Should I buy a used Rapyak Pool Heater?

[4rings6stars]

Hi again.

In my never ending quest to heat my pool on a budget, I have found somebody selling this Raypak heater locally. Their description is "Was working fine when removed but has been stored in the garage for several years". Asking price is "best offer".

I have a few questions.

1. I believe this was set up for propane and I will be using natural gas. I found a conversion kit online that I think will work for about $100. Any issues or concerns with switching an older unit from propane to natural gas?
2. Are you able to identify the size / model / age based on this picture?
3. Without being to set it up and actually test it, anything I should look out for when I inspect it?
4. Assuming it's in decent, working condition, what do you think is a reasonable price?
5. I will need to run a gas line from my house to the pool. If I buy this (or a similar) used gas heater, I'm considering using propane for this summer and then deciding for next season if I want to stick with a gas burner or get a heat pump. Will this thing power through a standard grill-sized propane tank in a matter of minutes?

 

[wjr75]

I wouldn't go there. With the house we bought I ended up replacing the 10 year old Raypak after trying to repair various things and should have saved the money for the new one I installed. That model looks old also.

 

[ps0303]

That's too old of a unit plus it isn't hooked up for you to test.

Looks like a 266 unit.

 

[kevreh]

Check the new price, then look at the parts pricing. Whats the most expensive part if need to replace. Let that drive your offer. Either way I couldnt see offering more than a couple hundred since you dont know how many years it was used.