How Are Most Swimming Pools Usually Heated?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s get straight into it! Swimming pools are usually heated using gas or electric heaters. The type of heater depends on the size of the pool and the amount of water in it. Gas heaters burn natural gas, propane or oil to generate heat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Electric heaters run off electricity. Both types use an electrical power cord to connect them to a source of AC current. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now that we have established how they are heated, let’s look at pool heaters in closer detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"swimming](\"https:\/\/allaboutpools.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/swimming-pool-heaters.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTypes Of Swimming Pool Heaters<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThere are a few different types of swimming pool heaters you should be aware of. Let\u2019s take a look at them in closer detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Electric Heaters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Electric heaters use electricity to heat a pool. As they provide the most heat for the least amount of energy used, they are used primarily for small indoor as well as outdoor swimming pools. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
They allow for more precise temperature control than do gas heaters, but require more frequent maintenance because chlorine can corrode the heating elements if not properly maintained. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
An electric heater has no moving parts that must be replaced when damaged by corrosion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Gas Heaters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
These are the primary form of pool heating found in larger residential pools (up to 10,000 gallons) and commercial pools with depths greater than 12 feet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A water pump circulates the pool water through piping containing several gas-fired heat exchangers, located at the bottom of the pool, which transfers heat from the circulating water into the air surrounding the pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Heat is then transferred back to the water as needed to maintain the desired temperature. Most commercial pools have one main gas heater, while many homeowners install two smaller units, each for a different side of their pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
One unit may remain idle during part of the day when the pool is empty and only heats a portion of the pool. In large pools, two separate systems serve multiple zones within the pool to minimize wasted heat loss to the exterior environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Solar Pool Heater System: Solar panels mounted above the roof of the dwelling house supply solar heat to the heating system. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the sun moves across the sky during its daily cycle, it heats the outer surface of the heat storage tank until it reaches a maximum temperature. When the sun sets, the heat stored in the tank gradually dissipates back into the atmosphere. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This type of pool heating system typically uses a gas-fired boiler that heats a secondary heat transfer fluid such as hot water. The heated water transfers its heat to the pool after passing through an expansion tank. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A common problem is that the temperature of the water being circulated by the pump will decrease due to evaporation losses as soon as the liquid enters the evaporative cooler. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For this reason, a drain valve should be installed on the lowest point of the coil, so that any water lost by dripping does not return directly to the pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another problem with solar pool heating systems is that they are expensive to buy and operate; often costing around $20,000-$30,000 and needing 2 acres of land to accommodate the solar panel array. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This type of pool heater works best in remote areas where there is sunlight for 7 months of the year. It also requires a high level of skill to design and install the equipment correctly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Solar Heaters & Other Methods<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other pool heating methods include solar pool covers or solar blankets<\/a>, underground piping, electrical systems, and propane tanks. <\/p>\n\n\n\nUnderground piping is relatively simple but costly. Electrical systems are highly reliable but require constant monitoring and maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Propane tanks are easy to install but dangerous to store and transport. Additionally, these systems need special permits in some municipalities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Therefore, none of these options offer total freedom, simplicity, or safety, nor do they provide a wide range of operating temperatures over 24 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Solar heating options are often one of the best options when it comes to finding a heater for an above ground pool<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBenefits Of Swimming Pool Heaters<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n- They provide free energy during the swimming season.<\/li>
- They do not require any maintenance or electricity.<\/li>
- They increase the value of your home if you have an inground pool<\/a>.<\/li>
- Electric power is the most common type of energy used by swimming pools. It heats water very fast but requires more maintenance than other options.<\/li>
- Natural gas is another popular choice for heating pools because it heats them faster than electricity and doesn’t require any maintenance. Both types of systems work well for pools that aren’t used often.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
