Swimming Pool Heater Facts

Pool heaters can make your pool more comfortable.

Pool heaters can make your pool more comfortable.

Unless you live in an area where it's warm year round, there will probably be times when your pool is too cold to enjoy. A swimming pool heater is a great way to control the temperature of your pool and can extend the number of days it can be used each year. Pool heaters operate on gas, electricity or solar power and are offered in a variety of sizes and models.


Solar heater collectors can be mounted on the roof.

The swimming pool pump circulates cold water from the pool into the heating system. The water first passes through a filter and then into a heating chamber. As water passes through the chamber, heat is extracted from the heat source and transferred to the water. The heated water is then returned to the pool.


Gas pool heaters can heat water quickly.

Gas heaters operate on either propane or natural gas, which is burned in a heating chamber. Pool water is heated as it comes into contact with this chamber. A heat pump uses electricity to capture heat from the outside air and transfer it to the cold water. Solar pool heaters circulate water through collectors that use the sun as a source of heat.


Solar heaters can also be run at night to cool pool water.

Gas pool heaters are the most popular but, depending on your location and use, they may not be the most cost efficient when compared to electric or solar units. Electric heat pump pool heaters are better suited for use when the outside air temperature is above 50 degrees. The cooler the outside air temperature, the more energy they require. Solar pool heaters offer low annual operating costs, but may only be able to heat pool water to approximately 85 degrees.


Warranty claims may require adherence to the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines.

With proper installation and maintenance, gas pool heaters should last approximately five or more years. Electric heat pumps can have a lifespan of more than 10 years. A properly maintained solar pool heating system should work for up to 20 years. The actual lifespan of any swimming pool heater can be reduced by exposure to harsh weather conditions, inconsistent power supply, overuse or improper operation. Manufacturers typically provide a guide to proper operation and maintenance with each unit.

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