Are you torn choosing between a gas vs electric pool heater? The decision isn’t always easy. Gas almost always heats a pool faster, but speed isn’t the only consideration. This article explains how to think about the differences between these two pool heating devices. Continue reading to learn which one is best for your needs.
As an avid swimmer, I enjoy being in the pool even in the off-season when outside weather conditions aren’t perfect. But, unlike some who enjoy polar bear plunges, swimming in water that’s cold is just not for me. Plus, cold water actually isn’t safe if you’re in it for an extended period.
Fortunately, swimming pool heaters can extend the season, but they aren’t all created equal. These handy pieces of pool equipment can increase the water temperature to ensure comfort – but there is an energy cost to do so.
Below, I will discuss the two main types of pool heaters—gas and electric—to help you make a wise purchasing decision. I will include their differences and pros and cons for easier comparison.
Finally, I will answer some of your questions about pool heaters.
How Gas Pool Heaters Work
Gas pool heaters burn gas to generate heat. This heat increases the swimming pool’s water temperature. It works similarly to a boiler or water heater commonly found in your home.
Gas heaters are available in two types—natural gas and propane.
Natural gas pool heaters typically require you to install a dedicated gas line. While they are a bit more complicated to install up front, they are a permanent heating solution. These can benefit you for many years.
Meanwhile, propane heaters use refillable tanks. It’s a similar concept to those you use with a gas grill but usually the tank is much larger because of the energy needed to heat a pool. They are less expensive than natural gas heaters. However, they do require regular refilling for continued use.
How Electric Pool Heaters Work
An electric pool heater has built-in heating coils that run on electricity. These heating coils warm the swimming pool water. The more coils the heater has, the more hot water it can return back to the pool.
This type of pool heater is less expensive to operate in the long run compared to a gas pool heater. It also does not produce toxic emissions, making it an eco-friendly heating solution. If you can hook it up to solar, it’s even better for the environment.
However, electric pool heaters work more slowly in heating your above-ground or inground pool. They keep your pool warmer over the longer term and are not ideal for those who want on-demand heat.
Gas vs. Electric Pool Heater: A Detailed Comparison
Gas and electric pool heaters can effectively heat your swimming pool. However, they work in different ways to achieve your desired water temperature.
Below is a detailed comparison of both pool heaters. This section covers their energy efficiency, initial cost, operational cost, and ease of installation.
Efficiency vs. Heating Speed Tradeoff
A gas heater creates heat by burning fuel. It is not the most energy-efficient way of heating your swimming pool. That is because it wastes a large amount of gas, ultimately producing exhaust that does have some toxic chemicals, you don’t want to hang out right next to it.
With that said, a gas pool heater can increase your pool’s water temperature in just a few hours. It is ideal for warming large pools in a short amount of time. It can also very effectively extend your swimming season if you are willing to pay for the gas required to do so.
On the other hand, a heat pump electric pool heater takes advantage of the surrounding outdoor air to warm the pool. It is a more energy-efficient heating solution for pool owners living in a warm climate. And if you can connect it to solar power it’s even better.
However, an electric heater is less efficient in colder weather. It also takes a long time to increase the water temperature compared to a gas heater.
Initial Cost
Gas pool heaters are less expensive than electric heaters. That is because they are widely available on the market. They typically range from $200 to $2,000, with large pool heaters costing more.
Meanwhile, an electric pool heater is more expensive upfront because it is less common than a gas heater unit. It has an average cost of $1,000 to $3,000.
Operational Cost
Although a gas pool heater has a low upfront cost, it is usually expensive to operate in the long run. It depends on the prices of natural gas and propane, which can fluctuate over time. The average operating cost of gas pool heaters is around $200 to $400 per month.
In contrast, running an electric pool heater tends to be cheaper in the long term. It does not rely on gas to produce heat. Most units, especially heat pumps, only run on little electricity. They are also more reliable than gas pool heating devices. Overall, electric heaters can cost an average of $100 to $200 a month to operate.
Ease of Installation
As previously mentioned, natural gas pool heaters require a gas line and a pump. Meanwhile, propane units need a propane tank to heat the pool. Regardless of the type of your pool heater, it is best to hire a professional. Allow this expert to put up the gas line for your heating device. Then, you can opt to connect the unit to the gas source on your own.
On the other hand, electric pool heaters are more complicated to install due to their intricate parts. They require certified electricians to install a dedicated power line and connect your unit.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Gas Pool Heaters?
A gas pool heating device has several advantages and disadvantages. Read on to learn if it meets your heating needs.
Pros
- A low initial cost
- It only takes a few hours to increase the pool’s water temperature
- It can extend the swimming season, even when your pool is located in cold climates
- It is available in either propane or natural gas option
- It is easy to install
Cons
- It produces toxic emissions that can harm the environment
- It tends to be expensive to operate in the long run
- The natural gas heater requires you to install a separate gas line
What Are the Pros and Cons of Electric Pool Heaters?
Below are the benefits and drawbacks of using electric heaters for your swimming pool.
Pros
- It is a permanent heating solution that can last you for several years
- It uses existing air to warm your swimming pool
- This eco-friendly heater does not produce toxic emissions
- It is cheap to run in the long term
- It does not require gas lines or tanks
Cons
- It has a high upfront and installation cost
- It takes a long time to heat up the entire swimming pool
- It is less efficient if the outside temperature is cold
When Is the Best Time To Use a Gas Pool Heater?
A gas pool heater quickly increases the pool’s temperature. The best time to use this heating device is when the outside temperature is relatively cold. It can run either during the day or at night to keep your swimming pool warm during the off-season.
Overall, a gas pool heater is ideal if you want to keep the pool open year-round. Otherwise, an electric heater might be better for your needs and cost you significantly less.
When Is the Best Time To Use an Electric Pool Heater?
The ideal time to operate an electric pool heater is during the day in the spring or fall when the temperature is warmer. It can also run throughout the night if you want the water warm enough in the morning. It can effectively maintain the pool temperature over time.
However, electric pool heaters do not allow year-round use. They also slowly heat up the swimming pool, which is not ideal during the winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pool heater is best?
The best type of pool heater will depend on several factors. These include your needs, preferences, budget, how long you intend to use the heater, and where you live, among other considerations.
A gas pool heater might favor those who like on-demand heat year-round. It can quickly heat the swimming pool, which is ideal for winter use. This type of heater is also suitable for pool owners who do not have enough money to spend on an expensive electric unit or a heat pump. However, those who are environmentally conscious might want to stay away from gas heaters due to their toxic emissions.
Meanwhile, an electric pool heater is best for pool owners who do not mind the slow heating time as long as they enjoy consistent warm water temperatures. It is also durable and requires less maintenance to last you for years to come. Furthermore, it is an eco-friendly pool heating solution. However, all these benefits come at a high price tag.
What is the life expectancy of pool heaters?
Both gas and electric pool heaters can last you for many years as long as you properly maintain them. The former has an average lifespan of seven to eight years, while the latter can last for more than a decade with proper care and repairs.
Can I use a pool heater overnight?
Yes, you can keep the pool heater running throughout the night. However, make sure the temperature change from night to day is not huge. It is also best to use a pool cover to maintain the heat. If not, you will end up spending a lot of money on heating the swimming pool.
Conclusion
A pool heater is one of the best ways to extend the swimming season. It can increase the pool’s water temperature to ensure a comfortable swimming experience. It is also available in two common types—gas and electric. Each one has its pros and cons, so it is up to you to choose the unit that best suits your needs.
I hope this article helped you gain insight into the differences between gas and electric heaters. Share it with your family and friends if you find it informative.
