The last thing you want at the peak of the cold season is a faulty pool heater. A pool heater is a vital piece of equipment in your pool that allows you to maintain comfortable temperatures by taking water from the pool to a heating tank that sends warm water back into the pool.
A pool heater allows you to extend the swim season by a couple of months or even engage in year-round swimming depending on the climate where you live. So, what do you do when your pool heater no longer works as it should?
In this blog post, we have compiled some common issues that you will face when you have a pool heater and how you can fix them easily.
Common Issues You Will Face When Having a Pool Heater
Pool Heater Won't Turn On, Stay On, or Won't Light Up
This is perhaps the most easily diagnosed issue that your pool heater can have. You do not need to closely observe your pool heater to know that it won't come on.
In some cases, it won't ignite or would come on but then keep going off. When this happens, it could be that your power source is not properly connected or the gas valve is off if you use a gas heater.
It could also be that your pool filter is clogged or broken, the filter valve is not open, or the temperature of your heater is not set properly. If the issue is that your pilot won't light, then it could be low gas pressure, poor air supply, or improper venting.
Inconsistent Water Flow
The flow of water is a huge factor in how your heater functions. If the pressure sensors in your pool heater do not work as they should, the flow of water might be disrupted. In most cases, when this happens, your pool heater would not come on until there is the right amount of pressure.
Poor circulation is not just bad for your pool heaters, it can also impact the sanitation of your pool, which is why it is important to get it fixed as soon as possible.
Pool Heater Not Heating to the Right Temperature
There is such a thing as the perfect temperature when it comes to your pool. The main reason you have a pool heater is to get a certain temperature regardless of the weather. When your pool heater is not getting the optimal temperature even when it is ignited, then it might be a sign that your temperature sensor is bad or that the thermostat is not properly set.
You should also pay attention to things such as the pool temperature level to be sure your pool is not too cold for the heater or that you have set the right temperature.
Heater Cycles On and Off
If your pool keeps turning on and off, it could be an indication of an electrical problem. The power source would almost always be the problem. Also, if there is some sort of chemical imbalance in your pool water, it might also affect your pool heater. Another cause of this might be that your filter is dirty and your valves are not properly opened.
Pool Heater Leaking Water
If your pool heater is leaking, then it might actually be a sign that your pool heater is ‘sweating'. Your pool heater goes through some defrosting occasionally which might cause a puddle of water to form around your water.
However, if there is more water than usual. The issue might be that your heat exchanger is damaged. It could also be that you have a loose connection somewhere or a leaky gasket.
Dark Exhaust or Rust Chips From Heater
If your pool heater is emitting dark exhaust, it is most likely a venting or air supply issue. It might just be that you have something blocking the valves. Also, if you observe rust chips in your pool while your heater is on, then the heater is corroded.
Unusual Noises
There is the right kind of noise for your pool heater to make. However, when your heater starts making whistling noises, it might be a sign that something is wrong with your heater.
Whistling sounds might be a sign of low gas pressure, blockages within the system, loose parts, or a faulty pressure switch,
How to Repair a Gas Pool Heater?
There are different types of pool heaters which can include solar covers, heat pumps, gas heaters, and electric heaters. If you live in extremely cold places, then a gas heater is your best bet as gas heaters are cheaper to use, more environmentally friendly, and heat your pool faster.
Depending on what the exact issue with your heater is, here are a few tips for pool heater repair:
- Basically, if you have a corroded heater causing rust chips in your heater, replace the corroded parts.
- If you have issues with the temperature in your pool or it is not igniting, try to reset the thermostat to get the temperature above the pool water's temperature.
- Clean out your pool heater's filters and then power it on.
- Check and replace your pilot tube if your pool heater won't ignite
- Check the gas supply valve and reconnect if disconnected if your pool heater does not come on.
- Check the vents and that the heater is not flooded where there is poor circulation. If there is any debris in the pilot tubing, clean it out. Also, open the valves to make sure the water circulates properly.
- Tighten loose parts of your heater where your heater is leaking. You can also replace the gasket as this is usually the common culprit.
- Maintain healthy water chemistry for your pool to prevent corrosion.
When To Replace a Pool Heater?
When your pool heater consistently exhibits any of the above issues and repair and maintenance can no longer keep up, then it might be time to replace your pool heater,
Typically, a pool heater should last seven to ten years, if your pool heater is older than this then you should consider a replacement.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Pool Heater?
To replace a problematic pool heater, you might spend anything between $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the type and brand of heater you choose. You should also factor in labor costs which might be anywhere between $1,000 to $1,500.
BMWemple Pools - The Most Trusted Pool Builder and Maintenance in Central Florida
Great maintenance will no doubt increase the lifespan of your pool heater. Hence consistently using a reliable pool repairs service like BMWemple Pools is a good way to prevent avoidable repair costs from ramping up. Contact BMWemple Pools to get started today!