 ft long piece of 8×8 lumber, so that you can spin-off the lid more easily. You will need a check valve, in between the pool and chlorinator, or between the filter and chlorinator, to prevent backflow of water through the chlorinator backwards, when the pump is off. Most check valves are not threaded, so need to be hard plumbed, maybe between pump and filter, and then hose from chlorinator to pool…?

  9. Penney Demaris

    I don’t see the arrows in or out .. the front is that the out ?

    • Hi Penny, if you have an inline chlorinator, the arrows will be printed, or actually not printed but raised plastic of the same color, on the lower sides, or maybe just on one side. Another way to tell is that for Hayward, the dial is on the inlet side of the chlorinator.

  10. I have a Hayward CAT 2000 chemical pump. Last night came to find that there was chlorine all over because it had back flowed. What could cause this? We have used this type of chemical pump for years and this one is brand new for this season.
    Appreciate any ideas.

    • HI Martha, I suppose that what may have happened is that the injection fittings, which are like small check valves, may be damaged or be clogged with calcium, and this allows water in the return line to flow backwards in the hose, thru the chemical pump and into the vat. You can buy small inline check valves I believe, as a way to prevent backflow.

  11. I have the Hayward CL220. My system also has a heater. The installed the chlorinated inlet tube after the filter and the outlet tube after the heater. Some people are saying the inlet should go before the filter between the pump. Is it a problem that I have mine right after the filter? Will chlorine water travel to the heater when the pumps not running in my current setup?

    • Jae, you are correct that the method they followed is not aligned with the CL220 instructions. However, it should still work, and you will know if the tablets are dissolving and chlorinating the pool like they should, and I think you will find that. I don’t expect any problems with the way they installed it, and it may have less issues with clogging, actually, since it is drawing filtered water, without small bits of debris in it.

  12. Walter Bullard

    I have an old Hayward cl220m chlorinator what model is compatible with it

    • The CL220 is an offline model, I’m not sure about the “M”, but if it is a 9 lb unit, you could just replace with the regular CL220 we sell now.

  13. I have an inline CL200. My pucks are not dissolving. Water is feeding through the feeder tube just fine. I turned on the pump with the cover off when troubleshooting. Water went about 3ft high. Where could this unit get clogged? I took the pucks out and the bottom was free of sludge. What am I missing?

    • Hi Derek, on the incoming side you’ll see the standpipe, a pencil width column that comes up about half-way vertically… on the opposite side, in the center of the center block, you’ll see a tiny hole, about 1/8″ dia. that can become clogged with tablet residue. pull out all the tabs and drain, and use some gloves and (wear your mask!), and you can clean it out, as well as any goo throughout the chamber, which can naturally build up over time. Thanks, good question!

      • Thank you for the quick reply. Perhaps use a nail to carefully scrape around the 1/8″ hole? Is the hole connected to the exterior valve control nob someway? Water must exit toward the bottom of the chamber. I can’t get at that. Might something clog at the bottom too or just that 1/8″ hole?

        • YEs, exactly just something like a paperclip or nail to ream out the hole, I should have said…

  14. Lori Walsh

    We have a CL200 and its leaking from the base of the unit. This will be our 4th season with it. The water is dripping out of the black base where the outtake of the chlorinator is. Is there a fix for this or is this a replacement issue now.

    • Lori, if it is the inline version, dripping from the base, check that the water is not running down the sides, from the lid, or dripping from the dial assembly, or from the drain plug. If it is not those, it may be cracked underneath, which would mean complete replacement.

  15. I just installed a new inline CL200. I turned the flow control valve all the way to OFF as a set point to get the valve setting calibrated over a few days while I tested chlorine levels in the pool. But I kept getting chlorine in the pool. I took the lid off the CL200 and ran my pool pump at low speed (750 RPM) and noticed that even with the flow control valve set to OFF, water bubbled up into the CL200. Does this mean I have a faulty CL200?

