Why Isn’t the Pool Heater Working?
A properly installed pool heater is durable and can help pool owners make the most of their investment by extending the pool season.
Heaters are a vital component of a swimming pool system. They make it easier to maintain comfortable pool temperatures and keep the swimming pool usable year-round. A properly installed pool heater is durable and can help pool owners make the most of their investment by extending the pool season. In addition, it gives the pool owners the freedom to use their swimming pool during winter and spend more time enjoying time with the family.
However, it is common for pool owners to experience issues with their pool heaters. A malfunctioning heater fails to do its job correctly and can leave the pool water unpleasant for swimming. In this post, we will discuss a few common reasons that can cause the pool heater to stop working correctly:
Clogged or dirty pool filter
A clogged or dirty pool filter can create issues with a pool heater’s functioning. Filters blocked with dirt and debris prevent the pool heater from receiving adequate water essential to run correctly. If the heater is not heating the pool correctly or refuses to turn on, clogged filters can be the culprit.
Power supply issues
When the pool heater fails to turn on, it might not be receiving the power it needs. For example, a flipped breaker switch, damaged wires, or an unplugged water heater can prevent the water heater from working.
Incorrect thermostat setting
A short timer or incorrect thermostat setting can prevent the pool heater from heating the pool or can turn it off soon after turning it on. However, when homeowners don’t set the pool heater to a high enough temperature, it will fail to warm the pool water and give the impression that the heater is not working, even when there is no issue.
Disabled or faulty safety switch
A pool heater may also stop working and heating the pool if the safety switch is accidentally disabled or has turned faulty. The safety switches in the primary circuit of the pool heater have to be enabled for the water heater to work and generate heat.
Pool chemistry issues
Chemically balanced pool water is essential for the health and proper functioning of the entire pool system. High pH levels can cause scale build-up inside the heat exchanger that can restrict the water flow, and high acidity levels can deteriorate the tubes.
Improper ventilation
Poor ventilation can also prevent the pool water heater from igniting or working correctly. Debris and lime deposits can accumulate between the coils, stopping the heater from exhausting itself properly.
Loose or damaged wire
Loose or damaged wiring is often the reason behind a pool heater not turning on. Only professionals should work on electrical pool heaters, which can be hazardous when mishandled.
Pilot light issue
Another reason for a pool heater not igniting is the pilot light. A dirty or broken pilot tube can fail to ignite the heater.
Closed or incorrectly connected plumbing valves
If the plumbing valves are not open or connected correctly, the water will not flow to the heater, meaning it won’t warm the water.
If the pool heater is not working, contact a local pool service to diagnose and fix the issue. Trained technicians know how to correct pool heater problems so the homeowner can enjoy their pool regardless of the time of year.
