What Is the Lifespan of a Pool Heater?

A familiar question pool owner ask is, "How long does a pool heater last?" Propane or natural gas pool heaters typically have an average lifespan of about 7–12 years. However, this can vary depending on factors such as water chemistry, the quality of the unit, regional climate, and regular maintenance. Some heaters may last longer, while others might need replacement sooner.

Essential Maintenance & Repairs

Troubleshoot First!

Before replacing any parts, ensure your pool heater can operate correctly. Inspect for the following:

• Is the shut-off valve open, and is the fuel still there?

• Can the electricity reach your heater, or has the breaker tripped?

• Is the heater appropriately sized for your pool and pump?

• Is the flow rate adequate?

• Is the heater turned on, and is the thermostat set higher than the current pool temperature?

Insufficient water flow due to a dirty filter, clogged skimmer, malfunctioning pump, or closed valves can prevent the heater from working. Inadequate water flow or air in the lines can harm the heating parts.

Making Heater Repairs

After troubleshooting, identify the defective parts. Many pool heater parts are easy to replace and can be done by most pool owners. However, it’s safer to hire a professional for issues involving gas valves or wiring. Note that DIY repairs might void warranties, but they can be more cost-effective for heaters out of warranty. Always turn off the pool pump, gas valves, and electricity before attempting repairs.

Common Replacement Parts Include:

Gaskets and O-Rings (Life Expectancy: 1–3 Years)

Gaskets and O-rings can dry out, warp, and crack over time, causing leaks. To extend their life, preferably during pre-winter maintenance, you can coat them with pool lubricant annually. These parts are inexpensive and frequently replaced, so keeping extras on hand is wise.

Switches and Other Electrical Parts (Life Expectancy: 3–7 Years)

Switches and other electrical components can fail due to regular usage or power surges. Use a multi-meter to test for incomplete circuits or a jumper wire to bypass and test switches. Common replacement parts include flow or pressure switches, high limit switches, thermostats, heater on/off switches, and safety fuses. Get the assistance of a professional for intricate electrical repairs.

Bypass Valves (Life Expectancy: 7–12 Years)

Damaged bypass valves reduce efficiency and can harm the heater. They manage water flow rates but can fail due to corrosion or material breakdown. Ensure both internal and external bypass valves are secure and replace if damaged.

Heat Exchanger (Life Expectancy: 5–10 Years)

The heat exchanger is costly to replace, so many opt for a new heater instead. Unbalanced pH and high water hardness are common causes of failure. Misplaced chlorinators or direct chlorine tablet application can also damage the heat exchanger. Ensure chlorinators are the last piece of pool equipment before water returns to the pool.

Burner Parts (Life Expectancy: 5–10 Years)

Burner parts can clog with dust, rust, bugs, and debris, often requiring cleaning. A faulty thermopile can prevent the pilot light from staying lit, so you must test and replace it if necessary. Check all burner parts for cracks and loose connections and repair or replace them as needed.

Manifold or Header (Life Expectancy: Varies)

Freeze damage is the primary reason behind the failure of manifolds or headers. Properly draining and winterising the heater can prevent this. Most heaters have front and rear headers with drain plugs to avoid cracking.

When to Replace Your Pool Heater

You can continue repairing your pool heater as long as parts are available. However, over time, efficiency may decline due to inadequate maintenance. When repair costs approach or exceed the cost of a new unit or efficiency drops significantly, it’s time to upgrade. New pool heaters are more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective. Contact a pool heater specialist near you to get the best deal on new gas pool heaters.