    • Hi Jim, I don’t think it’s faulty, but that OFF really means ‘really low’. 🙂 Another variable to the delivery of chlorine is the number of tablets in the feeder. When it’s full, even a setting of 1 may be enough, but as the tablets dissolve, a higher setting is needed, to maintain a consistent level.

  16. Hi just had our brand new pool installed including a Hayward cl200 chlorine feeder. I went to turn the dial back from full chlorine setting and it seems to be seized. Can’t turn by hand. I’m about to apply a pair of pliers to see if it frees up. Just wondering if anyone else has had the dial seize up.

  17. Joe Royer

    How do you remove the crust inside the CL200 chlorinater? Is there some screen etc. on the inside of the control valve? Other than replacing the O ring, is there any other cleaning necessary? I set the control valve at a low setting to avoid leaking through the top.

    • Hi Joe, the white-ish residue found inside chlorinators is common, and can be removed with a flat instrument like the back of a hacksaw blade, to scrape the top of the chamber. Wear gloves and use a clean rag to wipe up any gummy residue inside the chamber and greasy residue around the threads and lid. Use a nail, or other long, thin steel device to ream out the hole of the overflow ‘standpipe’, which often develops crust around the top edge, and also the small inlet hole, which can also become restricted over time. Do not use any chemicals to clean a chlorinator, which could have a nasty reaction to the chlorine. If you are leaking through the top, your lid likely fits poorly, or an o-ring is missing. You can take apart the lid into the component pieces. leaking around outside is the CLX200K o-ring, or leaking thru the middle it may be loose or need new teflon washers.
      hayward chlorinator

  18. How do I tell if I have the lines hooked up correctly. I have 16×32 in ground pool and I recently put in an auto Chlorinator but it does not seem to be putting chlorine in my pool help

    • Hi, on both inline and offline chlorinators, there are small arrows imprinted on the in/out ports of the chlorinator, to indicate direction of water flow. For offline feeders with hoses, the hoses should be attached to the pipes, both After the pump. The inlet hose is usually attached between pump and filter, and the outlet hose is usually attached after the filter, on the return line.

  19. Don Stappenbeck

    My CL220 chlorinator is leaking at the control knob.Is there a fix for that?

    • Hi Don, there is a small o-ring and a tiny nylon washer on the knob, that must be the reason. CLX200PA is the part number.

  20. My CL200 runs at max chlorination at all settings. Is there a rebuild kit?

    • Hi Matt, that would likely be a bad Control Valve gasket – that part is CLX200PA. There are Hayward Chlorinator O-ring Kits, but they don’t include the tiny gasket on the Control Knob.

  21. Phyllis J West

    we have a Hayward Model CL100 and use the large chlorine tablets. When I check it, I put in tablets to the top so that I’m not adding tablets daily. However my husband says someone told him you should only have a max of 2 to 3 tablets in it at a time because the water won’t circulate thru if you use more tablets. What’s the correct # of tablets to use? Thank you!!

    • Hi Phyllis, there is no correct number of tabs, but the more tabs you use, the stronger the setting will be, in other words, a setting of 3 with 3 tablets will release less chlorine than a setting of 3 with 5 tablets…

  22. Ron Schuler

    I re-installed the Hayward CL-220 chlorine feeder. The only change made was to re-locate the return line from the feeder to the return line to the pool. I placed the feeder return line approximately 12 inches higher than the base of the CL-220. Since doing this chlorine is not feeding into the pool. Do I need to have the chlorine feeder line lowered?

    • Hi Ron, no that should not the problem. I would check that the arrow is aligned, and the chlorinator is not backwards. Or check the check valve fitting to be sure it is operating, and be sure the hoses are not clogged. There is a fitting and hose kit, CLX220GA that you may need. You can test the chlorinator if you pull off the hose at the point where it attaches to the return line, and turn the pump on, (with your thumb covering the return line fitting), to see if chlorinated water comes out of the end of the hose. (?)

  23. After 3-4 years, I have trouble closing the lid all the way to the locked position. Because I cant close the lid all the way it starts leaking out of the lid. Is there a fix for this (replace the O-ring) or do I need to buy a new unit every 3-4 years?