How Does A Swimming Pool Heat Pump Work?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"How](\"https:\/\/allaboutpools.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/How-Does-A-Swimming-Pool-Heat-Pump-Work-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nA typical pool heat pump system uses a circulation pump to circulate the water around the pool. The pump sucks up the water from the bottom of the pool and then pushes it back down into the pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The pump also keeps the water moving by pushing it around the sides of the pool. The pump does this using a motor that spins an impeller inside the pump. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the water moves through the pump, it picks up heat from the surrounding environment. This causes the water to become hotter than normal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When the water reaches the top of the pump, it goes back down to the bottom of the pool. The water that comes out of the pump is warmer than when it went in. Read our full post on how a pool heat pump works<\/a> for a deeper dive!<\/p>\n\n\n\nEfficiency Of Swimming Pool Heat Pumps<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nHigher efficiency means lower energy costs. Scroll compressors are used in heat pumps, but they are more expensive than reciprocating compressors because they require more maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Heat pumps are very efficient. They use less energy than other types of heating systems. However, they do cost more upfront.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You should also consider how big your pool is. A bigger pool means a larger heat pump. This will increase the price of the unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pool heaters are sized based on the surface area of the swimming pool and the difference between pool and ambient temperature. Wind speed affects how much energy is needed to heat the water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Humidity level affects how much heat is required to maintain the desired temperature range. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cooler nighttime temperatures mean less heat is needed to warm the water. A standard-sized pool requires about 10-15% more heating power than a smaller pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, a 75,000 BTU pool needs about 8.7 hp and a 100,000 BTU pool requires 12.6 hp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To heat a swimming pool, you need an amount of energy equal to the area of the pool times the difference between your desired water temperature and the water temperature multiplied by 60.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Heat pump efficiency is measured by the coefficient of thermal performance (CTP), or COP. CTP ranges from 4.0 to 6.5, which translates into efficiency of 400%-600%. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For every unit of electricity used to run the compres\ufeff\u7280\u5229\u58eb<\/a>\n<\/span>sor, you’ll get about four units of heat output. <\/p>\n\n\n\nTemperature Differences Across The U.S That Affect Pool Heating<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s take a look at different states in the US and how the temperatures differ! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Miami, the temperature drops dramatically during the winter months. During the summer, the temperature rises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Phoenix, the temperature falls significantly during the coldest part of the year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Dallas, the temperature remains relatively constant throughout the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Atlanta, the temperature drops during the coldest time of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Los Angeles, the temperature remains relatively stable throughout the year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Kansas City, the temperature drops during the winter months. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In New York, the temperature drops dramatically throughout the entire year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chicago has the highest cost per square foot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Denver is the cheapest. Using a heat pump saves money over time because it uses less electricity than other types of pool heaters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"heated](\"https:\/\/allaboutpools.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/heated-pool-inside-1024x768.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nInstallation And Maintenance Of Your Swimming Pool Heater<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nProper installation and maintenance of your pool heater can optimize its energy efficiency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s best if you hire a qualified pool professional to install the heater, especially its electric hook-up, and to do complex maintenance or repair tasks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTypes Of Swimming Pool Heaters<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThere are a few different types of swimming pool heaters you should be aware of. Let\u2019s take a look at them in closer detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Electric Heaters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Electric heaters use electricity to heat a pool. As they provide the most heat for the least amount of energy used, they are used primarily for small indoor as well as outdoor swimming pools. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
They allow for more precise temperature control than do gas heaters, but require more frequent maintenance because chlorine can corrode the heating elements if not properly maintained. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
An electric heater has no moving parts that must be replaced when damaged by corrosion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Gas Heaters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
These are the primary form of pool heating found in larger residential pools (up to 10,000 gallons) and commercial pools with depths greater than 12 feet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A water pump circulates the pool water through piping containing several gas-fired heat exchangers, located at the bottom of the pool, which transfers heat from the circulating water into the air surrounding the pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Heat is then transferred back to the water as needed to maintain the desired temperature. Most commercial pools have one main gas heater, while many homeowners install two smaller units, each for a different side of their pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
