how much pool heater

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

Your Complete Guide to Buying the Best Pool Heater

If you own a swimming pool, you know that it's important to keep the temperature of the water comfortable for swimmers. Having a pool heater is a must for those who want to keep their pool in use throughout the year, especially during colder months. But how much does a pool heater cost? Are there various types of pool heaters to choose from? In this article, we'll answer all your questions and help you choose the best pool heater for your needs.

What is a pool heater?

A pool heater is a system that raises the temperature of your pool water. It's designed to maintain a comfortable swimming temperature by absorbing heat from the surrounding air, ground, or sunlight in case of solar pool heaters. The most common types of pool heaters are gas-powered, electric, and solar heaters.

How much do pool heaters cost?

One of the most important questions is about the cost of pool heaters. The price varies depending on the type you choose, the size of your pool, and other factors. Here's a breakdown of average prices for pool heaters:

- Gas pool heaters: The average cost of a gas-powered pool heater is between $1,000-$1,500, plus an additional installation cost of up to $500. Gas heaters are the most common type of pool heater as they provide fast and effective heating.

- Electric pool heaters: The cost of an electric pool heater ranges between $500-$1,500 and the installation cost is around $500. Electric pool heaters are a more affordable option, but they take longer to heat up the water and operate at a higher cost.

- Solar pool heaters: The cost of a solar pool heater is anywhere between $2,000-$4,000, plus installation costs around $500. Solar pool heaters are eco-friendly and can save you money in the long run, but may require more significant upfront investment.

Consider the size of the pool

The size of your pool is another critical factor to consider when choosing a pool heater. A bigger pool requires more energy to heat up, which means you'll need a more powerful heater. For instance, a gas pool heater with 400,000 BTUs can heat a pool up to 20,000 gallons, while a 200,000 BTUs heater can heat up to 10,000 gallons.

Determine the climate zone where you live

The climate zone where you live plays a significant role in deciding on the type of pool heater you need. For example, solar pool heaters may not be sufficient enough in colder climates, while gas heaters can be more effective. On the other hand, electric pool heaters are best in places with mild winters or strong sun exposure.

Consider the maintenance costs

Although pool heaters are designed to last for years, they also require routine maintenance. Gas pool heaters require the most maintenance, while solar heaters require the least. Electric pool heaters fall in between the two. Be sure to consider regular maintenance costs when deciding which pool heater to invest.

Final thoughts

When considering how much pool heater to buy, it's essential to weigh the upfront costs against the long-term savings that the heater can provide. While electric heaters are the cheapest option initially, they can be costly to operate. On the other hand, solar pool heaters require a sizable investment to install, but can save you money in the long run. Knowing your pool size, climate zone, and maintenance costs can help you choose the best pool heater for your needs.