  24. I’m wanting to install a CL200 on my above ground 54″×18’pool my question is can I just use the regular return hoses with adapters for the chlorinator instead of hard piping.

    • Hi Michael, yes, you can use regular hose adapters, hoses and clamps with the CL200. For stability, mount the unit to a 6×6 block of lumber or a few 2×4’s nailed together, or a cinder block.

  25. CURTIS E KNIGHT

    To check my unit for proper output I disconnect the output line with pump on. Water will flow out from pool line so careful or you will get sprayed. Watch the chlorinator output line while you adjust the input. You should see the output increase and decrease as you do this. If it does then unit is ok. If not, then you may have a plugged check valve.

  26. Bob Dunning

    Hayward CL220. Fills to the brim no problem with cover off. Unscrew the top the next day and there is no water in it. (and no chlorine in the pool) Dial set at max. Pool pump is variable speed set at 1800 rpm. Runs 24/7. Does the Hayward need more speed/pressure to operate correctly? There is a Polaris pump downstream from the Hayward that runs 3hr/day. I can imagine this may suck water away from the Hayward. But why wouldn’t it refill itself after the Polaris shuts down for the day?

    • Hi Bob, I would experiment with A). Running the filter pump for a day without running the Polaris, and B). Running the pump on high speed for a day – it’s possible that either one of your theories may prove true.

  27. Robin Weekes

    Hi. I have a 9X18 above ground pool and would like to install an offline chlorinator. How do I install with flexible hoses? Don’t want to drill into one. Please advise and tell me which model to buy.
    Robin

    • Hi Robin, it would be easier to install an in-line chlorinator, like the Aquasplash chlorinator, used with two hose adapters, and two 1.5″ SS clamps.

      • Robin Weekes

        Thanks. Do the hose adapters and clamps come with the chlorinator?

        • Hi Robin, no they are not included, all would need to be ordered separately, chlorinator and 2 adapters and 2 clamps.

          • Robin Weekes

            Thanks. Do I need a check valve installed? Does one come with the Aquasplash chlorinator?

          • Hi Robin, no need for a check valve, unless the chlorinator is installed at the same level as the filter – if at ground level, no worries. Check valves are most commonly used with chlorinators when a gas heater is installed just a few feet before a chlorinator, and especially if the chlorinator height is close to the heater in/out header, to prevent chlorine from backing up into the heater, when the pump shuts off.

  28. Dennis Nelson

    I have an installed Hayward automatic chlorinator for my in ground pool, and it seems to be clogged. I’ve removed the chlorinator feed line and tried to “blow out” from the “IN” side, but am unable to force any air through the inlet into the main chamber-which is why I believe it’s clogged. You mentioned that only water should be used to clean the chlorinator, but that doesn’t seem to work either. I’ve only had the chlorinator for 2 years and don’t believe it should need replacing. Your thoughts?

    • Hi Dennis, I assume this is an off-line chlorinator with hoses? If so, the check valve fitting is usually clogged up with scale or gunky tablet residue. CLX220EA fittings pack will fix that up. If your unit is inline (no external hoses), I have had success before using an unbent paper clip, to ream out the standpipe and inlet holes. Only two years? Might be poor quality tablets with oily binders?

  29. Paula Peabody

    My Hayward CL200 bit the dust. The people that open my pool connected the two in-line fitting and adaptor assembly via the black tubing.

    Rather than my having the piping re-done is there a cap available that can fit the in-line fitting????

    Thank you.

    • Hi Paula, do you mean you had a CL220, the OFF-line model with the hoses? Generally when OFF-line feeders are removed, you can just connect the hose from the supply fitting to the injection fitting, or you can tap the holes and insert a threaded plug in the PVC pipe.

  30. Eric Standley

    I have the above ground chlorinator. My question is: with the lid off, if I adjust the dial, should I notice a difference in water flow through the vertical tube? Even if I turn the dial off, water keeps coming up the tube. It’s definitely chlorinating my pool, but I question whether an adjustment is actually adjusting anything. I just bought it last year, thoughts?

