This article covers how a pool heater works. It aims to help you understand its performance before finalizing your purchasing decision.
I do not know about you, but I like to swim all year long. I also enjoy throwing pool parties every once in a while. However, the cold weather during the fall and winter makes these things almost impossible.
Fortunately, I came across pool heaters. These handy pieces of pool equipment can increase the water temperature. They can provide a more comfortable swimming experience in cold weather.
It is essential to understand how pool heaters work and learn about their different types before purchasing one. Doing so can help you buy the best model for your swimming pool.
Below, I will discuss everything about pool heaters, from how they operate to their pros and cons.
Without any further ado, let us get on with the article!
How Do Pool Heaters Operate?
Pool heaters can effectively heat your pool, so you can enjoy an extended swimming season. They are available in different types based on their power source. These include electric, gas, and solar heaters. Understanding how each one operates is the first step in owning a pool heater.
Electric Pool Heater
An electric pool heater, also known as a heat pump, runs on electricity. It has a built-in fan that pulls in outside air inside the unit. Then, it transfers this outdoor air to an evaporator air coil.
This evaporator coil holds a chemical in liquid form (called a liquid refrigerant) that collects heat from surrounding air and which then converts to higher temperature gas. The high temperature gas moves through the compressor within the electric heater, where it further increases the temperature.
Finally, the hot gas passes heat into the pool water via the heat exchanger. Subsequently, the warm water flows back into the pool and increases the overall water temperature.
Overall, electric pool heaters gradually heat the pool without producing harmful emissions. They work efficiently as long as the outdoor temperature remains between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything lower than that can affect how they warm your pool since they rely on outside air. As such, electric pool heaters are ideal for pool owners living in areas with warm to humid climates.
Gas Pool Heater
A gas pool heater uses either natural gas or liquid propane to heat the pool, hence its name. It features a combustion chamber where it burns gas. At the same time, it has built-in copper coils where the swimming pool water flows.
As the gas ignites in the combustion chamber, it effectively heats the copper piping that holds the water. It eventually increases the water temperature. Once it reaches the ideal temperature, the warm water returns back to the pool and heats it. The whole process goes on until the entire pool is warm enough to swim in.
Gas pool heaters can increase the pool water temperature in just a few hours compared to electric heaters, which might take up to one to two days. However, burning gas creates exhaust containing harmful emissions. This exhaust leaves the combustion chamber through a duct. Nevertheless, gas pool heaters are suitable for those who use their pool infrequently during the winter.
Solar Pool Heater
A solar pool heater takes advantage of the sun to heat the pool water. It uses solar thermal panels, which are placed on your roof or on the ground. These panels harness the sun’s radiant heat and increase the water temperature.
Meanwhile, the water flows through the dozens of small diameter tubes connected to the solar panels. As it moves through the panels, the cold pool water becomes warm and returns to the pool. The heating process continues as long as the panel temperature is hotter than the water temperature.
Solar pool heaters do not rely on electricity or gas, making them an eco-friendly pool heating solution. They are suitable for areas that enjoy an abundant amount of sunshine every year. Without enough sunlight, these swimming pool heaters cannot work effectively.
What Are the Benefits of a Pool Heater?
Each type of pool heater works in different ways. Hence, it also has varying features and benefits. Below are the advantages of using each kind of pool heating device.
Electric Pool Heater
Electric pool heaters do not produce heat. Instead, they simply transfer heat by taking advantage of outside air. Hence, these heat pumps do not create toxic emissions that harm the environment.
Another benefit of an electric pool heater is its low operating costs. It does not rely on gas to heat your pool. Thus, it is ideal for long-term heating use.
Moreover, electric heaters have a durable construction. They feature fewer moving parts, which do not quickly deteriorate.
Finally, an electric swimming pool heater requires minimal maintenance.
Gas Pool Heater
A gas pool heater burns liquid propane or natural gas. It can heat your swimming pool in just a matter of hours. It is ideal for pool owners who like on-demand heat.
