Published by Anthony on 04/10/2025
Affordable Alternative: Hayward W3T-CELL-15 Turbo Cell 40,000 Gallon
Choosing the Right Replacement Salt Cell for Hayward AquaRite Systems: Hayward vs. Hydrotools
If you own a Hayward AquaRite salt chlorination system, keeping your pool water clean and properly sanitized is effortless—until your salt cell reaches the end of its lifespan. The salt cell is a critical component, converting salt into chlorine to keep your pool sparkling clean and swimmer-friendly. When it’s time to replace this essential part, choosing the right replacement can make all the difference in performance and cost.
At EZ Pool & Spa Supply, we’re here to help you navigate your options. Today, we’re comparing two excellent replacement salt cells for pools up to 40,000 gallons: the Hayward AquaRite 40K Replacement TurboCell (W3T-CELL-15) and the Hydrotools 40,000 Gallon Replacement Salt Cell (87640CELL). Both are compatible with Hayward AquaRite systems, but they differ in price and branding. Let’s dive into the details to help you decide which one is best for your pool.
Understanding Your Options
Hayward AquaRite 40K Replacement TurboCell (W3T-CELL-15)
- Brand: Genuine Hayward product
- Cord Length: 15 feet
- Pool Capacity: Up to 40,000 gallons
- Key Features:
- Industry-leading chlorine output.
- Certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) for safety and performance.
- Designed specifically for seamless compatibility with Hayward systems.
- Delivers twice as much chlorine as non-genuine alternatives.
Hydrotools 40,000 Gallon Replacement Salt Cell (87640CELL)
- Brand: Hydrotools by Swimline (OEM-equivalent)
- Cord Length: 15 feet
- Pool Capacity: Up to 40,000 gallons
- Key Features:
- Reinforced housing with commercial-grade titanium plates for durability.
- Cost-effective alternative with comparable performance.
- Easy drop-in replacement compatible with Hayward AquaRite systems.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Hayward TurboCell (W3T-CELL-15) | Hydrotools Salt Cell (87640CELL) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Premium | Budget-friendly |
| Brand Reputation | Genuine Hayward product | Reliable OEM-equivalent alternative |
| Performance | High chlorine output | Comparable chlorine production |
| Durability | Proven longevity | Reinforced titanium plates |
| Ease of Installation | Seamless integration | Simple DIY-friendly installation |
Why Choose the Hayward TurboCell?
The Hayward TurboCell is an ideal choice for pool owners who value brand trust and proven performance. As a genuine product from Hayward, it’s specifically engineered for optimal compatibility with AquaRite systems. Its NSF certification guarantees reliable chlorine production and safety, making it a top-tier option for maintaining crystal-clear water.
One standout feature of the TurboCell is its ability to deliver twice as much chlorine as many non-genuine alternatives. This means you’ll spend less time managing water quality and more time enjoying your pool. Additionally, its durable construction ensures consistent performance over time, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners seeking premium quality.
Why Choose the Hydrotools Salt Cell?
For homeowners looking to save money without compromising on quality, the Hydrotools Salt Cell offers an excellent alternative. Manufactured by Swimline, this OEM-equivalent replacement provides reliable performance at a fraction of the cost of the Hayward TurboCell.
The Hydrotools cell features reinforced titanium plates that ensure efficient salt-to-chlorine conversion while enhancing durability. Its drop-in design makes installation straightforward, even for those who prefer a DIY approach. If affordability is your priority but you still want effective chlorination for pools up to 40,000 gallons, Hydrotools is a great option.
Which One Should You Choose?
The decision between these two replacement salt cells ultimately depends on your priorities:
- Choose the Hayward AquaRite TurboCell (W3T-CELL-15) if:
- You value brand reputation and certified performance.
- You want a product specifically designed by Hayward for long-term reliability.
- Opt for the Hydrotools Salt Cell (87640CELL) if:
- You’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative that doesn’t compromise on quality.
- You prefer an easy-to-install option that still delivers effective chlorination.
Final Thoughts
Both the Hayward TurboCell and Hydrotools Salt Cell are excellent choices for replacing your worn-out salt cell. While the Hayward option offers premium quality and trusted performance backed by industry certifications, the Hydrotools cell provides a more affordable solution without sacrificing functionality.
At EZ Pool & Spa Supply, we’re committed to helping you make informed decisions about your pool care needs. Whether you choose Hayward or Hydrotools, rest assured that both options will help keep your pool sparkling clean and ready for swimming all season long!