Why Won't My Gas Pool Heater Turn or Stay On?

Gas Pool Heater

When your swimming pool gas heater malfunctions, troubleshooting the source of the problem can be more complex than working with filters or pumps. You have to determine where the problem is occurring within the heating system before you can determine how to repair it. You don’t always have to call a repair company first, but it is wise to consult your heater manufacturer’s service manual before you begin troubleshooting so that you are familiar with the location of each part and how it functions.

The first thing to check is your pool filter as a dirty swimming pool filter can result in low pressure, and if the pressure leaving the filter is low, this will cause the pressure switch to turn the heater off. Cleaning your filter should be performed on a regular basis. If you have a cartridge filter, turn the power off to your pump, open your filter canister, remove the filter, and using a proper hose nozzle, hose off the filter making sure to get in between the pleats. Inspect the bands around the filter and if any of them are broken, replace the filter cartridge.

For a sand filter or diatomaceous earth(DE) filter, turn your pump off, place your multi-port valve to the correct setting, turn pump on, and perform the backwash process. Once the sight glass shows clear water, your filter should be clean. For diatomaceous earth(DE) filters, you will then need to load more diatomaceous earth(DE) into the filter following the manufacturers process.

Also check your pump basket and make sure it is also clean of debris that could limit water flow to your system.

Now that your filter is clean, turn your pump on and once you have proper water flow thru the system, turn the gas pool heater on and see if the heater remains on and heating. If the heater still is not staying on, now it’s time to call Gas Tek Services to schedule an appointment to have your gas pool heater looked at. You can also use our online form to schedule an appointment.