Pentair Equipment Troubleshooter

Step-by-step diagnostic wizard for MasterTemp/Max-E-Therm heaters, IntelliFlo VS pumps, and IntelliChlor salt chlorinators.

Select your Pentair equipment and describe the issue to get step-by-step troubleshooting guidance.

What type of Pentair equipment are you troubleshooting?

Select a category to begin the diagnostic process.

Which model do you have?

Select your specific Pentair model to see relevant symptoms.

I am a:

What symptom are you experiencing?

Click a symptom to see diagnostic steps.

About This Troubleshooting Tool

This interactive wizard covers Pentair pool equipment across three major product lines. Whether you are a pool homeowner trying to decode an error light or a service technician running a structured diagnostic, the wizard adapts to your role and gives you the right level of guidance.

The tool covers the MasterTemp and Max-E-Therm gas heaters, IntelliFlo and SuperFlo VS variable-speed pumps, and the IntelliChlor salt chlorinator. Each symptom card links to a full detailed guide when you need to go deeper.

Full Troubleshooting Guides by Model

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ERR IGN mean on a Pentair MasterTemp heater?

ERR IGN means Ignition Failure. The heater attempted to light three times and was unable to detect a flame. Common causes include a closed gas supply valve, insufficient gas pressure, a fouled igniter, or a clogged burner orifice. Start by verifying the gas supply is on and other gas appliances in your home are working. If the gas is fine, a technician will need to inspect the igniter and gas valve.

What does ERR PS mean on a MasterTemp?

ERR PS is the Water Pressure Switch error. The heater's pressure switch did not detect adequate water flow before attempting ignition. The most common causes are a dirty filter, a closed valve in the return line, or a pump that is not running at the required minimum flow. Clean the filter, open all valves, and verify the pump is running before calling a technician.

Why does my Pentair IntelliFlo pump show a Priming Failure alarm?

A Priming Failure alarm means the pump ran through its priming cycle but could not establish suction. Check that the water level in the pool is adequate (skimmer at least half full), inspect the pump lid O-ring, ensure all suction-side valves are fully open, and look for any air leaks on the suction plumbing. Running at maximum speed (3450 RPM) for a few minutes while adding water to the pump housing manually often helps.

What does the Low Salt light on an IntelliChlor mean?

The Low Salt light means the salt level in the pool has dropped below approximately 2700 ppm. At this level the IntelliChlor reduces or stops chlorine production to protect the cell. Test your salt level independently with a drop kit or digital meter, and if it is genuinely low, add pool salt and circulate for 24 hours before retesting. Note that cold water (below 60 degrees F) can cause the sensor to read lower than actual.

What does ERR HLS mean on a Pentair heater?

ERR HLS is the High Limit Switch error. This safety switch trips when it detects water temperature approaching an unsafe level, usually because of low flow through the heat exchanger. Check that the pump is providing adequate flow, the bypass valve is not diverting too much water away from the heater, and the filter is clean. If the switch trips repeatedly even with good flow, the switch itself or the heat exchanger may need professional inspection.

Can I use this tool if I am not a pool professional?

Yes. Select the "Homeowner" role in Step 3 and the wizard will show only the checks that are safe and practical for a non-professional to perform. Technician-level steps such as voltage measurements and component testing are hidden unless you switch to Technician mode. Always follow the safety warnings on screen, and consult a licensed pool service professional for any repair you are not comfortable performing.

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