    • Hi Eric, that’s the general idea I believe, turning up the dial should result in more water flow into the feeder. If you are not seeing that, perhaps it is because the lid is off, or maybe the tube is clogged somewhat, not sure of the right answer.

  31. I have an in ground liner pool, mounting an inline chlorinator at ground level is not possible, I would like to mount it lower than the filter head against the wall but cannot find any brackets or devices that are made for my situation.
    What are your thoughts on solid mounting to the filter head with a check valve.
    I used to mount it inline at head level a foot away from filter but stopped due to the instability of this set up.
    So far i have resorted to using a floatie in the pool but am concerned that the floater will damage the liner since it has a tendency to stay in one spot against the wall if the pump is off
    Appreciate your thoughts on the matter.

    • Hi Justin, yes floaters are not recommended for vinyl pools, because of your concern of sitting in one spot, or getting stuck on a step or against a ladder, but also because some floaters have low openings that can drop slivers of dissolved tablets, or if it were to tip over… bad stains and damage to the liner. I like the idea of hard plumbing it on the exit (Return) port of the MPV, using a check valve (1.5 lb to 2 lb) between the filter and the chlorinator (I assume there is no heater on your system). You could also strap it to the wall using plumbers strapping, or mount it on top of a long block of 6″x6″ lumber, building a shelf of sorts, if more stability is needed.

  32. Joan thompson

    Where can I buy the wrench to remove the lid on the inlinechlorinator

    • Hi Joan, look online for item PP-Wrench, or DG3-1 – aftermarket wrenches for the Hayward CL200/CL220 lids

  33. I have an above ground metal frame/soft side pool. 15′ I have recently bought the Hayward CL100. I know it says to install at ground level. Is this still so since the water return is near the top of the pool?

    • Davy Merino

      Hi, it’s so that when the pump is off, the chlorine, which may ‘ooze’ out of the chlorinator when the pump is off, won’t run downhill, or into other equipment, like the pump, filter, heater. In your case, it is also so that it won’t continue to dribble into the pool return line, when the pump is off, as such it could damage the vinyl liner. It’s also because at ground level, you get more leverage to remove the lid easily, without twisting the pipe or hose. Best to secure the CL100 to a large block of wood or a paver, to hold it steady, and keep it off the dirt.

  34. I have a 2″ pipe going into the pool with a variable speed pump. Is the cl200 going to restrict the flow to the pool?

    • Davy Merino

      Hi, Chlorinators do add some level of resistance when added on the return pipe (after all other equipment), and more resistance if you use a check valve. Off line feeders of course, have much less resistance than inline models, and Pentair may have less resistance than Hayward feeders. The amount of resistance is not published, but is likely low, about as much as adding a 90 fitting perhaps.

  35. Rodney Dillinger

    I just purchased automatic chlorine feeder CL100. I afraid it’s not what I need for my above ground pool. It has the small tubing for installation. I think I need the other size?

    • Davy Merino

      Hi Rodney, if you mean it has the small black tubing, for offline installation, that would be the CL110 model. If you bought it from us, it probably is the CL110ABG, I don’t think we even sell the CL100 model (inline). You could also use the $34 Swimline chlorinator with two hose adapters, for most aboveground pools. It’s an inground feeder, but you can use an inground feeder in most cases, unless you have a very small pump, on a very small pool. If you bought from us, see our returns page if you want to return the CL110 for credit.

      • So, the outlet on our hayward sand filter is at the top not near ground level. I will have to route pvc down to groind level, attach to chlorinator, then all the way back up to the pool water return. Correct?

        • Hi Robyn, that is correct, you can use 45’s or 90’s to come down to ground level, run thru the chlorinator then back up to pool return level. Cut several blocks of 6×6 wood, or use one long piece, and it can support the chlorinator and the pipe, using U brackets to strap the pipe down, and heavy screws to bolt down the chlorinator.