One unit may remain idle during part of the day when the pool is empty and only heats a portion of the pool. In large pools, two separate systems serve multiple zones within the pool to minimize wasted heat loss to the exterior environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Solar Pool Heater System: Solar panels mounted above the roof of the dwelling house supply solar heat to the heating system. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the sun moves across the sky during its daily cycle, it heats the outer surface of the heat storage tank until it reaches a maximum temperature. When the sun sets, the heat stored in the tank gradually dissipates back into the atmosphere. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This type of pool heating system typically uses a gas-fired boiler that heats a secondary heat transfer fluid such as hot water. The heated water transfers its heat to the pool after passing through an expansion tank. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A common problem is that the temperature of the water being circulated by the pump will decrease due to evaporation losses as soon as the liquid enters the evaporative cooler. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For this reason, a drain valve should be installed on the lowest point of the coil, so that any water lost by dripping does not return directly to the pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another problem with solar pool heating systems is that they are expensive to buy and operate; often costing around $20,000-$30,000 and needing 2 acres of land to accommodate the solar panel array. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This type of pool heater works best in remote areas where there is sunlight for 7 months of the year. It also requires a high level of skill to design and install the equipment correctly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Solar Heaters & Other Methods<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other pool heating methods include solar pool covers or solar blankets<\/a>, underground piping, electrical systems, and propane tanks. <\/p>\n\n\n\nUnderground piping is relatively simple but costly. Electrical systems are highly reliable but require constant monitoring and maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Propane tanks are easy to install but dangerous to store and transport. Additionally, these systems need special permits in some municipalities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Therefore, none of these options offer total freedom, simplicity, or safety, nor do they provide a wide range of operating temperatures over 24 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Solar heating options are often one of the best options when it comes to finding a heater for an above ground pool<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBenefits Of Swimming Pool Heaters<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n- They provide free energy during the swimming season.<\/li>
- They do not require any maintenance or electricity.<\/li>
- They increase the value of your home if you have an inground pool<\/a>.<\/li>
- Electric power is the most common type of energy used by swimming pools. It heats water very fast but requires more maintenance than other options.<\/li>
- Natural gas is another popular choice for heating pools because it heats them faster than electricity and doesn’t require any maintenance. Both types of systems work well for pools that aren’t used often.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
How Does A Swimming Pool Heat Pump Work?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nA typical pool heat pump system uses a circulation pump to circulate the water around the pool. The pump sucks up the water from the bottom of the pool and then pushes it back down into the pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The pump also keeps the water moving by pushing it around the sides of the pool. The pump does this using a motor that spins an impeller inside the pump. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the water moves through the pump, it picks up heat from the surrounding environment. This causes the water to become hotter than normal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When the water reaches the top of the pump, it goes back down to the bottom of the pool. The water that comes out of the pump is warmer than when it went in. Read our full post on how a pool heat pump works<\/a> for a deeper dive!<\/p>\n\n\n\nEfficiency Of Swimming Pool Heat Pumps<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nHigher efficiency means lower energy costs. Scroll compressors are used in heat pumps, but they are more expensive than reciprocating compressors because they require more maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Heat pumps are very efficient. They use less energy than other types of heating systems. However, they do cost more upfront.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You should also consider how big your pool is. A bigger pool means a larger heat pump. This will increase the price of the unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pool heaters are sized based on the surface area of the swimming pool and the difference between pool and ambient temperature. Wind speed affects how much energy is needed to heat the water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Humidity level affects how much heat is required to maintain the desired temperature range. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cooler nighttime temperatures mean less heat is needed to warm the water. A standard-sized pool requires about 10-15% more heating power than a smaller pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, a 75,000 BTU pool needs about 8.7 hp and a 100,000 BTU pool requires 12.6 hp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To heat a swimming pool, you need an amount of energy equal to the area of the pool times the difference between your desired water temperature and the water temperature multiplied by 60.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Heat pump efficiency is measured by the coefficient of thermal performance (CTP), or COP. CTP ranges from 4.0 to 6.5, which translates into efficiency of 400%-600%. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For every unit of electricity used to run the compres\ufeff\u7280\u5229\u58eb<\/a>\n<\/span>sor, you’ll get about four units of heat output. <\/p>\n\n\n\nTemperature Differences Across The U.S That Affect Pool Heating<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s take a look at different states in the US and how the temperatures differ! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Miami, the temperature drops dramatically during the winter months. During the summer, the temperature rises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Phoenix, the temperature falls significantly during the coldest part of the year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Dallas, the temperature remains relatively constant throughout the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Atlanta, the temperature drops during the coldest time of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Los Angeles, the temperature remains relatively stable throughout the year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Kansas City, the temperature drops during the winter months. