Getting a pool for yourself is a significant financial investment. When you invest so much so why let it be unused for half of the year? Its such a waste. Getting a pool heater extends your swimming season and you can also use it at your desired temperature. The main advantage of pool heating systems is that they require very little maintenance and have a long-life expectancy. Gas pool heaters are generally low emission and take up very little space. Gas heaters heat up the pool quickly allowing for year long enjoying swimming experience. And pool gas heaters with high BTU ratings raise the water temperature faster than any other type of pool heaters.
They are perfect for use in coldest weather as they can heat pool and spa in a short amount of time. In this article we will be reviewing Hayward W3H400FDN natural gas pool heater with 400k BTU rating. The Universal H-Series of Hayward pool heater is highly energy efficient and meet the NOx emission standards. In this review we will looking at Hayward heater’s overall specifications and functions to determine whether or not this heater is the right fit.
| Product Type | Pool Heater |
|---|---|
| Brand | Hayward |
| Model Number | W3H400FDN |
| Manufacturer | Hayward |
| Product Dimensions | 39.6 x 32.8 x 30.6 inches |
| Weight | 214 pounds |
| Pool Type | Spa/Hot Tub |
| Pool Type | In Ground |
| Installation Type | Residential |
| Voltage | 110V / 220V |
| Heat Output | 400,000 BTU |
| Heater Type | Natural Gas |
| Connection | 2 Inch Male Threaded |
| Venting | Vertical vent, Horizontal vent |
| Controls | Digital |
| Ignition | Electronic |
| Emission | Low NOx |
| Heat Exchanger | Cupro-Nickel |
| Elevation | 0 - 10,100 ft |
| Pool water type | Can be used in saltwater pools and chlorinated pool systems |
| FireTile | Securely traps the heat |
| Totally Managed Flow | Offers corrosion resistance and erosion protection |
| Thermal efficiency | 83-84% |
| Ignition system | Silicon nitride ignition system |
| Eco-Friendly | Yes |
| Energy Efficient | Yes |
| Easy installation | Yes |
| Quiet operation | Yes |
| Price range | Under 5000$ |
| Warranty | 2-Year |
FEATURES
POOL TYPE – Hayward Universal H-series pool heater can be used in both inground and outdoor pools or spas. The heater is perfect for those who use their pool regularly as the heater maintains constant temperature which makes everyday swimming experience enjoyable. Loaded with 400k BTU rating, Hayward H-series natural gas pool heater heats large sizes pools quickly and efficiently. Plus, the added advantage is that this heater can be used in saltwater and chlorinated pool water systems as the heaters overall build is made to be corrosion and rust free.
INSTALLATION – Installation of the device becomes pretty straightforward and convenient as the heater is compact in size. The heater combines advanced technology with universal-fit flexibility making it possible for easy installation and also compatible with any new or existing equipment pad. The heater connects to your natural gas line. It consists of built-in inlet and outlet union connections. There is 3/4″ gas connection at heater. The unit comes with 2″ threaded unions and it is plumbed at size 2″. The device adapts to voltage to either 110V or 220V. The 2in x 2 1/2in CPVC union plumbing connections is a common union for installation and is designed for today’s larger diameter plumbing systems. Choice of left-side or right-side electric, gas and water connections is also delivered. The user and manual guide contains detailed instructions regarding the installation process. Either you can do the installation by yourself or you can seek professional help.
HEATERS DESIGN – The Hayward Universal H-Series W3H400FDN is reliable and possess high heating efficiencies. Its compact design consumes very little space on the equipment pad. The heater is designed for excellent salt water and chemical corrosion resistance and also against premature failure that can be caused by unbalanced water chemistry. Hayward heater resists corrosion from settling onto the device. This makes the heater a perfect choice for areas with harsh environments.
HEATING ABILITY – Hayward natural gas pool heater will enable you to swim all year round as it can function in any weather conditions. The main thing with pool gas heaters is that they generally have high BTU rating which means they raise water temperature quickly than any other heater type. And Hayward consists of 400k BTU ratings that can raise the water temperature even much faster on a short notice. Usually, a temperature between 78 and 84 degrees is considered to be the ideal temperature for swimming and Hayward Universal H-series heater can raise the water temperature to the preferred degree in the shortest amount of time.
FINN PLATE HEAT EXCHANGER – Hayward Universal H-series gas pool heaters consist of State-of-the-industry Finn plate heat exchanger. It has a special V-groove design meant for faster heating and to last longer. And the heat exchanger type that is present in this unit is Cupro-nickel heat exchanger. Cupro-nickel is an alloy of copper that contains nickel. Cupro-nickel is highly resistant to corrosion in saltwater which makes it perfect to be used in saltwater and chlorinated pool water systems. Pool heaters with cupro-nickel heat exchangers are often recommended for owners with saltwater pools. It ensures that maximum heat transfer takes place within the heater for optimal heating. Cupro-nickel heat exchanger enables faster heating and also extends the life of your heater.
DIGITAL CONTROL – All controls of Hayward Universal H-series gas pool heater are digital. They are designed for user’s convenience and for easy controlling of the device. Hayward W3H400FDN consists of LED digital control panel that provides digital temperature readout, diagnostics and electronic ‘lock-out’ of temperature set-point. The LED display control monitors heaters performance with self-diagnostic capability. It also accurately maintains constant water temperature so that the pool or spa is in the perfect temperature when you’re ready to dive in.
