We’ve been in the pool heating industry for quite some time. And during that time, we’ve heard a full range of bad advice about pool heaters. From baseless claims and recommendations, to plain inaccurate information and bloated promises. There’s truly no shortage of bad information no matter which industry you’re in. But doesn’t mean you have to accept it.
That’s why we’re here to share some of the worst advice about pool heaters we’ve ever heard. So hopefully you can more easily sort fact from fiction. And save yourself from a few headaches in the process.
So let’s get right into it:
The Worst Advice About Pool Heaters We’ve Ever Heard
Generic pool heater parts work fine for replacement
There are a number of reasons why this couldn’t be further from the truth. But let’s start with the basics.
First off, each and every pool heater on the market is made under precisely calculated specifications. Meaning that every part within a unit is designed to work optimally with the others. But businesses trying to hastily sell you replacement parts at a profit won’t mention this.
Moreover, aside from distinct specifications, there’s also the consequences tied to using the wrong parts. For instance, a pool heater may be designed to work with a fan blade that has a specific weight, width, and blade tilt. Using a replacement that doesn’t match the exact specifications of the original can affect other parts of the unit. Especially the fan motor. Causing it to work inefficiently, and often harder than needed. Resulting in added wear and tear, and an overall decrease in pool heater’s lifespan. Hence why it’s best to purchase OEM pool heater parts from a trusted supplier.
High-end pool heaters don’t need to be serviced
Never buy into the overreaching marketing tactics of big brands. No matter how “fancy” or advanced a pool heater is, it will always need to be serviced.
Why?
Because there isn’t a single pool heater on the market immune to the wear and tear of regular use. Especially that new cutting-edge heater you’ve been hearing all about.
Plus, scheduling an annual pool heater service call is in your best interest. It ensures that the heater stays in healthy, working order. And it’ll often help you preemptively fix any minor issues before they grow into bigger problems. Which means dealing with fewer surprise repairs, and saving more money in the long run.
I heat my pool for free with solar. I don’t need a pool heater
Although the operation cost of a solar pool heater system is relatively low, it doesn’t overshadow the natural flaws that come with such a system.
For starters, all solar systems need direct sunlight to work effectively. Not cloudy with spots of sunlight. But direct sunlight. So if you see anything other than clear skies and sunshine, then expect a lack or complete absence of heat. And of course, don’t expect to nightly swims either. For obvious reasons.
But wait, is there is a solution? One that’ll save you money and easily double the length of your swim season?
Yes. there is. And it works perfectly with your preexisting solar system.
And that solution is a pool heat pump. A pool heater that harvests natural heat to warm up your pool water at a fraction of the cost of other pool heating solutions.
So incorporating a pool heat pump into your setup means more time to swim throughout the year. Whether it’s at night or during a cloudy summer afternoon. And who doesn’t want to spend more time soaks in the rays in their backyard oasis?
Go with gas heaters because they heat fastest
Well, it is true. They do heat the fastest. By far.
But consider this:
If you have a car, then you already know that keeping it fueled is costly. And depending on how much you drive, your monthly costs may be even higher than most. And gas is already expensive as it is.
The same holds true for gas pool heaters. Especially since they use natural gas or propane to produce heat. Which is by no means cheap. And if you have anything other than a small backyard spa or hot tub, you can imagine how much gas you’ll need in the course of a month alone. And there’s sometimes added cost that comes with installing a gas pool heater. Hence why advising someone to make a decision based on heating speed isn’t the best advice about pool heaters to give.
If a pool heater doesn’t turn on, it needs to be replaced
Oh, the classic upselling routine of the eager pool heater salesman.
Sure, in some cases, your pool heater may be so damaged and worn that repair would be a fruitless and far-reaching effort. But those situations are rare. And still, in some cases, repair is often a better alternative than replacement.
Which leads to our main point. Pool heaters can stop turning on for a number of reasons. From a poor connection or inadequate power supply to a worn sensor or compressor. But in nearly every case, troubleshooting the unit and making the proper repair is the best option. From both a financial and economical standpoint.
We hope this helped clear up any bad advice about pool heaters you’ve heard. It’s easy to get misinformed. But taking the time to do your research, and sort fact from fiction is crucial as a pool owner. Especially if you’re trying to figure out how to choose the best pool heater for you home.
If you’re a new pool owner, be sure to check out our Pool Owner Guide. It covers everything you need to know to easily maintain a clean and healthy swimming pool.
