How to Start Jandy Pool Heater: Step-by-Step Guide - Pool Tips USA (2024)

Are you excited to take a dive in your pool but find it too cold? Do you have a Jandy pool heater but don’t know how to start it? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to start your Jandy pool heater in no time, ensuring that your pool is ready to use whenever you want.

The process of starting a Jandy pool heater might seem complicated, but it’s relatively easy once you know what to do. The first thing you need to do is locate the power source and turn on the gas or propane supply. Then, you can activate the heater control panel and set the desired temperature. Before turning on the heater, you need to prime the pump, ignite the pilot light and monitor the heater and pool temperature.

Keep reading to discover a detailed guide on how to start your Jandy pool heater, even if you’ve never done it before. Follow our simple step-by-step instructions, and you’ll be enjoying your warm pool in no time.

Locate the Power Source

Before starting your Jandy pool heater, you need to locate the power source. The power source is usually found in the electrical panel, which is commonly located near the pump and filter. The panel will have a dedicated breaker that is labeled specifically for the pool heater. Look for the breaker that has the same amps as your heater and turn it on. If you have trouble locating the breaker, consult the owner’s manual or call a professional.

Make sure to turn off the power before performing any maintenance on the heater. It’s also important to keep the area around the heater clear of debris, such as leaves or sticks, to prevent damage or fire.

Check that the power switch on the heater is turned off, located on the front panel of the heater. This switch is also known as the disconnect switch and should be turned off before turning off the breaker. Make sure that the switch is in the “off” position before proceeding.

Inspect the wiring to make sure there are no signs of wear or damage. Damaged wiring can lead to electrical problems, so if you see any signs of wear, call a professional. It’s also important to make sure that the wiring is properly grounded to avoid any electrical shocks.

Ensure that the wiring connections are tight and secure. Loose connections can cause electrical arcing, which can damage the wiring and cause a fire. If you notice any loose connections, tighten them using a screwdriver, but be careful not to overtighten them.

Check the Circuit Breaker

1. Locate the circuit breaker panel: It is usually near the electric meter, but may also be in a utility room or basem*nt.

2. Identify the pool heater breaker: Look for the switch labeled with the pool heater’s name or model number.

3. Check if the breaker is tripped: If the switch is not aligned with the other breakers or in the “off” position, it may have tripped. Turn it off, then on again to reset it.

4. Inspect the wiring: Make sure the wiring leading to the breaker and the pool heater is in good condition, with no signs of damage or wear.

If the circuit breaker keeps tripping, it may indicate a more serious problem with the pool heater or electrical system. In that case, consult a licensed electrician or pool professional for assistance.

Find the Power Switch

Once you have located the power source and ensured that the circuit breaker is on, you can move on to finding the power switch. The power switch will typically be located near the heater, but it may be in a different location depending on the model of your Jandy pool heater.

Look for a switch with a red or black cover, or a switch with a label that reads “pool heater”. If you are unsure about which switch to use, consult the owner’s manual or contact a professional for assistance.

Make sure the power switch is in the “off” position before proceeding to the next step. This will prevent any accidents or damage to the heater during the startup process.

Turn On Gas or Propane Supply

Before starting your Jandy pool heater, you need to turn on the gas or propane supply. Locate the valve on the fuel line and make sure it’s in the open position.

If you’re using propane, check the tank’s level and make sure you have enough fuel to run the heater. A low tank can cause issues with the heater’s performance.

Make sure there are no leaks in the gas or propane supply lines before turning on the valve. You can do this by using a gas leak detector or applying soapy water to the connections and looking for bubbles.

Once you’re sure that everything is safe, turn on the gas or propane valve to supply fuel to the Jandy pool heater.

Check Gas or Propane Supply

Before turning on the gas or propane supply, make sure that the fuel source is connected and there are no leaks in the system. Check the gas valve to ensure it’s in the “on” position. For propane, make sure that the tank has enough gas and the valve is open.

Tip: Use a gas leak detector to check for any gas leaks. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the gas supply and call a professional immediately.

Once you’ve verified that the fuel source is safe to use, turn on the gas or propane supply. If using propane, you may need to press and hold the pilot button for a few seconds to allow gas to flow into the system.

Note: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific heater model when checking and turning on the gas or propane supply.

Turn On Gas or Propane Valve

Before turning on the gas or propane valve, make sure to follow all local regulations and safety guidelines. Failure to do so may result in injury, property damage, or fire. Here are the steps to turn on the valve:

1. Locate the valve: The valve should be located near the heater, and it may be labeled for easy identification.
2. Turn the valve to the “on” position: To turn on the gas or propane supply, rotate the valve handle so that it is perpendicular to the gas or propane line. If the valve has a lever, move it to the “on” position.
3. Wait a few minutes: Give the gas or propane time to flow through the line and clear any air that may have accumulated. This step is crucial to prevent ignition issues.

Once you’ve turned on the gas or propane valve, you’re ready to activate the heater control panel.

Activate the Heater Control Panel

Step 1: Turn the power switch to “On” position, the control panel will light up.

