What Causes a Pool Heater to Make Noise?
Pool heaters are a great way to use your pool all year round. With relaxation, entertainment and exercise being the main use, disruptive and unusual sound coming from your heater is the last thing you want. If your pool heater starts to make some strange noises you have not heard before, it might be for one of the following reasons:
Dirty System
The most common reason for a noisy pool heater is a system that hasn’t been cleaned in a while. Over time your heater sees all different seasons with things like muddy rainwater, leaves from trees, dust and debris blowing around and through the system, it's very likely to cause blockages. When water flows through this cluttered pathway, it creates turbulence, resulting in noisy operation and a not-so-relaxing pool zone. The most common blockages we find are in the pool filters, burners and pump baskets. The best and most effective way to resolve a blockage issue is to have a professional assess the unit. Luckily, we at Unitests have licensed gas plumbers available to do gas pool heating servicing, repairs & installations in Melbourne, just call us on 1300 846 688 or send us an enquiry online.
Faulty Pressure Switch
A pressure switch monitors water flow and ensures the correct amount of incoming water is present and adequate for the heater to operate. It is a safety feature of the unit and if faulty, can restrict the water flow into the system and cause a whistling noise to come from the heater as it is struggling to function. To restore your heater to its usual quiet operation, it is best to have this pressure switch replaced. When dealing with technical issues such as this one, it's always best to call a professional.
Insufficient Gas Supply
Another common culprit behind noisy pool heaters is a gas pressure problem. When the gas pressure is too high or too low, it can lead to irregular combustion, causing banging or popping sounds. Gas pressure issues can arise due to various reasons, such as a malfunctioning regulator or a problem with the gas supply line. The first step is to check the gas pressure. You can do this using a manometer and if the reading is on the low side, it could mean the ventilation for the heater isn't working properly or there is insufficient air getting to the heater. If you find your pool heater may have this issue it is highly recommended to have a pool heater service done by a licensed gas plumber as they are legally the only person allowed to look at gas units, and Unitests provides only the best.
We know that this job is not always a priority on the household jobs list, but like a car your pool heater needs to be serviced as regularly as every 1-2 years. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and professional assistance are the keys to ensuring your pool heater operates quietly, safely and efficiently, ignoring any problems can cause further damage and more expensive repair costs.