Is your pool heater refusing to start after a power outage, lightning strike, heavy rain or wind? Electrical surges, water damage and clogged systems are common causes for your equipment to stop functioning after severe weather. At Parts4PoolHeaters, we help pool owners and heating professionals address the root of storm-related pool heater issues by providing them with convenient access to the exact parts they need.
In this article, we go over the most common reasons your pool heater won’t turn on after a storm and the parts that most likely need to be replaced.
Note: Working with pool heaters and electrical infrastructure involves serious safety risks. It is always best to work with a professional when inspecting or servicing your system to ensure your safety and the proper functioning of your equipment.
Step 1: Check the Power Supply and Electrical Components
Is it turned on? Like other electronics, the first thing to check is your power. Storms often cause power outages, tripped breakers and short circuits – all of which can prevent your heater from starting. If your breaker has tripped or your outlet has popped, resetting it may solve the problem. However, if your unit still doesn’t respond, you may be dealing with a damaged fuse, circuit board or transformer.
Parts that may be damaged:
We stock a wide selection of replacement electrical components compatible with most major pool heater brands.
Step 2: Inspect Sensors and Safety Switches
Pool heaters rely on a network of sensors and switches to operate safely. If any of these components detect something out of the ordinary – or get harmed during a storm – they’ll shut the heater down to prevent further damage. Water damage from heavy rain or flooding can also cause these safety systems to short out.
Key parts to check and replace if needed:
- Water pressure switch – shuts off the heater if there isn’t enough water flow
- High-limit switch – prevents overheating
- Thermistor or temperature sensor – monitors water temperature
- Flame rollout switch – detects overheating near the burner
- Flue sensor – detects abnormal temperatures in the exhaust
Many of these parts are inexpensive and easy to replace. If your unit shows an error code related to one of these switches, you could have a quick fix on your hands.
Step 3: Examine the Ignition and Burner System
If the heater is getting power and the safety sensors are working, but it still won’t start, the problem may be with the ignition system. Storms – especially those with lightning – can damage delicate components like igniters, flame sensors and gas valves. Sometimes, debris from wind can clog the burner orifices as well.
Common post-storm ignition-related issues:
- Hot surface igniter failure
- Flame sensor no longer detecting ignition
- Gas valve not opening due to electrical damage
- Burner tray corrosion or blockage
At Parts4PoolHeaters, we carry full burner assemblies and individual ignition parts, so you can restore your system’s heating function without replacing the entire unit.
Step 4: Don’t Forget About the Control Interface
Storms can also damage the display or keypad on your heater – especially if lightning causes a power surge. If you can’t access the menu or read the display, the control panel, keypad membrane or LCD screen may need to be replaced.
If your heater’s control panel is blank, flashing or showing unreadable characters, it is likely time to swap it out. We offer replacement display panels and keypad overlays for digital models.
Stay Warm – Even After the Storm
Your pool heater is a complicated system, but post-storm repairs don’t have to be. With the right replacement parts, you can get your pool back to the perfect swimming temperature in no time.
Browse parts online or give us a call at 800-536-1582 to get started. We’re your trusted source for OEM and compatible aftermarket pool heater parts across the U.S.