Step 2: Press the “Mode” button to select the desired temperature setting. You can choose “Pool” or “Spa” mode.

Step 3: Press the “On” button to activate the heater. The “Heater On” indicator light will illuminate.

Step 4: Wait for a few minutes for the heater to start up and warm up the water. Check the temperature display on the control panel to ensure that it is heating up to the desired temperature.

If you follow these steps, you should be able to successfully start your Jandy pool heater. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions when operating your pool equipment. Proper maintenance and care can help ensure that your pool heater operates efficiently and lasts for years to come.

Press the Power Button

After you have completed all the previous steps, it’s time to activate the Jandy pool heater. The first thing to do is to press the power button on the control panel. The power button is usually located on the left-hand side of the control panel, and it should be easily visible.

Once you have pressed the power button, you should hear a beep or see a light turn on, indicating that the heater is now on. If you do not hear a beep or see a light turn on, check that you have completed all the previous steps correctly, and make sure that the pool heater is getting power.

Now that the Jandy pool heater is on, you can set the desired temperature for your pool and enjoy a warm and relaxing swim. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using your pool heater to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Select the Heater Mode

After turning on the power button, the next step is to select the heater mode. This can be done by accessing the control panel on the heater. Depending on the type of heater, the options may include modes such as fan, low heat, medium heat, and high heat.

It’s important to consider the room size and desired temperature when selecting the mode. For example, if the room is small and just needs a little warmth, the fan mode may be sufficient. On the other hand, if the room is large and very cold, high heat mode may be necessary.

Some heaters may also have additional features, such as a timer or thermostat. These features can be used to further customize the heating experience and ensure optimal comfort.

Once the mode has been selected, the heater will begin to warm up the room. It’s important to keep an eye on the temperature and adjust the mode as needed to maintain a comfortable environment.

Adjust the Thermostat

After selecting the heater mode, it’s time to adjust the thermostat to the desired temperature. The thermostat controls the temperature by communicating with the heating system.

To adjust the thermostat, locate the temperature control panel on the heater control panel. Some models have a digital thermostat that requires you to press the up or down arrow buttons to adjust the temperature. Others may have a dial that you need to turn clockwise or counterclockwise.

• Press the up arrow or turn the dial clockwise to increase the temperature.
• Press the down arrow or turn the dial counterclockwise to decrease the temperature.
• Set the temperature to a comfortable level that suits your needs.
• Wait for a few minutes for the heater to adjust to the new temperature setting.

It’s important to note that setting the temperature too high can lead to wasted energy and higher bills. On the other hand, setting the temperature too low can make the room uncomfortable and cause the heating system to work harder, leading to increased wear and tear.

Set the Desired Temperature

Step 1: Check the current temperature in the room where the heater is located. You can do this by using a thermometer or by checking the thermostat display.

Step 2: Determine the temperature you want the room to be. This will depend on your personal preferences, but a comfortable temperature range is typically between 68°F and 72°F (20°C to 22°C).

Step 3: Press the up or down arrow on the thermostat until the desired temperature is displayed. Make sure you press the correct button, as some thermostats may have separate buttons for increasing and decreasing the temperature.

Step 4: Wait for the heater to reach the desired temperature. This may take a few minutes or longer, depending on the size of the room and the power of the heater.

Use the Up and Down Buttons to Set the Temperature

Step 1: Locate the up and down buttons on the heater control panel.

Step 2: Press the up button to increase the temperature or the down button to decrease the temperature.

Step 3: Keep adjusting the temperature until you reach the desired temperature for your room.

Step 4: Once you have set the temperature, wait a few minutes for the heater to adjust to the new temperature before checking the actual room temperature.

Press the Set Button to Confirm the Temperature

Once you have set your desired temperature using the up and down buttons, you need to confirm it by pressing the set button. This will save the temperature and activate the heating system accordingly.

Make sure that you have set the correct temperature before pressing the set button. If you press the set button and then realize that you need to adjust the temperature, you will have to repeat the process from the beginning.

Wait for the Heater to Reach the Desired Temperature

Patience is key when waiting for your heater to warm up your space to your desired temperature. Depending on the size of the room, the heater may take some time to reach the set temperature.

During this time, it is important to check for any unusual smells or sounds. If you notice any unusual smells, turn off the heater and call a professional to inspect it. Unusual sounds may also indicate an issue with the heater.

Once the heater reaches the desired temperature, it will automatically turn off and on to maintain that temperature. If the temperature drops, the heater will turn on again to bring the temperature back up.

Prime the Pump

Step 1: Before priming the pump, make sure that the pump and surrounding area are free from debris and other obstructions that could affect the pump’s performance.

Step 2: Locate the pump’s priming plug and remove it. This will be located near the bottom of the pump, and it may be labeled as “pr” or “prime.”

Step 3: Fill the pump with water until it overflows from the priming plug. This will help to remove any air pockets that may be present in the pump and suction line.

