Pool heaters are used to keep your pool warm during the cold winter season. Here, I have reviewed the best pool heaters that provide reliable and efficient performance for you.
Top picks
In-depth reviews
1. Solar Pool Heaters
One of the most affordable options for pool heating is solar powered heaters. Solar panels are installed on your roof or next to your pool, where they collect the sun's energy, and then the pump circulates the water through the solar panels, heating it up as a result. This is a highly-efficient option that can save you a considerable amount of money on your energy bills.
Solar pool heaters work best in areas where the sun shines the most frequently. They are also ideal for people who are environmentally-conscious, as they use a completely renewable energy source. The only downside is that this type of pool heater only works during daylight hours, which means the water may not be as warm at night.
Pros:
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They are environmentally friendly and use renewable energy.
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They have a low cost of operation and can help homeowners save money on energy bills.
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They extend the swimming season by keeping the pool warm during sunny days.
Cons:
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They are dependent on sunlight, which can limit their efficiency on cloudy days.
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They have a relatively low heat output compared to gas or electric heaters.
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They are typically more expensive to install than other pool heater options.
2. Gas Pool Heaters
Gas pool heaters are another popular option when it comes to pool heating. They operate using natural gas or propane, which is burned in a combustion chamber to heat the water. Gas-powered heaters offer a fast way to heat your pool, making them perfect for those unexpected cold snaps in the summer. They can also be used year-round, which makes them ideal for people who want to maximize their pool time.
Gas heaters are, however, less efficient than solar-powered or heat pump pool heaters, so they can end up costing you more in the long run. They are also not very environmentally-friendly as they release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Pros:
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They can heat the pool quickly and efficiently, making them ideal for sudden cold snaps or unexpected cold weather.
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They work well for year-round swimming.
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They offer a consistent heat output that can be adjusted easily.
Cons:
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They are not environmentally friendly and emit greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
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They have a higher cost of operation and can be expensive to maintain.
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They have less energy efficiency than other pool heater options.
3. Heat Pump Pool Heaters
Heat Pump Pool Heaters are highly efficient pool heaters that use electricity to transfer heat, rather than generating heat themselves. They work by extracting heat from the air and then transferring that heat to the water. While heat pump systems use electricity, they still offer considerable savings compared to gas heaters because they move rather than generate heat.
Heat pump pool heaters are the best option for larger pools that require a lot of energy to heat. They are also incredibly environmentally-friendly since they do not release harmful gases into the atmosphere. They can take longer to heat your pool than a gas heater, but once the pool is up to temperature, it is easy to maintain that desired heating level.
Pros:
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They are highly efficient, with energy savings anywhere between 50% – 80% compared to gas pool heaters.
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They are environmentally friendly and do not emit greenhouse gases.
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They offer consistent heat output and are cost-effective in the long run.
Cons:
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They can take longer to heat the pool than gas pool heaters.
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They may require additional service to maintain their efficiency.
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They can be more expensive to purchase initially than other pool heating options.
4. Electric Pool Heaters
Electric pool heaters are a viable option for people who want to avoid gas heaters and have small to medium sized pools. They use electricity to heat the water just like a heat pump pool heater but have their mechanism of heat generation.
The running cost of electric pool heaters can be quite high due to the high cost of electricity. This option can also take longer to heat your pool; however, the heater can be placed inside or outside of the pool thanks to its compact design.
Pros:
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They offer a compact design and can be used in small or medium-sized pools.
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They have no emissions, making them environmentally friendly.
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They are easy to install and operate, with no gas lines or fuel requirements.
Cons:
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They are less efficient than heat pump pool heaters and may be more expensive to operate.
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They require higher electrical voltage than other pool heaters, which can increase the cost of installation.
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They can be slower to heat the pool compared to gas pool heaters.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to heat a pool with a pool heater?
A: The length of time it takes a pool heater to heat a pool depends on the specific heater and pool size. Gas pool heaters can take anywhere from 8-12 hours to get a pool to temperature, while solar pool heaters may take several days. Heat pump pool heaters typically take around 24-48 hours to heat a pool to temperature.
Q: Which type of pool heater is easiest to maintain?
A: Solar pool heaters require the least maintenance since they rely on natural sunlight. Gas pool heaters and electric pool heaters require regular maintenance and checks to ensure that they are working efficiently. Heat pump pool heaters require maintenance on the compressor and fan to ensure optimal efficiency.
Q: Can a pool heater be used year-round?
A: Gas pool heaters and electric pool heaters can be used year-round, while solar pool heaters and heat pump pool heaters may not be as efficient during the winter and may require additional heating or a booster heater to maintain temperature.
Conclusion
When it comes to the best pool heater for your needs, there is no one correct choice. The best option depends on your budget and preferences. For people who prioritize eco-friendliness and want to save the most money in the long run, solar-powered heaters and heat pump pool heaters are their best bet. At the same time, gas heaters and electric heaters are suitable for people who want a more immediate heating system that is ideal for colder months or small/medium-sized pools.
It is essential to pick the pool heater type that aligns with your budget and the size of the pool to get the optimal performance for your specific requirements.
