When a pool owner purchases a Raypak pool heater from us, one of their first concerns is Raypak’s internet warranty policy. Specifically, they want to know if you purchase a pool heater online, will it void the manufacturer’s warranty?
Well, worry no more.
At the 2017 International Pool and Spa Show, we had the chance to speak with John Kane, the National Sales Manager with Raypak and asked him a few questions regarding their internet warranty policy.
Raypak’s Internet Warranty Policy
In short, YES, Raypak honors warranties of pool heaters purchased from INYOPools.com. When we asked the Raypak Sales Manager, here is what he said,
“Yes and actuallyINYO is one of the companies that we actually recommend people go to.You guys know pools and you know how to correctly size the heater, as well as tell the consumer how to install the heater, how to operate and how to maintain the heater going forward. We recommend buying from people that know how the Raypak heater operates.The warranty is in effect, there are no issues there.”
Still, even if you are purchasing a pool heater online, there are still some guidelines you have to abide by. These guidelines not only keep your warranty in place but also help extend the longevity of your pool heater.
Hiring a Licensed Installer
One of the most important things to do when maintaining your heater is to install it correctly. In the Raypak manual, it clearly states your warranty is voided, “if the product is not properly installed with a pool or spa by a qualified licensed installer in accordance with applicable local codes and ordinances.”
In fact, the quickest way to void your heater’s manufacturer warranty is by hiring an unlicensed person to install your heater. Some pool owners assume that experience replaces a license. Unfortunately, this isn’t true. In order to keep your warranty intact, hire a licensed professional to install your heater.
Raypak requires a licensed professional because it decreases the margin of error during installation. Because the warranty does not cover any damages that occurduring installation, it’s probably best simplyto go with a licensed installer.
If you’re having trouble locating an installer in your area, feel free to call Raypak at 805-278-5300. If you give them your zip code, they will provide you with a certified installer in your area.
Maintaining Proper Water Chemistry
One of the leading issues that lead to heater failure is chemical damage. It is extremely important for pool owners to maintain proper chemical levels in their pool. If you do not maintain your pool correctly, the heater is one of the first pieces of equipment to go bad. Sure, a cupro-nickel heat exchanger withstands the harshness of saltwater. However, even a cupro-nickel heat exchanger isn’t strong enough to handle poor water chemistry.
In fact, Raypak’s websiteprovides the chemical levels that they recommend for optimal performance.
Installing a Check Valve
If you are installing a pool heater, we also recommend installing a check valve. The purpose of a check valve is to prevent backwash of unwanted waste. In terms of a pool heater, we recommend pool owners install a check valve between their salt system and Raypakheater.
When you turn the pool pump off, the water in your chlorinator or salt system may return back to your pool heater. At that point, it may sit and eat away at your heat exchanger.
In the ‘water chemistry’ section, Raypak states, “Automatic chemical dosing devices and salt chlorinators are usually more efficient in heater water unless controlled, they can lead to excessive chlorine level. The warranty does not cover the chemical damage. Pool owners should install a check valve between the heater outlet and a chlorinator or other chemical dosing device.”
Getting Your Heater
Here are a few recommendations for pool owners ordering their heater online:
Inspect Your Heater
Inspect your heater as soon as it arrives. Yes, even if the package arrives in perfect condition and even if you aren’t planning to install it until the following year. The last thing you need is to open your heater to notice one of the unions arrived cracked. A simple inspection when the unit arrives saves you any additional hassle down the line.
Call a licensed installer AFTER you receive your heater.
I know it’s human nature to plan ahead. However, based on our experience, it’s easier to wait until you have your heater before calling your installer. There are a few reasons for this. In many instances, homeowners take a day off of work and wait for delivery with their installer in place. Installers typically charge pool owners a flat fee, even for a visit.You can avoid an installer charging you a home visit fee in the event that your heater doesn’t arrive.
Additionally, if your heater arrives damaged (it’s not common but it does happen) you’re not in jeopardy of an installer charging you for a visit.
Balance Your Swimming Pool
We cannot stress enough how important it is to balance and maintain your swimming pool. If you are having trouble balancing your pool, please review our articles to review the recommended chemical levels and how to achieve them.
- How to Clean a Green Pool
- How to Balance Your Pool Water
Install a Check Valve
Don’t forget to install your check valve. Trust us, you (and your heater) will be glad you did. Since there are several different kinds of check valves, we have a guide that looks at the functions and descriptions of each check valve.
- Overview: How To Select a Pool Check Valve
Register Your Warranty
Raypak recommends new Raypak owners to register their heater online for warranty purposes. Doing this proactively creates an account for customers in casethey need technical support in the future. The process isn’t long at all.
Review Raypak’s Warranty
As a consumer, it’s always wise to read what the warranty says on paper. There are important factors to consider when reviewing your warranty policy:
- The Scope of Warranty: Raypak only warrants the original heater owner. The warranty is not transferable.
- Effective Date
- Labor/ Shipping Costs
- Warranty Exclusions
- How To Make a Claim
- Raypak Warranty
Enjoy Your Heater
If you’re on the hunt for a good pool heater, don’t be afraid to purchase one online. Buying online can literally save you hundreds of dollars. Unfortunately, even if you purchase in store, you must still have a licensed installer perform the installation. The warranty limitations apply to any new pool heater owner. Raypak is a great heating company and we firmly stand behind their products and warranty services.
If you need help sizing your heater or need a recommendation, give us a call or leave us a comment below.
