My pool heater is corroded because of chemical imbalance, Can I clean it myself?

Question

After my pool heater quit working, I have concluded that the heater has a lot of corrosion. Can I just open the top of it and clean up/sand/scrape off whatever is corroded? Basically Can it be fixed or do I have to buy a new heater? I hope I didn't ruin it because of my lack of chemical/pool knowledge...Please help. Price: If I can do it - FREE. If I can hire someone - $500 ??. If I replace heater - $1000 - $2500.

Answer 1

corrosion is inside the tubing of the heat exchanger IF it is corroded.it is not easy to repair especially on some older models. there is not enough info for me in your question to answer fully. if i were you i would check the better business bureau in my area for a reputable heater repair man.at least spend money on a service call to see it it is repairable. and according to the btu rating , will tell you how much a new heater will be.you have lots to learn !

Answer 2

yeah i had the same problem. all you have to do is just clean everything very thoroughly.

Answer 3

Pool heaters or the exchanger part wear from the inside out and if leaking you have only one option, replace the exchangers and best left to a pro.

You did not say how long the heater lived but pool chemistry has a huge effect on life of exchangers as does the presence of a salt system pool, bad news for exchangers too!

You're welcome!!

Answer 4

i own a pool company and my best advice is call apool company before you do anything else because your heat exchanger could be damaged if so you would need a pool tech to take care of this not just a hvac tech eleven years experince

Answer 5

I am assuming this is a gas heater?...corrosion in the heat exchanger? or in the cast iron heads?....or the heater burner tray or jacket?.....where is the corrosion? heres a page with a few heater tips and photos showing a replaced corroded burner tray assembly: http://www.swimming-pool-information.com...