You are thinking about this product because you have an old hot tub and the only other heater replacement options are near $1,000.
You do need some plumbing and electrical knowledge to install this safely. If you haven't ever installed a light switch or a sink or toilet, then definitely seek some professional help).
I read many of the reviews before purchasing this, and that really helped my piping and installation plans to be efficient. It still took me an hour getting parts, and about 90 minutes to install.
One of my main recommendations is to avoid barb fittings and clamps. These just aren't intended for permanent solutions where there's high pressure in the pipes. Using couplings and PVC cement (which is just a rub on glue) is easy. I'm also not a fan of people manipulating the pressure safety switch (that's a fire risk). If you don't have a strong enough pump, as described by the vendor, then don't use this.
Fittings: forget the hardware and plumbing stores - go to a pool specialty store. I got everything I needed in one stop. The half union threads are specific to pools and spas - you will need to attach a coupling or reducer or elbow to that piece that comes off of the heater before you add pipe. You may need 2-in to 1 1/2-in reducers, those are at these stores. I highly recommend the flexible PVC pipe (it's like $5/ft) - it's very stiff, but it's certainly easier than perfectly planning your pipe installation and lengths and rotations. You can see from my pic I had a rather complicated piping because of the direction this heater needs to be installed (that's my only minor complaint of this product).
In the end, this heated my 900 L hot tub to 100 F, from cold, overnight and seems to be holding that temperature pretty steadily.
| Manufacturer | pool spa part |
|---|---|
| Item model number | 159l |
| Product Dimensions | 17.78 x 17.78 x 20.32 cm; 1.36 kg |
| ASIN | B07K46FWKN |
