Self-servicing Hayward heater... how?

[rtilghman]

We're located in Austin, TX. Put the pool in about 4 years ago. Equipment includes an H400FDN Hayward heater, which we largely use to heat the spa year round (less heating in the summer, and pool rarely gets so cold you can't swim). I maintain the whole system largely myself with warranty and serious support if/as needed.

An issue came up today with the heater which I resolved, but it made me realize that I have no idea 1) what I can/should do to maintain the heater season to season and 2) how to do it.

Is there a basic list of maintenance tasks a good DIY guy can knock out? Like, I know there's a filter, should I and can I be popping the cover and cleaning it out? How often can you or should you replace it? Are there other tasks that can lengthen the lifespan and help keep it running in top shape?

Appreciate any insights or guidance.

Thanks!
Rick

 

[JoyfulNoise]

Not much more than visual inspection to keep it clean and removing the covers to look for mice & rodents. Mice and rodents love getting into the heaters to rip up the insulation fur bedding or chew on the wiring. If you see any signs of an animal around (torn up insulation or droppings), you’ll need to look at the various penetrations in the cover to see if they can be covered with mesh screening. There are lots online for various heater makes & models.

There’s not much you can service. All the various components like thermistors, air flow sensors, pressure switches, etc., either work or fail. Your best defense is to keep the unit clean and, most importantly, keep your pool water balanced and maintains at correct levels to reduce the possibility of scaling in the heat exchanger.

 

[HeyEng]

This is timely as I am looking to fire mine up for the first time since moving in. Not sure how long since it's been run, but there are no fault codes when there is water flowing...so I think I will pull whatever panels I can (at least that are easy to pull) and look for any anomalies and then fire it up! What could go wrong?!?