Swim-Mor Pools & Spas

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What to Do When Your Pool Heater Breaks Down

If your pool heater stops working, it can be a frustrating experience. Pool heaters are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, but they can still break down or require maintenance. While you might be handy around appliances, it is best to consult with a pool repair professional to handle the repair efficiently. If you’re unsure about who to call, visit a dealer locator to find a pool service technician in your area who specializes in repairing pool heaters.

How to Keep Your Pool Heater in Good Condition

Pool heaters generally don’t require a lot of maintenance. An annual inspection is all you need to ensure that your pool heater works efficiently. Pool heaters are constructed using high-tech materials, which makes them corrosion-free and long-lasting. With proper use and care, your pool heater should have a long lifespan of up to 10, 15, or even 20 years. Most pool heater failures are caused by external factors rather than normal usage.

To ensure that your pool heater lasts as long as possible, keep it clean and as dry as possible. Trim back foliage around and above the heater to reduce debris and moisture. Also, clean the heater and sweep under the burner tray to remove any leaves off the heat exchanger. Additionally, use mint sachets or mothballs to drive away rodents and pests during winter.

What Are Your Pool Heater Repair Options?

If your pool heater isn’t working, you need to figure out what is wrong. Here are some common issues that pool owners encounter with their pool heaters:

  • The pilot won’t light: This could be due to low gas pressure, poor ventilation, inadequate air supply, or other gas line problems. If you’ve checked that the gas is turned on and there is no settled water flooding the equipment, check that the pilot tubing is intact and not clogged and that the pilot orifice isn’t clogged with rust or small bugs.
  • The pilot lights but doesn’t stay lit: This could be due to a bad thermocouple or dust build-up on the thermocouple blocking the sensor. If cleaning the thermocouple doesn’t work, you may need to replace the entire pilot assembly.
  • The pool heater won’t ignite: Check that the heater is turned on, the gas valve is in the “on” position, and the thermostat is set to a higher temperature. If these are all set correctly, there could be several reasons why the heater won’t light the burner tray.
  • The heater won’t reach the desired temperature: Check that the thermostat is set correctly, and that the temperature sensor is not faulty or incorrectly installed. Faulty exhaust or a malfunctioning upper limit switch could also be the cause.
  • The heater cycles on and off: Test your pool water chemistry, and inspect the various components for damage and deterioration. Cycling on and off could be a sign of a bad electrical connection or power supply to your pool heater.

If your pool heater needs a complicated and expensive repair, it might be more cost-effective to buy a new pool heater. If you choose to buy a new pool heater, it’s best to hire a skilled pool technician to install the replacement. If yours is natural gas-powered, bring in a professional gas contractor to install the connection.

The dedicated team at Swim-Mor Pools & Spas is here to help. With over 50 years of experience, they’ll be able to answer any of your questions and help you find the best options available. Contact us today!

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