A pool heater may fire up and then shut off due to several reasons, including a malfunctioning thermostat, blocked airflow, or a faulty pressure switch. Additionally, low water flow caused by a dirty filter or pump issues can trigger safety features that shut the heater down to prevent damage. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and resolve these issues. If the problem persists, consulting a professional technician is recommended.
If the Pilot light is burning, you don't want to try to jump terminals to get the heater to start heating. Most heaters have some sort of water flow sensor so it only fires the heater if water is moving fast enough through it to transfer heat from metal parts to pool water. If you jump to bypass the flow sensor you are risking seriously damaging the heater if it's trying to heat and the filter pump shuts off while you aren't standing nearby to turn off the heater as soon as, if not before the filter pump stops running. I got hired to remove two LP fired pool heaters because the owner thought he could jump or bypass the flow sensor, the filter pump stopped while he wasn't there to shut off the heater, and by the time he returned, the heater flame was still burning strong and there were holes melted into the heat exchanger so next time he tried using filter system, the spraying water kept putting out the flame and flooding the fire chamber of his pool heater.
Pull the fuse.
A thermocouple in a gas heater is a safety device that detects if the pilot light is on. If the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple shuts off the gas supply to prevent a dangerous gas leak.
In order to reduce electricity consumption (and potentially reduce electricity expenses) it is advisable to turn off pool-heaters until the time at which the pool is to be used. So as to have a pool at a suitable swimming temperature, it would be advisable to turn on the heater a number of hours before you intend to swim in the pool. A more amount of time your pool takes to heat thoroughly may be available in documentation you have regarding your pool.
Yes, all electric heaters are required to have an emergency circuit breaker which shuts the unit down in the event of overheating.
If it shuts off then comes back on later it's almost certainly the switch... but. Never replace anything until you've checked it. Put a test light/meter on the heater motor then run it until the motor shuts off, then look at the meter. If the voltage is zero, or practically zero, it's the switch. If the voltage is up near normal (12.5 - 14) it's probably the motor.
When it achieves the maximum temperature, it shuts off. Then when there is demand for the water, or it is at its low setting, the boiler fires up again until it reaches the maximum temperature set.
form_title=Swimming Pool Heater Repair form_header=11623 Please specify the type of pool you have.*= () In ground () Spa/hot tub () Above ground Which kind of heater are you using?*= () Natural gas () Propane () Oil () Electric immersion () Heat pump () Solar () Solar blanket () Unsure Please indicate why you need service/repair? (Check all that apply)*= [] Heater won't turn on [] Pilot light won't stay lit [] Heater leaking [] Heater cycles on and off [] Heater won't shut off [] Water not heating to desired temperature [] Need regular maintenance [] Other
These heaters contain insulation that retains heat (as opposed to the newer style that reflects it back). As a result, they heat up during operation and take a long time to cool down. After using the heater, shut the heater off and let the pump run for at least 15 minutes to allow time for the heater to cool off before shutting off the pump.
The pool heater may be cycling off and on before reaching the set temperature due to a possible issue with the thermostat, water flow rate, or a dirty filter restricting water flow. It could also be caused by a malfunction in the heater's pressure switch or temperature sensor. Consider having a professional inspect and service the heater to diagnose and address the issue.
This or some similar question would best be directed toward your pool heater's manufacturer. Do a manufacturer's search and ask your question there for a very specific answer.
The water heater high limit switch is a safety feature that shuts off the heating element if the water temperature gets too high. This helps prevent the water heater from overheating and potentially causing damage or safety hazards.