We have a 10 year old, natural gas pool heater that has leaks that I cannot seem to fix. Rather than go to extraordinary efforts to repair it, I'm thinking of just replacing it. The model is a H350 millivolt heater. It is exposed to the elements. Is 10 years a reasonable life expectancy for this type of heater?
What's the life expectancy of a Hayward pool heater?
- Thread starter coilerman
- Start date
7-10 years is the average life expectancy of a pool heater. Some people get more, some get less.
I would suggest you replace the unit with a Raypak. Much better unit then the Hayward's.
I would suggest you replace the unit with a Raypak. Much better unit then the Hayward's.
Thanks for the recommendation. The H350 is discontinued by Hayward and I'm not crazy about the design of the new H-series units. I will definitely look at Raypack.
One newbie question though - our unit is switched from pool to spa mode using a relay that's triggered by an X-10 automation module. I'm assuming this means I have to get a digital electronic ignition model. Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Also, while looking at documentation for new heaters, it mentions that a check valve should be in place between the heater and the chlorine generator. We definitely don't have one in our system. Should that be corrected?
One newbie question though - our unit is switched from pool to spa mode using a relay that's triggered by an X-10 automation module. I'm assuming this means I have to get a digital electronic ignition model. Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Also, while looking at documentation for new heaters, it mentions that a check valve should be in place between the heater and the chlorine generator. We definitely don't have one in our system. Should that be corrected?
Yes the heater will work with the X-10. You definitely want the electronic spark unit. Why waste fuel with a pilot burning all the time.
Absolutely w electronic spark based ignition systems- a pilot light to water is light leaving your faucet running all the time. And yes, you should 1000% have a Jandy Check valve btw your heater and your sanitation system. Heat exchangers are made of copper and CL is very corrosive to copper, esp when it's not diluted yet from your main pool water.
Lastly, anything you can get these days in the pool industry that has lasted 9-10 yrs, consider yourself really fortunate...