Hayward AquaRite S3 25K
#3 in In-GroundFull review
For mid-size in-ground pools where a pool pro installs the system; it controls a Hayward VS pump and heater without separate automation.
Amazon $2,199.95$2,199.95
The Hayward AquaRite S3 25K is the better salt chlorinator overall, rated 3.3 to 3.0. The Hayward AquaRite S3 25K leads on warranty, certification and features. The CircuPool Universal25 wins on value. The CircuPool Universal25 costs $1,104.95 less ($1,095 vs $2,199.95).
CircuPool Universal25
#7 in In-GroundFull review
A low-cost way to replace a worn-out AquaRite-style system on a smaller pool (up to 25,000 gallons) without replumbing.
Amazon $1,095$1,095
Prices were last checked October 27, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Hayward AquaRite S3 25K for warranty (3-year cell, 3-year control center warranty vs 1-year cell, 1-year control center warranty), certification (Certified to NSF/ANSI 50 vs Not certified to NSF/ANSI 50) and features (Salt level readout, optional wi-fi module, works with hayward omni, cold-water shutoff, flow sensing, boost mode vs Salt level readout, cold-water shutoff, flow sensing, boost mode).
- Choose the CircuPool Universal25 for value ($1,095 for 1.2 lb of chlorine a day ($912 per lb/day) vs $2,200 for 1 lb of chlorine a day ($2,245 per lb/day)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every in-ground salt chlorinator; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Hayward AquaRite S3 25K | CircuPool Universal25 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 14 $2,200 for 1 lb of chlorine a day ($2,245 per lb/day) | 59 $1,095 for 1.2 lb of chlorine a day ($912 per lb/day) |
| Cell cost 20% | 50 no current cell price (neutral score used) | 76 Replacement cell $549 ($458 per lb/day) |
| Warranty 20% | 50 3-year cell, 3-year control center warranty | 0 1-year cell, 1-year control center warranty |
| Features 20% | 90 Salt level readout, optional wi-fi module, works with hayward omni, cold-water shutoff, flow sensing, boost mode | 55 Salt level readout, cold-water shutoff, flow sensing, boost mode |
| Certification 10% | 100 Certified to NSF/ANSI 50 | 0 Not certified to NSF/ANSI 50 |
Specifications
| Hayward AquaRite S3 25K | CircuPool Universal25 | |
|---|---|---|
| Output | ||
| Pool type | In-ground | In-ground |
| Rated pool size (maker) | 25,000 gal | 25,000 gal |
| Chlorine output | 1 lb/day | 1.2 lb/day |
| Salt level | 1,200 to 8,000 ppm (ideal 3,200) | 3,000 to 4,000 ppm (ideal 3,500) |
| NSF/ANSI 50 certified | Yes | No |
| Cell | ||
| Replacement cell | TCELLS325 | UL25-2200-4A-1RC |
| Replacement cell price | - | $549 |
| Self-cleaning | Yes | Yes |
| Plumbing size | 2 in | 2 in |
| Controls | ||
| Salt level readout | Yes | Yes |
| Flow sensing | Flow switch | Flow switch |
| Cold-water shutoff | Yes | Yes |
| Boost mode | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Optional module | No |
| App | Hayward OmniLogic | - |
| Automation compatibility | Hayward Omni | - |
| Voltage | 115/230 V | 115/230 V |
| Warranty and models | ||
| Warranty | 3 years | 1 years |
| Warranty terms | Hayward's brochure gives AquaRite S3 a 3-year warranty, longer when sold and installed by a Totally Hayward partner; the product page lists 3 years parts and 1 year labor. Cells (TurboCell) carry 3 years. Accessories 1 year; commercial use 1 year. | Sold as a 4-year limited warranty, prorated: parts free in year 1, then supplied at 25% (year 2), 50% (year 3) and 70% (year 4) of base price. No labor or shipping. DIY installation keeps the warranty. Commercial use: 1 year. |
| Released | 2022-03 | - |