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In New York, the temperature drops dramatically throughout the entire year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chicago has the highest cost per square foot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Denver is the cheapest. Using a heat pump saves money over time because it uses less electricity than other types of pool heaters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nInstallation And Maintenance Of Your Swimming Pool Heater<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nProper installation and maintenance of your pool heater can optimize its energy efficiency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s best if you hire a qualified pool professional to install the heater, especially its electric hook-up, and to do complex maintenance or repair tasks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Underground piping is relatively simple but costly. Electrical systems are highly reliable but require constant monitoring and maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Propane tanks are easy to install but dangerous to store and transport. Additionally, these systems need special permits in some municipalities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Therefore, none of these options offer total freedom, simplicity, or safety, nor do they provide a wide range of operating temperatures over 24 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Solar heating options are often one of the best options when it comes to finding a heater for an above ground pool<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A typical pool heat pump system uses a circulation pump to circulate the water around the pool. The pump sucks up the water from the bottom of the pool and then pushes it back down into the pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The pump also keeps the water moving by pushing it around the sides of the pool. The pump does this using a motor that spins an impeller inside the pump. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As the water moves through the pump, it picks up heat from the surrounding environment. This causes the water to become hotter than normal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When the water reaches the top of the pump, it goes back down to the bottom of the pool. The water that comes out of the pump is warmer than when it went in. Read our full post on how a pool heat pump works<\/a> for a deeper dive!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Higher efficiency means lower energy costs. Scroll compressors are used in heat pumps, but they are more expensive than reciprocating compressors because they require more maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Heat pumps are very efficient. They use less energy than other types of heating systems. However, they do cost more upfront.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You should also consider how big your pool is. A bigger pool means a larger heat pump. This will increase the price of the unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pool heaters are sized based on the surface area of the swimming pool and the difference between pool and ambient temperature. Wind speed affects how much energy is needed to heat the water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Humidity level affects how much heat is required to maintain the desired temperature range. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Cooler nighttime temperatures mean less heat is needed to warm the water. A standard-sized pool requires about 10-15% more heating power than a smaller pool. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, a 75,000 BTU pool needs about 8.7 hp and a 100,000 BTU pool requires 12.6 hp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To heat a swimming pool, you need an amount of energy equal to the area of the pool times the difference between your desired water temperature and the water temperature multiplied by 60.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Heat pump efficiency is measured by the coefficient of thermal performance (CTP), or COP. CTP ranges from 4.0 to 6.5, which translates into efficiency of 400%-600%. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For every unit of electricity used to run the compres\ufeff\u7280\u5229\u58eb<\/a>\n<\/span>sor, you’ll get about four units of heat output. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s take a look at different states in the US and how the temperatures differ! <\/p>\n\n\n\n In Miami, the temperature drops dramatically during the winter months. During the summer, the temperature rises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In Phoenix, the temperature falls significantly during the coldest part of the year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In Dallas, the temperature remains relatively constant throughout the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In Atlanta, the temperature drops during the coldest time of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In Los Angeles, the temperature remains relatively stable throughout the year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In Kansas City, the temperature drops during the winter months. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In New York, the temperature drops dramatically throughout the entire year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Chicago has the highest cost per square foot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Denver is the cheapest. Using a heat pump saves money over time because it uses less electricity than other types of pool heaters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Proper installation and maintenance of your pool heater can optimize its energy efficiency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s best if you hire a qualified pool professional to install the heater, especially its electric hook-up, and to do complex maintenance or repair tasks. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBenefits Of Swimming Pool Heaters<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How Does A Swimming Pool Heat Pump Work?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nEfficiency Of Swimming Pool Heat Pumps<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Temperature Differences Across The U.S That Affect Pool Heating<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nInstallation And Maintenance Of Your Swimming Pool Heater<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"pool](\"https:\/\/allaboutpools.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/pool-heater-maintenance-1024x374.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n