Shut off process for gas heater - can I let the pump control it?

yeamonn

Member
Jul 17, 2024
7
PNW
Pool Size
4500
Surface
Vinyl
SWG Type
Intex Krystal Clear
I have installed the Raypak 106a for a 5000 gallon above ground and loving it. I had a question about usage with the pool pump and wondering about shut off procedure.

Is it OK to allow the heater to turn off triggered by the pump stopping it's run time? Or should I install a timer or manually turn it off prior to the pump shutting off? It's a pain to turn it off manually but I don't want to risk damaging it if having the pump control is via the pressure valve is dangerous or can damage the heater.
 
A heater has a pressure switch, not a flow switch. The plumbing can have pressure and the heater can turn on with the pump off depending on the pressure switch setting.

I would not rely on the pressure switch to turn the heater on and off.

You should turn off the heater 5-10 minutes before the pump to allow the residual heat to dissipate. You can also use a timer.
 
Read Heater Flow Switch - Further Reading

The water level of you AGP is probably above the level of the heater. That will fool the pressure switch.

You should install a flow switch in series with the pressure switch.
Thanks I'll read into the Raypak documentation as well. The water line is about 2.5ft higher than the heaters intake.
 
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