How do I change a Pool Heater from natural gas to propane?

Question

We have a Minimax 150 pool heater that currently runs off of natural gas. We would like to convert it to use propane. Originally we believed that we would only need to replace the orifices. Recently, however, we contacted a Minimax part dealer who stated that we would need a new burner, valve and orifices to the tune of 400 dollars. Is this correct and if not what do we need to do to convert our heater to use propane?

Answer 1

This sounds reasonable you would need to change burner,orifices and regulator but you must be getting a discount on Gas because propane is usually more expensive because of the way it is transported.

Answer 2

The dealer is likely correct. They should know what it takes to convert their appliance. Some appliances require no parts whatsover, others are not convertible at all and you need to buy a completely new heater rated for the particular fuel you want to use it on.

Pool heaters are a lot different than most other gas fired appliances we have around our households. Fireplaces, water heaters and cooking ranges are all relatively small burners of 45,000 btu or so. That pool heater is likely 150,000 btu's. That's double the size of the average furnace heating an entire house!

Propane & natural gas have different btu values and operate at different pressures. Because of that, the internal workings of the gas valve, orifices and even burners have different size openings in them to let through more or less fuel...

I feel for you, but I can't say I'm surprised by the $400 cost.  Sorry!    Good Luck!

Answer 3

I have coverted heaters FROM propane TO natural gas and had to change the orifaces and valve....the mini max has unusual burners so the dealer is probably right....heres a page with heater troubleshooting tips: http://www.swimming-pool-information.com...

Answer 4

Check with your propane dealer.

Answer 5

That sounds about right for what you listed. It used to be the propane dealer would do the conversion free. Nothing is cheap anymore.

Answer 6

hi, call the butane gas company. call the pool company. just call somebody else for a different opinion. paulie