best pool heater there has to be one

[MarkC]

The most reliable pool heaters in my opinion are heat pumps. I just cranked up my 5 year old heat pump this week and off it went providing me with nice warm water. I have never had to do a thing to this unit since I got it. I don't know a thing about gas heaters though so maybe someone else can comment on this.

[halds]

Could it be a defective pressure switch? they tend to go awry due to corrosion from the pool water. It is relatively easy and inexpensive piece to replace. My pool guy gave me a good suggestion. Fill the end that connects to the water line with a little mineral oil. That keeps water from reaching the mechanical diaphram that senses the pressure.

We just bought a new gas heater, but our old one was alomst 30 years old. Bought a Hayward draft induced heater. It was easy to connect and started right up and so far works wonderfully. I think the biggest problem with heaters is exposure of the electronics to the elements. I am thinking of making a ventilated enclosure for it when we no longer need it for the season and winter.

The problem with heat pumps in colder climates is that they are not very efficient if the air temp is below 60 degrees, e.g. spring when one needs the heater the most.


Hal

[MarkC]

That is true about the heat pumps. I usually wait for a warm spell to turn mine on for the season.

[brittmer]

I have the Hayward H350 gas heater. Not sure if it is the best heater out there, but I have had it for about 3 years and works good for me.

[criis]

thanks all..

my service company is recommending the starite, someone else recommended the levwhatever from tennasee... any thoughts?

[mwsmith2]

I've decided on the sta-rite, and have had folks here say they work great. It's one of the most efficient heaters on the market today.

Michael