Pool Heater Repair and Maintenance
Follow the guidelines in the manufacturer’s manual when servicing or repairing a pool heater or related equipment. Some manufacturers also permit the downloading of manuals from their online web site. If a manual is unavailable and you do not have the necessary experience to do the work without one, call the pool heater manufacturer or a local dealer for help.
The following suggestions for servicing and repairing pool heaters apply to all makes and models:
1. Perform a major inspection and servicing of the pool, pool heater, pump, and related components just before putting the pool into operation and just after closing it down if the pool is used only part of the year.
2. Perform periodic inspections and maintenance if the pool is used throughout the year.
3. Replace worn parts with new ones. Do not attempt to reuse them or make temporary repairs.
4. Inspect and clean or replace pool filters on a regular basis.
5. Inspect the pool heater for sooting (a combustion problem).
6. Inspect the pool heater for water leaks (all heaters), gas leaks (gas-fired units), and oil leaks (oil-fired units).
7. Check all pipe connections for tightness and corrosion.
8. Check wiring for damaged wires and loose connections.
9. Check for proper burner flame characteristics on gas-fired and oil-fired heaters. The pilot flame of a gas-fired heater should also be included when making this inspection.
10. Inspect the heat exchanger for scaling.
11. Remove leaves and other debris from the top of the pool heater.
Note
Always shut off the pool heater and allow it time to cool down before servicing it or making repairs.
Caution
To avoid injury from electrical shock, always shut off the electrical power before servicing the line voltage controls. Never leave a jumper wire in place to fix a heater or the operating and safety controls will be bypassed.
Warning
If gas odors are detected when repairing or servicing a gas-fired pool heater, immediately contact your local utility for instructions.
If the pool is located indoors, leave the house and make the call from a neighbor’s telephone.
Troubleshooting Pool Heaters and Equipment Always review the pool heater manufacturer’s installation and/or operating manual for recommended troubleshooting procedures. If no manual is available, it may be possible to download one for the specific pool heater or equipment from the manufacturer’s online web address. As a last resort, Tables 5-3, 5-4, and 5-5 list frequent problems, their symptoms, and possible remedies.
Caution
These troubleshooting procedures may require connections to electrical terminals and jumper wires to check and determine the cause of an operating problem. To avoid injury from electrical shock, always shut off the electrical power before servicing the line voltage controls. Never leave a jumper wire in place to fix a heater or the operating and safety controls will be bypassed.
Caution
Never attempt to troubleshoot or service a pump or pump motor if you are standing on a wet or damp surface or if your hands are wet. The electrical connection can cause serious shock, injury, or even death.
Note
A pump may start unexpectedly if it is equipped with an automatic resetting thermal protector.