Are Pool Heaters Worth It?

Solar pool heaters can be expensive – anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 – and then there’s the annual cost of fuel or electricity to run the heater. Without a heater, your pool season might be limited to 2-4 months, even in warmer seasons.

Many people base the choice of pool heaters on many factors, such as local climate, temperature preference, and budget.

However it’s vital to note that, in most areas, your pool temperature may only reach 75 degrees in the warmest months. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, pool temperatures usually range from 78 to 82 degrees, and kids and the elderly may need a temperature of at least 80 degrees.

Common Types of Pool Heaters

There are three forms of pool heaters: gas, heat pump (electric) and solar.

• Gas-fired Pool Heaters heat a pool quickly, but they’re expensive to operate because of fuel costs. Gas Heaters are best for pools that are not used regularly. Generally, they’re turned on when the pool is going to be used and turned off afterward.
• Heat pumps depend on electricity to heat the pool. They’re more expensive upfront as compared to gas heaters but much cheaper to operate. These models are not very efficient if the air temperature dips below 50 degrees, but that’s not usually an issue since pools are most often used in warmer weather.
• Solar Pool heaters depend on the sun for warmth. They’re often the same in price to gas heaters and heat pumps, but the operating costs of solar heaters are much lower.

Heaters come in different sizes and efficiencies, so check with your pool contractor or a local expert to find out which models will work for you. The greater the size and efficiency, the more expensive the pool heater will be.

Pool Heater Annual Operating Costs

Annual operating costs are based on the type of heater, local energy rates, the size of the pool, the temperature you maintain, local climate, the length of the swimming season, and more. This energy department guide provides estimates of what you can expect to pay for gas heat in South Florida. Yearly costs range from $100 to $3,600.

Contrary to what you might think, it’s not always cheaper to heat a pool in warmer climates since the swimming season is much longer than colder climates.

Resources and References:

• U.S. Department of Energy
• Solar Water Heating