How To Choose A Pool Heater

If you want to do one thing to increase how much time your family spends in the pool, adding a pool heater to your equipment system is probably the answer.  We often ask, "You wouldn't swim in a dirty pool, why are you swimming in a cold one?" In this area, a heater should probably be a standard piece of equipment on every pool if you actually want to use the pool for more than a few weeks each season.

Gas heaters are available in natural or propane models. One advantage to a gas heater is that it is quick. If you only want to heat your pool periodically-- say for just the weekend-- a gas heater will allow you to do this. Gas heaters are available in a variety of sizes (from 100,000 BTUs to 250,000 BTUs) and the larger the heater the quicker the pool will heat.

If, however, you like to use your pool every day-- say for daily exercise-- an electric heat pump is the most efficient way to maintain your pool at a constant temperature all season long by slowly taking warm air and transferring it to the swimming pool water. Though more expensive to purchase initially than a gas heater, an electric heat pump can maintain your pool at a constant temperature for significantly less than natural gas or propane gas.

After your new heater has been installed onto your filter system, you will need to have the gas or electric service hooked up to the unit by a certified gas plumber, your propane company or an electrician.

No matter what type of heater you choose, you will want to use a solar blanket to reduce your energy costs. This is especially important in the evenings when cooler air temperatures and warmer water temperatures result in evaporation that contributes to heat loss.

Remember, when you invest in a pool heater, you are creating more opportunities for those treasured poolside family memories of the future.