Additionally, gas pool heaters operate independently of outdoor temperatures. They can efficiently heat your swimming pool when it is cold outside. They ultimately allow year-round swimming.
Another benefit of using a gas heater is its low upfront cost. This type of pool heater is readily available and suitable for those who cannot afford expensive heaters.
Finally, gas heaters ensure quiet operation, unlike other types of pool heaters.
Solar Pool Heater
Using solar pool heating allows you to enjoy several benefits.
First, the cost of operating solar pool heaters is almost free. Once the set-up is complete, heating your pool will not cost you a cent since you will harness the power of the sun.
Another benefit of a solar pool heater is the fact that it is eco-friendly. It does not use gas or electricity, so it does not negatively impact the environment.
Furthermore, solar pool heating systems can last you for several years. They do not include any internal wiring or moving parts, which can deteriorate over time.
Finally, solar pool heaters are relatively easy to install. Some units even allow DIY installation to prevent hiring a professional.
What Are the Disadvantages of a Pool Heater?
Pool heaters have their fair share of cons. It is essential to know these disadvantages before buying the best pool heater. Doing so can help you weigh your options and choose the right heating device for your needs.
Electric Pool Heater
Electric pool heaters or heat pumps rely on outdoor air to heat the pool. They only work efficiently if the outside temperature does not go lower than 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, they are not suitable for areas with freezing weather.
Additionally, an electric pool heater has a high upfront cost. It is among the most expensive pool heating devices.
Finally, an electric heating system takes a long time to increase the pool’s water temperature. It is not the best option for pool owners looking for instant heating.
Gas Pool Heater
A gas heater is the least efficient type amongs all pool heaters. It is also the most expensive pool heater to operate since it requires natural gas or propane.
Gas pool heaters also emit carbon dioxide. They can negatively impact the environment.
Furthermore, a gas heating system has a shorter lifespan compared to electric and solar pool heaters. At the same time, it requires occasional maintenance due to its several moving components.
Finally, gas pool heaters can be difficult to install. For instance, natural gas heaters need you to install a dedicated gas line to operate.
Solar Pool Heater
Solar pool heaters primarily depend on the sun. Thus, they are only effective when the panels are exposed to direct sunlight. They are less effective during a cloudy day and do not work at night.
Additionally, a solar pool heater slowly heats up the pool. Depending on the amount of sunlight, it can take around a day or two to increase the water temperature.
While a solar pool heater is easy to install, it takes up a lot of space. It requires a large amount of surface area to place the solar panels. Thus, this type of pool heater might not be suitable for smaller homes.
Finally, pool owners who care about the appearance of their backyard might also find solar panels unattractive. These have an inconspicuous appearance that might ruin the aesthetic of your home. But at the end of the day, it is a matter of personal preference.
What Is the Best Heater for a Swimming Pool?
The best type of heater for your swimming pool will depend on several factors. These include your needs, how often you will use your pool, the type of climate you live in, and your budget, among other considerations.
An electric pool heater or a heat pump is suitable for pool owners who live in a warm climate. It offers comfortable swimming throughout the year as long as you do not mind the slow heating time. It is also an eco-friendly pool heating solution. However, all these benefits come at a high price.
Those who rarely use their swimming pool and live in a colder climate can consider using a gas heater. This type of pool heater can quickly increase water temperature, which is ideal for those who like on-demand heat. It is also widely available, making it the most affordable heater option for swimming pools. There are still a few downsides, though. These include its harmful emissions and relatively shorter lifespan.
Finally, solar pool heaters are perfect for homeowners who enjoy a lot of direct sunshine. These swimming pool heaters cost almost nothing to operate. They also do not harm the environment. However, they depend on the sun to heat the pool. So without sufficient sunshine, they are not as effective.
Conclusion
A pool heater is a handy pool equipment for users who want to enjoy swimming year-round. It is available in many options and styles to suit your unique needs. Understanding the different types of pool heaters and how they work is essential before buying one.
If you find this article informative, feel free to share it with other pool users!