  36. I bought the Hayward CL200 in line. I installed today. It seems that it doesn’t fill with water, I took the lid off let the pump fill the Hayward up and replaced the lid. I did notice that the water does drain rather quickly from the Hayward when I take the lid off, is that normal?

    Also I’ve noticed a lot of noise coming from the Hayward, not sure if that’s normal? Sounds like the water swirling inside, but it’s louder then my pump, is that normal? I thought you shouldn’t hear the water swirling inside at all…personally it just seems to me that it’s just not filling with water, even after letting it fill with the lid off.

    I just want to know if it’s normal to hear anything coming from the Hayward, or is it supposed to be dead silent? Also is it possible that I got a dud from the factory?

    • Davy Merino

      Hi John, it is normal that the chlorinator drains, and some swirling noise also is normal. A few questions for you – you did install it in the direction of the water flow arrow? And is installed after all other equipment, last on the line, at or near ground level? And is the filter pressure the same? An inline chlorinator may raise filter pressure by 1 psi or maybe 2 psi normally, but if pressure is much higher than before, there is too much restriction. A third question would be, now that a day has passed, are the tablets dissolving and maintaining the chlorine level? If pressure is normal, and chlorine is going into the water, you’re likely ok. Probably not a dud unit, never heard of that, but there could be some obstruction – check that the standpipe is clear on the side, and on the opposite side, that the small hole is not clogged.

  37. Leonard Phillips

    I cannot find what number I should set my chlorinator on. Is it in the middle at 5 or lower to 3? What do the numbers mean anyway? I am not sure and have not really gotten a great answer from my local pool store. There certainly is nothing in the instructions that came with the unit. Any help would be appreciated.

    • HI, great question. When you turn the dial up, it increases water flow into the unit, which ultimately sends more chlorine out of the unit. The way to dial-in a tablet feeder is to use a set number of tablets, whatever you use, 6 or 12, whatever but consistent. Find the setting that produces the chlorine level in the pool that you want for everyday chlorine levels. Let’s say that a dial setting of 5 produces a consistent 1.5 ppm in the pool, as verified by your test kit or strips. That’s where you want to set it. However, as the tablets dwindle, from 6 or 9 large tablets, to 5 or 6 small tablets, the output will be less, and the chlorine level will drop somewhat in the pool, so you may need to turn it up a notch after the first week or so, to maintain consistency, say from 5 to 7 (on a scale of 10). And, when weather turns very hot, and the water warms, a higher setting will be needed, because your pool needs more chlorine. Same thing with high pH or low stabilizer levels, also call for a higher setting, to maintain a constant and consistent chlorine level, as verified, by your testing.

  38. With the Hayward auto chemical feeder, CL200, will I need a check valve between the sand filter and chemical feeder? I do not have a heater to worry about. Can i install feeder without the check valve?

    • Davy Merino

      Hi Monte, no need for a check valve, especially if the chlorinator is mounted at or near ground level, not up at the same level as the filter.

  39. Robin Callihan

    Do you have to have a check valve after the sand tank on an off line feeder (cl-110abg) if you do not have a heater?

    • Davy Merino

      Hi Robin, no need for a check valve if you don’t have a heater, and – the discharge hose pumps the chlorine into the pipe at a point much lower than the sand filter valve height. Install close to where the return pipe goes into the ground.

  40. I have my above ground pool pump on a timer. Do I need to manually turn the cl200 to “0” whenever my pump is off?

    • Hi Kim, no, you shouldn’t need to do that. When the pump is off, the chlorine should stay in the chamber, with some oozing out, but the equal pressure on the suction and return lines should keep the chlorine from moving through the pipes. If you suspect or worry about chlorine backing up into your filter or pump, you could install a one-way check valve, between the Cl200 and the filter, to prevent chlorine from flowing into the filter/pump or heater. If you CL200 is at ground level, a foot or two below the filter or heater intakes level, there is less concern of a problem.

  41. Thomas K Sullivan

    do you have to have the chlorinator at a certain water level to work?

