Do I need a heater bypass?

[@CG-pt5oh]

I'm a new owner figuring stuff out. Thanks for the video. Mine has a bypass and now I know it would be a good thing to use it. However, if you use the bypass, should you worry about stagnant water in the heater? If so is there a recommended frequency to flush it?

[@brunoschcabncC943-38HS-43FND83]

If you don't have a bypass, can you just turn off the heater and the water will still flow through it to the return line? Or does the heater need to be on? Sorry, I'm new to those things...

[@Optix-Code]

So to answer your question do you have to have one no. I haven't had one on mine for 10 years and everything is fine. Water chemistry is key and good plumbing.

[@Inyopools]

We agree, Kevin. It's isn't 100% necessary. I like to recommend them for the reasons we mentioned, but I wouldn't tell someone it is required.

[@fernandofraticelli2104]

I have a pentair master temp heater with a check valve in the hot side of the heater. I want to install a bypass. Should the output be connected before the check valve or after the check valve?

[@jeeping2002]

I have a similar question as C G I put a bypass on my heater. When not in use like Monday to Thursday I was planning on bypassing and letting water out of the heater so it doesn’t have stagnant water. Also so my pump doesn’t have to pump water through it that won’t be being heated. Do you see any problems with this idea? Draining heater of water when not in use?

[@Inyopools]

No, there is nothing wrong with draining water from the heater when it is not in use.

[@CS-wk9pd]

@@Inyopools Does it make sense to, in mild winters with occasional freezing temps, close off the bypass so no water goes to the heater and drain the remaining water in the heater? The previous owner didnt use the heater, so im not sure if there is even any water in it to begin with. TIA

[@josephnarynski2668]

Inground pool , does the bottom drain 8 ft. need to be winterized?

[@Inyopools]

Yes, the main drain line does need to be winterized. We discuss how to winterize the main drain in the following video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/monEXqqAbKymq5I

[@ordoney1]

I agree if you get a heat pump make sure you have a bypass or else you will go through hell if he have break down issue and it will wear down your exchange pipe if you have it always running

[@stbam1965]

You are not suposed to have a bypass on your pool heater for safety reasons. If someone forgets to open the valves it can cause it to explode. I just talked to a pool and spa repair and installer. He said that its illegal to install a bypass on heater.

[@Inyopools]

We have not heard that before. The manufacturers discuss external bypass valves in their manuals and why they may be needed. These heaters also have a built-in water pressure switch that turns the burners off if the water supply is interrupted. I'd get a second opinion from another installer.

[@drdrew3]

That’s complete nonsense. The ability to bypass the heater is a standard aspect of modern pool design. Nothing is going to explode. During bypass the plumbing works just as if the heater didn’t exist. There’s no blockage or back pressure at all

[@coronanick9293]

Maybe old heaters, new ones have flow sensor to prevent that... but a bypass to slow down water is not a plus, better to just slow down the pump roms

[@coronanick9293]

Rpms

[@Proteanlife]

Such bad advice. Shameful business.