How To Turn A Built Right Pool Heater On And Off

Built Right Heater is eco-friendly and easy to operate. It doesn't need gas, and it doesn't emit carbon oxides. All you need is electricity and to set the proper temperature for your pool. But if you can't figure out how to turn the heater on and off, you're on the right page. We've done the work to help you out. 

You just need to plug the pool heater into an electric outlet and control the settings to turn it on and off. Setting a lower desired temperature than the actual water temperature can switch the heater on or off.  You can also switch off the electric supply directly to completely turn off the unit.

Are you having trouble turning your heater on and off? Continue reading for the step-by-step guide to turning the pool heater on and off.

two pool heaters, one old and one new situated at the back of a house - How To Turn A Built Right Pool Heater On And Off

Built Right Pool Heater 101

Follow these basic steps to turn the pool heater on:

  • If the unit is in OFF mode but still powered up, press the SET button four times until OFF appears on the display. 
  • To turn the unit on, press the DOWN button twice. The Pool red light beside the display will light up, indicating the heater is on.
  • Increase the temperature to whatever you desire by pressing the UP button.

To turn the pool heater off, here's what you need to do:

  • Press the SET button four times until the OFF button appears on the display.
  • Press the UP button twice until YES shows. The Pool red led light beside the display will turn off.
  • The unit will also turn off once the temperature is below 60° F.
  • Caution: The unit still has a high voltage even if it is in OFF mode. If you want to completely turn off the unit, switch off the electrical supply.

How to increase or decrease the Spa temperature

  • Press SET until you see SPA on the display.
  • Press the UP or DOWN button to set your desired temperature.

How fast will a pool heater heat your pool?

Backyard with swimming pool in stylish home

Heating the pool will last from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the size of the pool, the climate, and other factors that may affect the pool heater's performance. For a smaller size like a spa, the pool can heat up from 45 to 60 minutes.

Where to install the pool heater

Bubble wrap like pool cover pulled over a swimming pool to keep in heat overnight

The unit should not be located where there are water splashes, sprinkles, or roof run-off. Remember, corrosive water damage will void the warranty. The digital display should be away from direct sunlight. There won't be any physical damage in case of sunlight exposure, but the display visibility will be difficult to read.

The Built Right pool heater is designed for outdoor installation. It requires sufficient air circulation for proper operation.

Install the unit on a flat, concrete surface or fabric slab. It should be at least the same level as the pool surface. You may consult a professional technician for proper installation.

Installing Built-Right Heater properly will increase the performance of your heat pump and reduce the energy cost. The heat pump is designed for low cost and maintenance. You can follow the advice in the instruction manual to install it or seek a heat pump technician for assistance.

If you are looking for an indoor heater, you can read this other post for a recommendation: What Heaters Are Safe For Indoors? [7 Options Explored]

Taking care of your Built Right Pool Heater

While the Built Right Heater is cost-effective in heating your pool and spa, the ideal time to turn on the pool heater is during the daytime when the temperature outside is the best.

A pool heater is not used to provide quick heating, thus setting the desired temperature and leaving it like that would work best. Shutting the unit off is recommended if it is not in use for a long time.

For proper maintenance of your Built-Right Heater, follow these best practices:

  • Provide a good airflow around the equipment, and make sure there is no obstruction on each side of the unit.
  • Water spray can damage your heater. Keep it away from water splashes, sprinkles, and rain.
  • Keep the drain holes of the equipment away from dirt, weeds, and water.
  • Have a professional technician inspect and maintain the heater at least once a year. 
  • You can use a heat pump cover to protect the unit.

Click here to see this Climate Shield heat pump cover on Amazon.

Why does my pool heater go on and off?

two pool heaters, one old and one new situated at the back of a house

The most common cause of a pool heater going on and off is a closed valve or dirty filter which leads to inadequate water flow. After cleaning the filter or fixing the valve and the on and off cycle is still an issue, the problem could be a reversed water connection or a water pressure switch issue.

How to troubleshoot a pool heater

The basic troubleshooting is checking the power source. See to it that the pool heater is properly plugged. Check the electric wiring and the breaker to ensure that the unit is getting enough power sources to function. If all these are inadequate, go for the following:

  • Place your hand on the top of the heater. If the unit is blowing cold air, this indicates that the heater is on. The water returning to the pool will be 3 to 5° F warmer than the water in your pool.
  • Check if there is an error code. If you see an error code like "Lo/Hi or Flo," that means the pool heater is not receiving enough water. It could be a dirty filter or pressure issue.
  • Set the temperature settings. Make sure that the pool heater's temperature is higher than the water temperature of your pool.
  • Check the outdoor temperature. Once the outdoor temperature hits below 50° F, the heater pump will not work well as it should. One DIY trick you can do is use a solar cover on your heater to trap the heat it generates. 
  • Check the filter. If the filter has blockage due to dirt, your heater will not receive inadequate water. Clean in regularly to avoid clogging.
  • Have a look at your pool pump. It could be not strong enough to bring adequate water to the heater. You can upgrade to a variable pool pump since it offers more power, efficiency, and longevity.
  • Inspect the plumbing valves. If the valves were set in the wrong direction, your pool heater will not get an adequate and necessary water flow.
  • If your pool heater is leaking, you can check this post for more information.

Display Errors

The display error will indicate the possible cause of the pool heater problem. Listed below are some of the common display errors:

  • If the display shows HP or HP3, the possible cause is water flow restriction. The valve is turned and restricting the flow. What you can do is clean the filter and adjust the valve. If the problem still occurs, call a professional technician.
  • When the display shows LP or LP3, the possible cause is low refrigerant, or it has a faulty low-pressure sensor.
  • If FS, FS1, FS2, FS3, or FS4 appears on the display, it means the air temperature is too cold for heater operation. If it shows FS5, it means the temperature is too cold after 5 FS signals.

Is it advisable to run your heaters at night?

A backyard swimming pool and Hot Tub hot tob at night with solar lights around the fence for privacy and illumination.

It is best to turn off your heater at night, especially if it is not in use to save energy. It will not function properly if the climate is low. A pool heater is best to turn on during daylight, at least several hours before using the pool, to absorb the warm air from its surroundings. You may also use a solar cover or blanket to retain the pool temperature.

How long does a pool heater last?

Heating system

Pool heaters are designed for low maintenance. A pool heater can last from 6 to 12 years even without general maintenance. Taking good care of the unit will make it last longer.

In Closing

Using a pool heater is easy and simple. The unit will also last longer with general maintenance, which could save you money in the long run. 

Before you go, you might want to check out these other posts:

How To Install An Above-Ground Pool Heater

5 Electric Pool Heaters For Inground Pools

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