How Do I Know If My Pool Heater Is Working?

Having an overheating pool heater can be frustrating and dangerous. Fortunately, there are many simple ways to troubleshoot your pool heater to get it running again. Some of these issues can be solved by yourself, while others require professional expertise. Before getting any work done on your pool heater, it’s important to know what to look for.

Check your heater’s thermostat:

First, check your heater’s thermostat. The heater thermostat is meant to measure the pool’s temperature accurately. If the thermostat is malfunctioning, you may have trouble keeping the temperature where you want it. Your pool heater may take a few hours to reach the desired temperature.

Check the pool’s filter:

Second, check the pool’s filter. A dirty filter will restrict the amount of water your heater can heat. It can also prevent the proper pressure from getting to the heater. A dirty filter can also block the intake for the heater pump. It would help if you also ensured that the pump was functioning properly. You can also check the heater’s ventilation to ensure it’s not clogged with debris. Debris in the pool can also interfere with the flow of water and cause the heater to malfunction.

Look for strange noises:

Third, look for strange noises. You may notice a grinding noise when the heater is operating. This may be due to a blockage in the heater’s vents or a malfunctioning thermal regulator.

Check your pool’s chemical levels:

Finally, be sure to check your pool’s chemical levels. If you’re unsure how much to add to your pool’s water, check your manufacturer’s manual for recommended levels. You should also test the water to ensure it’s not rusting the heater. If it’s corrupted, it may need to be replaced. Keep track of your chemicals and check them regularly to prevent further damage.

Check your pressure switch:

Check your pressure switch. This is a device that keeps your pump running if the temperature of the pool’s water doesn’t reach the set point. The pump may keep running if the switch is faulty, but the water won’t heat. If the switch is working, you should see a good amount of pressure coming out of it. If the switch is stuck in a closed position, you should use needle nose pliers to pry it.