    • Hi, for a Hayward chlorinator, the chamber should be filled with water. Some chlorinators may drain out, when you remove the lid, but one thing you can do is start the pump with the lid off, allow the chamber to fill and then screw on the lid right before it overflows. If it does not fill up with water, and the dial is all the way up, there may be a clog in the unit, which can be flushed out, or remove the dial assembly to clear.

      • Tom Hargrove

        water comes in but does not exit the vertical tube. I cleaned the tube, but can’t get it out to go further. suggestions?

        • Davy Merino

          Hi Tom, the standpipe or vertical tube may be jammed with gunky residue. If you have a compressor or a bicycle pump, or a bellows, or maybe even a shop vac, you can force air into the vertical tube, to try and clear out the residue. I wish there was a chemical that would clean chlorinators, but no. It is helpful to use a butter knife or a rag, to clean off the gunk from the lid and upper chamber areas, to reduce the possibility of it being sucked into the tube.

  42. What size bolts are used for mounting the base?

    • Davy Merino

      Hi, to mount the base of the chlorinator, I would use a hefty screw, probably as large as would fit through the hole. Sorry I don’t know an exact size. It’s also recommended to use a anchor sockets or sleeves for the screws.

  43. Cathy Houston

    What about the HAYWARD CL100 for above ground pools. First time pool owners,and needing a little guidance. The chlorine tabs are not dissolving in the auto-feeder and no water is in container. I have looked for troubleshooting but am having no luck in figuring what to do. Any help for the next step would be greatly appreciated.

    • Davy Merino

      Hi Cathy, the Hayward is the inline version for aboveground pools. If you disconnected it for the winter, make sure it is installed in the right direction, look for a small arrow on the bottom to indicate proper direction of water flow. If that’s good, take the lid off and turn the dial up all the way (you may have to shut off the pump to open the lid). With the pump on, the chlorinator should fill up with water and begin to slowly overflow. If that doesn’t happen, remove all the tablets and clean out the small check valve in the bottom and also the water inlet hole, with a small wire or paperclip. Calcium residues can clog these small orifices. If that doesn’t work, check the action on the dial, you should see more water come in as you turn the dial up, if not, it may need some parts like the check valve or the dial assembly, which we have in our parts department!

  44. How do you unclog CL200 chlorinator?

    • Hi Jacen, there are two main areas inside the chamber that can clog. ONe is the standpipe, which is about 5″ long, and affixed to one side. A long piece of wire can be used to clean any deposits. You can also flush with a garden hose (gently). There is another small hole on the other side near the bottom, very small about 1/8″ diameter than is not very deep. This can clog more easily than the standpipe. A paperclip, or bent wire can be used to ream out the hole. Now you asked about CL200 inline models, but for those with the CL220 Offline models, the clog problem is usually in the check valve fitting that screws onto the feeder, and the injector fittings that clamp onto the pipes. For best results, replace these doodads every 1-2 seasons, with the fitting kit CLX220EA.

  45. Virginia Brehmer

    We recently bought one of these. The CL200. And it does not seem to maintain the pool well at all. Pool is co Stanton turning every few days. And Alger is returning. I have turned it up to the 3/4 mark it came home today after filling the tablets and my pool is green. Have used chlorinated in the past and loved them. This is beginning to be a nightmare.

    • Hi Virginia, there are many variables at play, such as your pool water pH level and your level of cyanuric acid, or stabilizer, and your filter efficiency and pump circulation are also important. It’s not just the chlorinator that keeps your pool clean and clear. Now if all else is doing great, water is balanced and the filter is properly sized and effective, but your chlorinator does not deliver the amount of chlorine necessary for a consistent 1-2 ppm test reading, then there could be some problems, like we list in the article above. Off-line units need regular check valve and injector replacements found in the hose kits. Inline units need occasional cleaning of the standpipe (just ream it out with a wire), and make sure the small water intake hole is also clear (ream with a wire or paperclip). they can get clogged up with a gunky calcium buildup over time. Let me know if I can help further!

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