Which Swimming Pool Heater is Right for You?

If you are in the market for a swimming pool heater, you will find several choices depending on its source of power or energy. The three main types of pool heating systems are the solar swimming pool heater, electric swimming pool heater or heat pump and the gas swimming pool heater. There are different factors to consider when choosing which system is right for you.

Solar Swimming Pool Heater

As its name suggests, this type of pool heater uses the heat of the sun to warm your pool water, which your pool pump delivers to the solar pool heater, typically placed in a row on the roof. You will set the pump to operate during daylight. A solar swimming pool heater provides heat all year round and is ideal for recreational swimming. It usually costs around $1000 up to about $5000 with installation costing anywhere from $500 to $2500.

Obviously, the advantage of a solar swimming pool heater is it has minimal operating costs since it relies on solar energy. The cost comes from the electricity needed to operate the pool pump. In general, the size of the system should be equal to or at least half of the size of the pool surface. It comes in varying sizes and custom sizes.

Electric Swimming Pool Heater

If you or your family likes to swim whether its sunny or not, then choose this type of pool heater. This is also the ideal alternative when there is no available structure in your house to put a solar pool heater. An electric swimming pool heater or heat pump works when the external air temperature is over 45 degrees. It captures the heat from the air and then transfers it to the pool water. It is partly a solar system because warm weather makes it more efficient. The cost of a heat pump ranges from a little over $2000 to less than $5000. Installation costs about $350 to a little less than $1000. Heat pumps are highly efficient and, therefore, cost less to operate. Generally, you will spend only about $250-$500 annually when you use this.

Gas Swimming Pool Heater

For heating your swimming pool for only a short period, choose this type of pool heater. While it is an effective heating system, a gas-operated swimming pool heater costs more to operate. Choose this heater if you do not regularly heat your pool. It is also ideal for second homes, as a backup heating system, or a spa heater.

It is the most affordable system. You can purchase one for less than $1000 and install it for only $350. However, it has a high operating cost. Typically, the average yearly cost for a propane fueled swimming pool heater ranges from $1000-$1500 per year. Those that use natural gas cost half as much annually to operate.