Gas heater design

[rjb1211]

I know that many on here like the Raypak atmospheric heater for the simple design and relatively less expensive repairs. That used to be the way they were all made.

Somewhere along the line the blower style became more prominent. Even Raypak has now gone that route with the Avia.

My question is why? If they heat the water with about the same efficiency what is the reason the industry has moved in that direction?

 

[PoolGate]

I know that many on here like the Raypak atmospheric heater for the simple design and relatively less expensive repairs. That used to be the way they were all made.

Somewhere along the line the blower style became more prominent. Even Raypak has now gone that route with the Aria.

My question is why? If they heat the water with about the same efficiency what is the reason the industry has moved in that direction?

I am not really sure but I do know my heater is about a 1/4 the size of my neighbor's ancient Raypac and puts out more heat.

 

[swamprat69]

Efficiency!! Without some form of venting assistance a heater is limited to a lower efficiency. You won't find a natural draft residential furnace these days because of the mandated minimum efficiency.

 

[rjb1211]

Efficiency!! Without some form of venting assistance a heater is limited to a lower efficiency. You won't find a natural draft residential furnace these days because of the mandated minimum efficiency.

Using Raypak as an example since they make both styles the Avia has an efficiency rating of 84% while the RP2100 is rated at 83%. Doesn't seem like a big advantage for a more complicated design to me.