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Owning a pool is a luxury that brings endless enjoyment, particularly during the warm summer months. However, to maximize the pleasure of swimming, particularly in the cooler months, a properly functioning pool heater is essential. Regular pool heater maintenance not only ensures optimal performance but also extends the lifespan of your equipment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to maintaining your pool heater, complete with essential tips and tricks.

Understanding Your Pool Heater

Before diving into maintenance tips, it’s important to understand the basic types of pool heaters:

• Gas Heaters: These use natural gas or propane to heat the pool water. They are known for their ability to quickly raise the water temperature, making them a popular choice for those who use their pool sporadically.
• Electric Heat Pumps: These heaters extract heat from the air and transfer it to the pool water. They are energy-efficient and ideal for maintaining consistent temperatures.

Regular Pool Heater Maintenance Tips

Inspect The Heater Regularly

Regular inspections are crucial for spotting potential issues before they become major problems. Check for visible signs of wear and tear, such as rust, corrosion, or leaks. 

Keep The Area Clean

Ensure the area around your pool heater is clean and free from debris. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can obstruct airflow in heat pumps and gas heaters, affecting their efficiency. Trim back any overhanging branches or plants that could drop leaves into the system.

Unobstructed Airflow

Just as it is important to keep the area clear around your heater for safety and to make it easier to spot potential issues, it is equally important to ensure there is adequate airflow around the unit. In the case of a natural gas or propane heater, air is required to support clean and safe combustion. In the case of a heat pump, adequate airflow is needed so that the unit can harness the heat energy effectively and efficiently. Since a heat pump works similarly to a typical household air conditioning system, it pulls air through a coil that forms the sides of the unit. This coil can become obstructed by airborne dirt, dust, pollen, and other debris. It is important to ensure that these surfaces are kept clean by rinsing them off periodically. 

Check The Filters

Pool heaters themselves do not have filters. The pool system does have a sand or cartridge type filter, but these items filter all the water for the entire system, and the pool heater simply benefits from that. Clogged filters can impede the flow of water, causing the heater to work harder and potentially leading to overheating or damage. Clean or replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer.

Monitor Water Chemistry

Maintaining balanced water chemistry is essential for the longevity of your pool heater. Imbalanced pH levels can lead to corrosion or scale buildup inside the heater, reducing efficiency and potentially causing damage. Regularly test your pool water and adjust the chemical levels as necessary.

Winterize Your Heater

If you live in an area with cold winters, it’s important to winterize your pool heater to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. Drain all water from the heater and disconnect any power sources. For gas heaters, turn off the gas supply. Consider covering the heater with a weatherproof cover to protect it from the elements.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with regular pool heater maintenance, it may experience issues from time to time. Here’s how to troubleshoot some common problems:

Heater Won’t Turn On

• Check Power Supply: Ensure the heater is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
• Thermostat Settings: Verify that the thermostat is set to a temperature higher than the current pool temperature.

Poor Heating Performance

•  Inspect The Filtration System – If your heater is not performing properly or it is not firing up, but your pump is running, you could have a restriction in your sand or cartridge filter system. Check your pressure gauge. If the pressure is registering high, it may be time to perform a backwash or clean the cartridge filter.
• Gas Supply: For gas heaters, check that the gas supply is sufficient and that there are no leaks.

Unusual Noises

• Loose Parts: Examine the heater for any loose parts or debris that could be causing the noise.
• Water Flow Issues: Ensure there are no obstructions in the water flow that could be causing the heater to struggle.

When To Call A Professional

While regular maintenance can prevent many issues, there are times when professional help is necessary. If your heater is still not functioning properly after troubleshooting, or if you notice significant rust, corrosion, or any gas leaks, it’s best to call a qualified technician. They can provide a thorough inspection and repair to ensure your pool heater operates safely and efficiently.

Pool Heater Maintenance, Repair, & Installation In Whitby, Oshawa & The GTA

Regular pool heater maintenance is required to keep it in top condition, ensuring you can enjoy warm, comfortable swims whenever you desire. By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can extend the life of your pool heater and maintain its efficiency. Remember, when in doubt, seeking professional advice can save you time and money in the long run. Taunton Trades provides an array of pool heater services to homeowners in Durham and the GTA.  Enjoy your pool to the fullest by keeping your heater well-maintained and ready for use. Call our HVAC specialists at 905-493-4227 or email admin@tauntontrades.com.