Step 4: Replace the priming plug and tighten it securely. The pump is now primed and ready to operate.

Turn the Pump On

To prime the pump, you need to turn it on. Locate the power button for the pump and press it. Wait for the pump to start running.

When you turn the pump on, it will start to draw water into the system. This will help to create the necessary pressure in the pipes and ensure that the water flows smoothly through the system.

Make sure that you do not turn the pump on until you have completed all of the necessary preparations, such as filling the pipes with water, closing all of the valves, and ensuring that there are no leaks in the system.

Wait for Water to Flow Through the Heater

After turning the pump on, you may need to wait for water to flow through the heater. This process may take a few minutes, depending on the size of your system and the distance between the heater and the pump.

While waiting, check the connections and hoses to make sure there are no leaks. Also, monitor the pressure gauge to ensure that the pressure is within the recommended range.

Ignite the Pilot Light

Step 1: Locate the pilot light assembly. It is typically located near the bottom of the heater and has a gas valve control knob.

Step 2: Turn the gas valve control knob to “off” and wait five minutes for any remaining gas to dissipate.

Step 3: Turn the gas valve control knob to “pilot.” Hold down the knob and use a lighter or match to light the pilot light.

Step 4: Hold down the gas valve control knob for 30 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up. Release the knob and the pilot light should stay lit.

Set the Control Knob to “Pilot”

Before igniting the pilot light, locate the control knob and turn it to the “pilot” position. This will allow gas to flow to the pilot light when you are ready to light it.

It is important to note that different heaters may have different control knobs and settings. Refer to your heater’s manual for specific instructions on how to set the control knob to “pilot”.

Once you have located the control knob and set it to “pilot”, you are ready to move on to the next step in igniting the pilot light.

Be sure to follow all safety instructions and precautions when working with gas heaters. If you are unsure of how to safely operate your heater, contact a professional for assistance.

Press and Hold the Igniter Button

Once the control knob is set to “Pilot,” locate the igniter button. This button is typically red and located near the control knob.

To ignite the pilot light, press and hold the igniter button while simultaneously holding down the control knob. Keep holding both buttons down for at least 30 seconds to allow the gas to flow and the pilot light to ignite.

Release the Igniter Button and Turn the Control Knob to “On”

Congratulations! You’ve successfully ignited the pilot light. Now, it’s time to release the igniter button and turn the control knob to “On”.

When you turn the control knob to “On”, the main burner should ignite and start heating the water in your tank. You may hear some noise or see some flickering flames as the burner ignites, but don’t worry, this is normal.

Once the burner is lit, you should be able to feel the warmth of the hot water. It may take a few minutes for the water to heat up to the desired temperature, so be patient and give it some time.

Monitor the Heater and Pool Temperature

Check the Heater periodically to make sure it’s functioning properly. Look for any warning lights or error codes on the display panel. If you notice any issues, refer to the owner’s manual or call a professional.

Use a pool thermometer to monitor the water temperature. The temperature should be set to your desired level for comfortable swimming. If the water is too cold or too hot, adjust the thermostat accordingly.

Keep track of the outdoor temperature as well. The temperature outside can affect the temperature of the water in the pool. If it’s extremely hot or cold outside, you may need to adjust the heater to compensate.

Clean the Heater regularly to keep it functioning efficiently. Remove any debris or leaves that may have accumulated on or around the heater. Refer to the owner’s manual for specific cleaning instructions.

Check the Heater Display for Error Codes

If the heater display shows an error code, consult the owner’s manual to troubleshoot the issue. Common error codes include “FL” for flow issues, “HL” for high limit issues, and “LO” for low pressure issues.

If you are unable to resolve the issue, contact a professional pool technician for assistance. Continuing to operate the heater with an error code may cause further damage or create a safety hazard.

To prevent future error codes, ensure the pool pump and filter are properly maintained, and keep an eye out for any signs of leaks or blockages in the pool plumbing.

Use a Pool Thermometer to Monitor the Temperature

One of the most effective ways to monitor the temperature of your pool is by using a pool thermometer. This device measures the temperature of the water in your pool and provides you with an accurate reading that can help you determine if your heater is functioning correctly.

Pool thermometers come in various shapes and sizes, but they all work in a similar way. Simply place the thermometer in your pool and wait for it to float to the surface. Once it has stabilized, you can read the temperature from the display on the device.

It’s important to check the temperature of your pool regularly to ensure that it is at the desired temperature. If the temperature is too low, you may need to adjust your heater settings to warm the water. If the temperature is too high, you may need to turn down your heater or add some cool water to the pool.

Adjust the Temperature as Needed

Once you have monitored the pool temperature and ensured that the heater is functioning properly, you may need to adjust the temperature as per your preferences.

Use the temperature control knob to adjust the temperature up or down as needed. Make sure to make small adjustments and wait for some time to see the effect on the pool temperature.

If you have a pool cover, use it to maintain the pool temperature and reduce heat loss. The pool cover can help retain the heat generated by the pool heater, and you won’t need to run the heater as often.

Frequently Asked Questions