Know Your Pool Equipment: Pool Heaters

Mar 21, 2022

As Originally Published On Pentair.Com

CHOOSE THE RIGHT POOL HEATER FOR YOUR POOL

Adding a pool heater allows you to extend your swimming season and control your pool water temperature for the perfect swimming experience. Below, you will find information regarding pool heating basics, the various types of pool heating technology and the questions you need to answer before determining the best pool heating option for your pool.

TYPES OF POOL HEATING

The heat source used to warm your water can vary since several pool heating options exist, such as gas heaters, heat pumps, and hybrid heating technology. Below you will find the three pillars of pool heating equipment to help you navigate which pool heating option best suits your lifestyle.

OPTION 1: GAS POOL HEATERS

Gas pool heaters use natural gas or propane to generate heat, which is an ideal choice if you live in an area with access to low-cost natural gas or propane fuel, high electricity costs, or you want your pool heated as fast as possible.

THE STRENGTHS:

Lower initial purchase price
Optimal performance in all climates
Fast heat-up times
Quiet operation
Remote control via pool automation

THE TRADE-OFFS:

Higher cost to operate
Consumes large amounts of gas
Lower energy efficiency compared to heat pumps

OPTION 2: POOL HEAT PUMP

Pool heat pumps use electricity to efficiently move heat from the air to your pool water but take longer to heat than a gas heater. This type of pool heating is a superior option if you live in an area with low electricity costs, moderate climate, or do not have access to natural gas or propane.

THE STRENGTHS:

Highly energy efficient; lower operational cost
Longer service life and dependable operation
Remote control via pool automation

THE TRADE-OFFS:

Heating performance is related to air temperature and humidity
Higher initial purchase price
The sound level may be higher than a gas heater