QUIET OPERATION – Hayward Universal H-series heaters offers quiet operation for a peaceful backyard environment. The heater heats up water quickly and efficiently while minimizing noise. The device functions without producing much noise that makes the heater even more desirable among other heaters available in the market.
LOW NOx EMISSION – Before purchasing a heater its important to get acquainted with the state health and safety codes. But not to worry with Hayward as they come with Low Nox certification. Low Nox heaters are designed to minimize the levels of nitrogen-oxide. Hayward W3H400FDN is built to control the amount of emissions released from the heater. It also complies with California Air Quality and Texas air quality emissions Standards. Hayward W3H400FDN pool heater is a more environmentally safe way to heat your pool.
EASY MAINTENANCE – The best thing about the heater is that it is compact and becomes pretty convenient to use for the users. The digital display handles all the device controls and continuously displays the temperature statistics. Most of the parts are warranted for a year which is good news. Hayward heaters are all good quality and they always strive to maintain quality control which enables customers to care less about regular maintenance.
WARRANTY – Hayward W3H400FDN natural gas pool heater comes with a two-year warranty. If your heater installation is done professionally then the warranty coverage is two years parts and one year labour. The warranty period begins with either the date of purchase or the date of installation, proof of purchase or installation required.
PROS AND CONS
Let’s now look at few pros and cons related to the product.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- What are the dimensions of Hayward W3H400FDN natural gas pool heater?
The heater dimensions are: 36-1/2″ Width x 29-1/2″ Depth x 24″ Height and the heater weighs approx. 214 lbs.
- Can the heater be installed by oneself?
Well, it depends on the DIY skills of the user handling the unit. Installation is pretty straightforward as the user manual and guide comes with precise instructions. But you can also opt for professional help as they will double check for everything and will also check for any leaks if present.
- What are the connections on the heater?
The heater connects to your natural gas line and consists of built-in inlet and outlet union connections. There is 3/4″ gas connection at heater.
- What size is the unit plumbed at?
Hayward W3H400FDN is plumbed at size 2″.
- Does Hayward W3H400FDN natural gas pool heater comes with unions?
Yes, Hayward W3H400FDN pool heater comes with 2″ threaded unions.
- What are the plumbing connections on the unit?
The 2in x 2 1/2in CPVC union plumbing connections is a common union for installation.
- Can the device be installed indoors?
No, the device shouldn’t be installed indoors. It needs to be installed outside due to the exhaust.
- Does the heater need any protective cover to protect it from rain, etc?
The heater doesn’t require any protective cover as its exterior body is corrosion and rust proof and can take in all kinds of weather conditions. But it again depends on the user whether or not they want to put protective cover on the heater.
- Is it possible to raise the temperature above 104 degrees?
It is not advisable to raise the temperature above 104 degrees and the Hayward Universal H-Series heater is limited for safety purposes and code to 104 F.
- Does this heater require a vent?
No, the Hayward Universal H-Series heater doesn’t require a vent pipe of any kind.
- What is the warranty period of this device?Hayward Universal H-series has a standard warranty coverage of one-year parts and one year labour. If the heater is professionally installed then the warranty coverage is two years parts and one year labour. The warranty period begins with either the date of purchase or the date of installation, proof of purchase or installation required.
- Does this unit have the ability to run on propane?
No, this heater of Hayward is natural gas pool heater and it runs on gas. Hayward does make heater models that run on propane.
- During heavy rains can the water sweep into the control panel of the device?
Hayward Universal H-series heaters are built tough to withstand all type of weather conditions. The body and exterior are corrosion and rust poof. And, no, during rains the water doesn’t sweep into the control panel of the heater.
- Will the unit work in pool with saltwater systems?
Yes, Hayward W3H400FDN natural gas pool heater works well in pools with saltwater and chlorinated systems.
- What type of heat exchanger does this unit use?
Hayward W3H400FDN uses cupro-nickel heat exchanger for quick and rapid heating of pool or spa.
CONCLUSION
Hayward W3H400FDN natural gas pool heater is a highly efficient, durable and reliable heater in the industry that does what it claims for. The heater is designed to be tough and to deliver quiet and efficient heating for your pool and spa. The installation is convenient as the heater connects to the natural gas line and utilizes its built-in inlet and outlet union connections. The heater is certified for Low NOx emissions and meets all state air quality regulations which makes this heater environment friendly and safe heater for you and your family.
The digital control panel handles all the controls of the heater and continuously displays the temperature for quick modifications from the user. Totally Managed Flow offers corrosion resistance and erosion protection and is ideal for today’s salt-based electronic chlorination systems. Cupro-nickel heat exchanger ensures maximum heat transfer to enable faster heating and also extends the life of the heater. As this heater is equipped with 400k BTU, it can quickly raise the water temperature and is well-suited for heating large sized pools. Heater is compact in size which allows for easy maintenance. Overall, Hayward W3H400FDN natural gas pool heater works as it claims and delivers high performance and can be a good choice for users who want to enjoy their pool or spa throughout the year without encountering any troubles.
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