How to Choose a Pool Heater: 3 Things You Should Know

How to Buy a Pool Heater With Complete Confidence

You want to upgrade your pool equipment, and you're doing your due diligence. After all, a quality heater adds enjoyment and many hours of pool time over the days and into shoulder seasons, offering you and your family the chance to enjoy your pool for more months throughout the year.

It’s crucial to understand what makes a durable and efficient pool heater. Below, we break down the top 3 things you need to know when choosing the best pool heater for your pool.

1. Understand the Different Types of Pool Heaters

There are 3 main types of pool heaters: gas heaters, electric heat pumps, and solar heaters. Each comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. Choosing the right type depends on your priorities, such as heating speed, energy efficiency, and climate conditions.

• Gas Heaters: Known for their quick heating capability, gas heaters can heat a pool in just a few hours. However, gas heaters can be more expensive to operate long-term due to rising fuel costs. They are ideal for small pools that are only used occasionally or during cooler months.

• Electric Heat Pumps: These are energy-efficient and eco-friendly choices that work by extracting heat from the air and transferring it to your pool. They’re slower to heat a pool than gas heaters but are far cheaper to operate over time, making them ideal for those who plan to use their pool regularly throughout the year.

• Solar Heaters: These use the sun's energy to heat the pool water, which is very cost-effective if you live in a sunny area. However, they can be less reliable during cloudy or colder months and usually require a significant upfront investment in installation. They're ideal for houses in extremely sunny climates that have an existing solar setup.

2. Choose the Right Pool Heater for Your Pool Size

One of the most critical factors in choosing a pool heater is ensuring it’s the right size for your pool. To determine the proper heater size, you'll need to consider your pool’s gallons, the climate in your area, and the desired temperature. Generally, the larger the pool, the higher the BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating of the heater needed.

Remember, you cannot oversize a heater! You want to avoid buying a heater that is too small- it will run continuously and never get your pool to temperature, which isn't ideal.

Pool Size and Heater BTUs

These ranges are rough, and you should check each manufacturer's recommendations as well. The ranges for a product can vary based on altitude, climate, sun exposure of the pool and home, and more.

3. Pool Heater Efficiency and Use

You want a heater that is not only effective but also cost-efficient in the long term. While gas heaters can quickly heat your pool, their operational costs are generally higher than those of electric heat pumps or solar heaters.

Electric heat pumps are known for their energy efficiency. Solar heaters are the most energy-efficient option in terms of operating costs, as they rely entirely on solar energy. However, their effectiveness can depend on local weather conditions, particularly in areas with limited sunlight during the colder months.

In general:

• Warmer climates: Solar heaters or heat pumps are often the most cost-effective and sustainable solutions.

• Colder climates: Gas heaters or larger heat pumps may be necessary to heat your pool efficiently throughout the year.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Pool Heater for Your Needs

By evaluating the factors mentioned in this guide and aligning them with your specific needs, you can confidently select the best pool heater to enjoy your pool year-round. Whether you're looking for quality, durability, or energy savings, investing in the right heater will provide comfort and enhance your swimming experience for years to come.

Let us know if you have any further questions or would like recommendations on specific models. Happy swimming!