The only heater I've recently had experience with is the Hayward Universal -- and I got 6 - 9 years use out of them, but on commercial pools in somewhat hard service. I've also seen some heaters in sad shape, but they weren't 'mine', and I didn't examine them closely
So, with those limitations in mind:
+ Stay away -- far away -- from the Sta-Rite heaters. From what I've seen, they are awful.
+ Many heaters are NOT salt compatible, though the company usually makes a salt compatible model for extra $$$'s.
+ The Hayward Universal has a cupro-nickel heat exchanger that IS salt compatible.
+ The Hayward Universal also a spa / pool switch allowing different settings. I think some controllers can switch electronically, but I never used it, so I didn't investigate.
+ The Hayward requires 120V to operate at all -- but I think most do, now -- and replacement parts are electronic and expensive.
+ All pool heaters will last longer if kept off the ground, away from chemical fumes, with all chemical feeders (incl salt) DOWNSTREAM of the heater. (My heaters were in a damp pump room with chemicals stored nearby -- not ideal.)
Anyhow, you can check it out here: 400K Hayward Universal Propane . The reviews look pretty favorable. NOTE: I have seen bad heater reviews before, but when I read them, it was clear that EITHER it was a self-install by a clueless DIY-er OR the purchaser had unrealistic expectations.
Good luck!
Bookmarks