Your swimming pool is the centerpiece of your South Florida home, and keeping your pool heater running lets you maximize its use all year. While swimming season typically stretches from April through October, a heater allows you to enjoy warm, comfortable water even during the cooler months.
Whether you use a pool heat pump, electric heater, or gas-powered system, you’ve invested substantially to keep the chill off the water and extend your swim time, no matter the temperature.
But what happens when your pool heater is on the fritz and your swim sessions come to an abrupt halt? Is it worth it to fix it? Probably—but that depends on a few key factors. In this post, we’ll walk you through deciding between repairing or replacing your pool heater so that you can make the best call for your comfort and budget.
Common Types of Pool Heaters (And How Long They Last)
Pool heaters with installation are a significant investment, with the average cost around $3500. Depending on the size of your pool, heaters can range in price from $1,500 to close to $9,000. The lifespan of pool heaters varies from 5 years to 20 years, but how long yours lasts depends on the type of heater and how well it has been maintained.
- Electric Heat Pumps (energy-efficient, long-lasting)
- Propane Gas Heaters (fast heating, higher operating cost)
- Electric Resistance Heaters (less common, costlier to run)
Signs Your Pool Heater Needs Attention
There are some telltale signs that your pool heater needs to be inspected by a pro. They will determine if your equipment can be fixed, and you can decide whether it should be repaired or replaced.
Here are some common pool heater issues that require expert care:
- Shutting off or not turning on
- Reduced water flow
- Inconsistent heating
- Rusty parts
- Leaks
- Weird noises
When Is It Worth Repairing a Pool Heater?
Repairing your heater is usually beneficial if the equipment is newer, the problem is minor, and the system has been routinely maintained.
Here are several scenarios where fixing your heater makes good sense:
1. Your Pool Heater is Relatively New
If your pool heater is less than 10 years old, repairing it is the best choice. Newer equipment still has plenty of service life left, and issues are typically minor.
2. Repairs are Affordable
Repair costs are an essential checkpoint that needs to make sense before you sign off on repairs.
Here is a good rule of thumb for pool owners:
If the repair bill is less than half of what it would cost to buy a brand-new heater, it usually makes more sense to go ahead and fix it. Things like a faulty thermostat, a dirty burner, or a wonky pilot light are common and can usually be taken care of quickly without breaking the bank.
3. It’s a Minor Issue
Some common problems—like clogged filters, faulty igniters, bad thermostats, or loose connections—are usually minor repairs. These are typically isolated issues that a technician can fix to get your heater… well, heating again.
If professional pool heater repair services can restore your heater’s functionality and save you money, it’s worth repairing it instead of replacing it. But how do you know when replacing it makes more financial sense?
When to Replace Your Pool Heater
Repairs can fix several pool heater problems for less than a new one. But there are times when replacing your old heater is the smart choice. If fixing it is possible, your technician will likely provide a cost comparison for a new installation versus repairing the existing one.
Here are eight clear signs it’s time to invest in a new pool heating system:
- Frequent breakdowns and repairs
- Older than 10 years
- Parts are discontinued or difficult to find
- Increased energy bills
- Reduced heating efficiency
- Repair costs exceed 50% of the unit’s value
- Rust or corrosion is preventing proper function
- Upgrade to the latest technology and energy efficiency
Pool Heater Problems: Is It Worth Fixing or Time to Replace?
The most important thing here is keeping your pool warm all winter without missing out on swim time! Your HVAC technician will help you weigh the key factors—like your heater’s age, repair costs, and overall condition—so you can decide if the repair is worth the expense. Minor issues are often quick fixes that cost far less than a new unit, making repairs a smart move when the numbers add up.
Another wise investment is pool heater maintenance. Regular service keeps your pool heater in tip-top shape and lets your tech catch minor issues early, like a bad thermostat, loose connections, or hidden leaks. Proper maintenance also helps extend your heater’s lifespan, reducing frequent repairs and surprise breakdowns.
If your pool heater isn’t warming like it used to, is making strange noises, or you’ve spotted a leak, don’t wait. An experienced technician’s service call can help you determine if a simple repair will do the trick or if it’s time for an upgrade. Don’t let the fear of a pricey replacement keep you from taking action—it might only take a few hundred dollars to get your pool toasty again instead of several thousand.
