Heater leaking water? is it time to buy a new one or replace some parts (Pic/Video)

[marcop300]

History you should know; pool heater is almost 12 years old (Hayward 400K BTU NAT GAS). I have a 23K gal+ Salt pool (keep around 3200 PPM). I live in Texas. Last month, I was having a pool heater startup issue. So I google online, read A LOT and even broke down and bought a FieldPiece manometer. I learned a lot about GAS (and heater startup sequence) . And my issue was my gas meter was not giving me 7” wc input. So they came out and upgraded my gas meter / replaced the gas regulator now. It’s all working fine now. :O)
Now a month goes by (I’ve only used the heater a few times for the hot tube) and now I have water coming out of the heater (and no it’s nothing I did with the gas. Red face) I just think it is just bad timing.

So the pic and the video show my issue (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/zrnr9ajhytdv4l5/AAAFfj_pAjiLIkD8TRC3j6UCa ).

Looks to me to be the Heater element has a leak. I want to ask you all, should I get a new Element? Or just get a whole new heater? (and no. i'm not full of money) Or do you think, it’s the header front. Again, that is why i'm asking you all for an idea on what to do.

Thanks, and I can’t wait to hear what you pros think. (but, I'm guessing Heater exchange with Header and all sensors) If so, can you send me a good link to buy from (do you trust Amazon sellers) ? thanks.

[CarlD]

I don't know anything about gas heaters, but I can tell you: That does NOT look good! I'd GUESS it's time for a heater replacement--and I'd research into those that are more resistant to salt, and designed specifically to work with SWCGs.

[marcop300]

Thanks for the reply Carl. yeah, not looking good. and I dont want to drop a TON of money. I'm lucky i can do lts of work myself. I'm going to see what others say about this post. maybe someone that works on hayward alot. Thanks again, for adding to my post.

[marcop300]

I've updated the LINK with more pics. To me it looks like it has been leaking for a lot time. there is signs of rust on panels and on bottom of heater.