Pool Heaters

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Review – Hayward W3H400FDN / H400FDN H-Series Pool Heater

This review is focused on the Hayward W3H400FDN H-Series pool heater but since all the H-Series heaters are identical this review also applies to all of the other sizes in this series like the W3H250FDN (250k BTU) and the W3H200FDN (200K BTU). The W3H400FDN replaces the older model H400FDN. If you buy a pool heater online make sure you have it installed by a certified Hayward technician to keep your warranty valid. If you install it yourself you will void the warranty.

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Learn more about how to warm your pool with our swimming pool heaters reviews. From Black & Decker to Hayward to Pentair, we cover all of the top brands along with pool heat pump guides to help you find the best equipment and get the best out of your purchase.

What to look for in a pool heater?
There are many factors to take into account when choosing the optimal heater for your pool. It’s an important one to get right – buying the wrong heater could be an expensive mistake. So here are a few things you need to take into consideration when looking to acquire a heater for your pool water.

  • Size

    As our guide to pool heater size states, it’s better to go for a heater that is a little bigger than needed rather than underestimating the size. This will prevent you from long waiting times between turning the heater on and getting to swim. You need to ensure you consider all metrics when calculating the volume of water it contains – length, width and depth!

  • Heat pump or heater?
    Pool heat pumps are a high efficiency option, taking heat from the surrounds and converting it to warmth for the pool. They are more environmentally friendly than some other options, and can be cheaper and more efficient to run, requiring less maintenance overall. They tend to deliver an optimal performance in the long term, but can take longer to heat the water.

    Though they are initially the most expensive option, you may find that with their extended lifespan, they end up saving you money in the long term. For more on pumps, you can check out our heat pump swimming pool heaters reviews.

  • Power source
    If going for a heater, there are three types of power source:

    Gas: Highly efficient, but perhaps more expensive to run, these burn fuel such as propane to generate heat for your pool. The upfront cost of a gas heater is lower than a heat pump, and it works to heat the pool more quickly than a pump.

    Solar: Though this isn’t a cheap option in terms of initial outlay, and it’s dependent on cloud coverage being low, this option is the most eco-friendly source of heat. Plus operating costs are minimal. If you live in a sunny place, this is a great option.

    Electric: These pumps are cheaper to run than gas, and heat the pool just as quickly. They’re an excellent choice for jacuzzis and hot tubs.

FAQ

  • Can I use a pool heater in a salt water pool?
    Most heaters can be used in a salt water pool but you'll want to keep an eye on corrosion of parts. If possible, avoid going for one with copper parts, as this will corrode quicker.
  • Do I need a pool heater for an indoor pool?
    It's a good idea to heat the water to be warmer than the air temperature. An indoor pool will not require as much heating as an outdoor pool. It all depends on the cold tolerance of the people who are likely to use it.
  • What is the optimal temperature for pool water?
    You are generally looking for a pool to be heated within the range of 78 to 82 degrees fahrenheit, or 25 to 28 degrees celsius.
  • Which brands are best for pool heaters?
    There are several excellent brands. One we return to is Hayward, a brand which has thoroughly earned its excellent reputation for fast pool heating.
  • How often should I get my pool heater serviced?
    This depends on what type of heater you have. A standard pool heater should be scheduled for an annual service conducted by a trained technician, especially if you have a gas-powered model. A heat pump must be drained on a yearly basis, but will likely only require servicing every 2-3 years.
  • What type of heat exchanger should I look for in my heater?
    Many models come with a copper heat exchanger or a cupronickel one. Cupronickel is recommended for salt water based pools. Many heat pumps come with a titanium heat exchanger, which is by far the most efficient and durable type.

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