If you're interested in extending your pool season, or perhaps just want to keep your pool at a comfortable temperature, investing in a pool heater for your above ground pool is a great idea. Pool heaters for above ground pools are designed to heat water in pools that are not fully integrated into the ground. In this buying guide, we will discuss the different types of pool heaters, their features, benefits, and more to help you in choosing the right one.
Types of Pool Heaters1. Gas Heaters
Gas powered heaters are a popular option for homeowners that provide a higher heating output and can heat a pool quickly. They are powered by natural gas or propane, and this fuel source burns inside the combustion chamber to create heat. It is important to consider the availability and cost of fuel when using gas heaters.
2. Electric Heaters
Electric pool heaters are efficient, easy to install, and operate quietly. Electric pool heaters use electricity to generate heat and have a lower operating cost than gas heaters. They also have a lower output capacity and may take longer to heat up the pool.
3. Heat Pumps
Heat pumps use electricity to capture heat from the ambient air and transfer it to the water. They are highly energy efficient, and they produce a consistent pool temperature, making them an ideal option for those who use the pool for exercise or therapy. Heat pumps also operate at a lower noise level, and they don't rely on the burning of fossil fuels.
Pool Heater Size
The size of the pool heater you need depends on your pool's size/volume, the desired pool temperature, and the outdoor temperature. A general rule of thumb, you want 1 BTU output per gallon of water in your pool.
For example, if you have a 20,000-gallon pool, your desired pool temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and you live in an area where the average temperature in the coldest month is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, you will need a pool heater with at least a 400,000 BTU output (20,000 x 30 heating degree days = 600,000 BTUs needed divided by 1.5 is 400,000 BTUs).
Note that the type of pool heater you choose will affect the BTU output. Gas heaters typically have higher BTU outputs, while heat pumps can have lower BTU outputs but higher energy efficiency.
Pool Heater Efficiency
The efficiency of a pool heater is important for energy savings and reducing the operating cost of your pool heater. Pool heaters have an efficiency rating called the coefficient of performance (COP) or thermal efficiency. This rating measures how effectively the heater converts energy into heat.
A higher COP rating (or thermal efficiency) means that the pool heater is more energy-efficient and cheaper to run. For electric heaters, they tend to have higher COP ratings than gas heaters. Heat pumps are also particularly efficient as they can provide 3-6 times the energy used.
Pool Heater Installation
When it comes to installation, gas heaters require a connection to a gas line or propane tank, while electric heaters require a power source. And heat pumps require a dedicated electrical circuit. For all types of pool heaters, you will need to consider where it will be installed in your yard, and for gas heaters, you will need to factor in venting requirements.
Cost of Pool Heaters
The cost of purchasing and running a pool heater will ultimately depend on the type, size, and efficiency rating. Gas heaters are generally the most expensive to purchase but cost less to operate than electric heaters. Electric heaters offer lower upfront costs but can have higher operating costs than gas heaters. Heat pumps offer the best energy efficiency but have higher upfront costs than electric and gas heaters.
Maintenance
All pool heaters require some level of maintenance. Gas heaters need regular cleaning and maintenance of the gas burners, valves, and heat exchanger. Electric heaters require regular cleaning of mineral buildup in the heating elements and connections and circuit breakers checked periodically. Heat pumps require the least maintenance, but still require regular cleaning of the air filters and heat exchanger.
Conclusion
When choosing a pool heater for your above ground pool, consider the size of your pool, the type of pool heater, efficiency rating, installation requirements, cost, and level of maintenance needed. With the right type and size of pool heater, you can extend your pool season and enjoy using your pool even during cooler months.
