Product Overview
The Raypak Avia® Propane Gas Heater 018051 is a high-output smart pool and spa heater designed for powerful propane heating, advanced corrosion resistance, and convenient Wi-Fi control. Commonly listed as a 400,000 BTU class heater, this Avia model delivers approximately 399,000 BTU of heating performance for larger residential pools, spas, and pool/spa combination systems.
This heater features Raypak’s NiTek® heat exchanger, engineered for enhanced resistance against corrosion and demanding water conditions. It is a strong choice for saltwater pools, high-use spas, and customers who want added exchanger durability compared with standard copper models.
With propane gas operation, built-in smart Wi-Fi control, Low NOx emissions design, electronic ignition, polymer headers, and Raypak’s modern Avia platform, the 018051 is built for homeowners who want powerful heating with easier everyday control.
Ideal For
The Raypak 018051 heater is ideal for:
- Larger residential swimming pools
- Spas and hot tubs
- Pool and spa combination systems
- Propane gas installations
- Saltwater pool applications
- Customers wanting NiTek® exchanger protection
- Homeowners wanting smart Wi-Fi heater control
- Customers needing a Low NOx heater
- Faster heat-up for pool and spa systems
- Replacing older high-BTU propane pool heaters
Key Features
400K BTU Class Heating Performance
The Raypak Avia 404 platform provides high-output propane heating performance for larger residential pool and spa systems. This model is commonly referred to as a 400K BTU class heater, with an approximate rated input of 399,000 BTU.
Propane Gas Operation
Designed for use with propane gas, making it a practical option for properties without natural gas service or installations already configured for propane heating.
NiTek® Heat Exchanger
The NiTek® heat exchanger is designed for enhanced corrosion resistance and long-term durability in demanding pool and spa environments, including saltwater applications.
Smart Wi-Fi Control
Built-in Wi-Fi allows compatible smart control access, giving homeowners convenient heater monitoring and operation from connected devices.
Low NOx Emissions Design
This heater is designed as a Low NOx model, making it suitable for areas where reduced emissions equipment may be required by local code.
Polymer Headers
Durable polymer headers help resist corrosion and are designed for long-term residential pool and spa use.
Electronic Ignition
Electronic ignition provides reliable startup when there is a call for heat and eliminates the need for a constant standing pilot.
Digital Control System
The digital control interface makes it easy to set and monitor pool or spa water temperature while supporting simple diagnostics and service access.
Avia® Smart Heater Platform
The Avia® design combines powerful heating, modern connectivity, compact equipment-pad installation, and service-friendly access for residential pool and spa systems.
Benefits
The Raypak 018051 Avia® Propane Gas Heater gives homeowners a powerful combination of high-BTU propane heating, smart control, and enhanced exchanger durability. Its 400K BTU class output makes it a strong option for larger residential pools and pool/spa combinations where fast heat-up is important.
The NiTek® heat exchanger helps protect against corrosion in saltwater and demanding water conditions, while the polymer headers support long-term residential pool and spa use. Built-in Wi-Fi adds convenient control, allowing homeowners to monitor and manage the heater more easily. With Low NOx design, electronic ignition, and Raypak’s Avia platform, this heater is built for comfort, convenience, and long-lasting performance.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Raypak |
| Product Type | Smart Low NOx Pool & Spa Gas Heater |
| Series | Avia® |
| Model | Avia 404 / P-R404A-EP-N |
| Part Number | 018051 |
| SKU | RAY018051 |
| UPC / Barcode | 840891099246 |
| Fuel Type | Propane Gas |
| BTU Class | 400K |
| BTU Rating | 399,000 BTU |
| Ignition Type | Electronic Ignition |
| Control Type | Digital Control with Smart Wi-Fi |
| Heat Exchanger | NiTek® |
| Header Material | Polymer |
| Emissions Type | Low NOx |
| Connectivity | Built-in Wi-Fi |
| Application | Residential pool and spa heating |
| Installation Type | Outdoor; indoor only with proper venting and code compliance |
| Gas Type | Propane |
Important Installation Notes
This heater should be installed by a licensed pool, gas, or HVAC professional. Proper propane gas line sizing, electrical wiring, bonding, water flow, ventilation, clearances, and local code compliance are required for safe operation and warranty protection.
This model is designed for propane gas. It should not be used with natural gas unless the correct factory-approved natural gas model is selected.
For installations in emissions-regulated areas, confirm that this Low NOx model meets local requirements before purchase and installation.
Smart Wi-Fi control requires a compatible wireless network and proper setup during or after installation.
Customer-Facing Q&A
Q: Is this heater natural gas or propane?
A: This model, Raypak 018051 / Avia 404, is the propane gas version.
Q: Is this a 400K BTU heater?
A: Yes. This heater is commonly listed as a 400K BTU class model, with an approximate rated input of 399,000 BTU.
Q: Does this heater have Wi-Fi control?
A: Yes. This Raypak Avia model includes built-in smart Wi-Fi control for compatible remote monitoring and heater operation.
Q: What is the NiTek® heat exchanger?
A: The NiTek® heat exchanger is designed for enhanced corrosion resistance and added durability in demanding pool and spa water conditions.
Q: Can this heater be used on a saltwater pool?
A: Yes. The NiTek® heat exchanger makes this model a strong option for saltwater applications, but proper water chemistry must still be maintained.
Q: What does Low NOx mean?
A: Low NOx means the heater is designed to produce reduced nitrogen oxide emissions compared with standard gas heater models. This may be required in certain regulated areas.
Q: What are polymer headers?
A: Polymer headers are corrosion-resistant water headers designed for long-term residential pool and spa use.
Q: Is this heater suitable for a spa?
A: Yes. It can be used for residential pool and spa heating when properly sized and installed.
Q: Does this heater require professional installation?
A: Yes. Propane pool heaters must be installed by a qualified professional to ensure proper gas, electrical, venting, water flow, and bonding compliance.