I Have A Hayward Electric Heater..What Size New Heater Do I Need?
by David
I have been heating with a Hayward Electric Heater and now need to replace it (heat exchange failed). What sized heater will I need and how much should I expect to pay for it? Thanks for the question David There are so many variables to finding the right pool heater. Here's a quick run-down: First is the pool size Total surface square feet. A larger pool will obviously mean a higher price. What degree temperature increase are you trying to get? This is what is referred to as Delta T. Do you want just a 5-degree increase or more, like 15 - 20 degrees? How much wind you have will contribute to the heating. More wind means faster heat loss and more water evaporation. We also need to calculate the heat loss per square foot in BTU's. This normally averages out to 10.5 BTU's. A basic calculation is this: Sizing = Surface area X Delta T (10.5) divided by the heater thermal efficiency. So in your case, a 24' X 42' pool has a surface area of approximatively 1008'. Let's say in MA it's a little on the cooler side, so you want a 20 degree rise and you can get an electric heater with an output efficiency of 83%. So it's this: 1008 X 10.5 X 20 (degree increase) = 211680 211680 divided by .83 = 255036 You would need a heater with a minimum 255,000 BTU's. I believe most of the time when you're looking at heaters in the upper range of 250,000 BTU's and above, they normally go either natural gas or propane. You always want to go a bit higher when choosing a pool heater. That way you can dial it down a bit instead of the heater always running, trying to catch up. You can look at the Hayward Universal H-Series 250,000 BTU's propane or the H-Series Low Nox 300,000 Natural Gas heater. You're probably looking at around $1500, give a take a few. Electric Heaters Through Amazon If your present heater has given you years of service, it might be wise to just purchase the same kind. I hope this answers your question and have a great and safe swimming season. Be sure to visit my site and sign up for my free monthly E-Zine newsletter. Robert |
