Adding Spa Control to Hayward Automation? What the HL485SPAKIT Includes (and Who Needs It)
If you run a pool and spa combo on Hayward automation, the switch between pool mode and spa mode only works when the plumbing valves actually turn. That job belongs to valve actuators, and the Hayward HL485SPAKIT packs everything you need for that setup into one box: two valve actuators, one smart relay, a junction box, and a 6-foot whip.
We sell a lot of these kits to people mid-project who bought the automation panel first and then realized the valves don't move themselves. This post covers what each part in the HL485SPAKIT does, who actually needs it, and when you're better off buying pieces separately.
What does the Hayward HL485SPAKIT come with?
The kit includes two valve actuators, one smart relay, a junction box, and a 6-foot whip. That's the standard hardware list for automating a shared-equipment pool and spa.
- Two valve actuators. These motorized units bolt onto your suction and return diverter valves. When you hit spa mode, they rotate the valves so water pulls from the spa and returns to the spa instead of the pool.
- One smart relay. The relay lets your automation panel switch a piece of equipment on and off, like a booster pump, blower, or spa jet pump.
- Junction box and 6-foot whip. These handle the wiring connections so the install looks clean and stays protected from weather.
Who actually needs this kit?
You need the HL485SPAKIT if your pool and spa share one pump and filter and you want your Hayward automation system to handle the switch between them. Without actuators, changing modes means walking out to the equipment pad and turning valve handles by hand.
It's also the common answer when someone is adding a spa to an existing automated pool. The panel can already run schedules and equipment, but spa mode needs two actuators (one suction side, one return side) plus a relay for whatever extra equipment the spa brings, usually a blower or jet pump. That's exactly what's in this box.
If you have a standalone pool with no spa, you probably don't need this kit. A single actuator for a water feature valve, or a standalone relay, can be bought on its own.
Is the HL485SPAKIT compatible with my system?
The kit is built for Hayward automation systems that support smart relays and standard valve actuators. Hayward actuators use the industry-standard mounting pattern, so they fit the common diverter valves you'll find on most equipment pads.
Before ordering, check two things. First, confirm your automation panel has an open valve output for each actuator and an open slot for the relay. Second, confirm your diverter valves accept a standard actuator mount. Your panel's manual lists both, and if you're not sure, send us your panel model and we'll check it for you.
Kit vs. buying the parts separately: which is cheaper?
Buying the bundle is usually cheaper than piecing it together. Two actuators alone typically run a few hundred dollars each at retail, and the relay, junction box, and whip add more on top. The HL485SPAKIT puts all of it in one order at one price, and you know the parts are matched to work together.
Buying separately makes sense only when you already own part of the setup. If one old actuator failed and the rest of your system works fine, replace just the actuator. No point paying for a relay you won't use.
A quick note on installation
Mounting the actuators is a job most handy pool owners can do. You remove the valve handle, set the valve position, bolt the actuator on top, and set the toggle switch. The relay and whip wiring is a different story. That work happens inside a live panel, so if you're not comfortable with high-voltage wiring, bring in a licensed electrician or pool tech. It's a short job for a pro.
The bottom line on the HL485SPAKIT
For a shared pool and spa on Hayward automation, the HL485SPAKIT is the one-box answer: two actuators to flip your valves, a smart relay for the extra equipment, and the junction box and whip to wire it cleanly. If your spa mode still means turning handles by hand, this kit is the fix.
Hayward | HL485SPAKIT | Two Valve Actuators, 1 Smart Relay, J-Box & 6’ Whip Kit
$639.99
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