At Avalon Pools and Spas in Milton, VT, we know how important it is for pool owners to enjoy their swimming pools as long as possible, even when the temperatures start to dip. Choosing the right pool heating option can help you extend your swimming season and maximize your pool’s comfort. Two of the most popular options for pool heating are pool heaters and heat pumps, but how do you know which one is the best for your needs?
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between pool heaters and heat pumps, outlining their pros, cons, and costs so you can make an informed decision.
Pool Heaters
Pool heaters are a common choice among pool owners for their ability to heat water quickly and effectively, regardless of the outside temperature. These heaters operate by using natural gas, propane, or electricity to heat the water before cycling it back into your pool.
Pros of Pool Heaters:
- Quick Heating: Pool heaters can heat your pool water rapidly, making them ideal for those who want to raise the temperature on demand.
- All-Weather Performance: Because pool heaters do not rely on ambient air temperature, they can efficiently heat your pool in colder conditions, even in Vermont’s cooler climate.
- Lower Upfront Cost: Typically, pool heaters have a lower initial purchase price compared to heat pumps.
Cons of Pool Heaters:
- Higher Operating Costs: While pool heaters heat quickly, they also tend to be more expensive to operate due to the cost of propane, natural gas, or electricity. Depending on fuel type, the hourly cost of running a pool heater can range from $3.00 to $9.00.
- Fuel Dependency: Pool heaters require a constant fuel source like natural gas or propane, which can add to operational expenses over time.
Best for:
Pool heaters are a great option for those living in colder climates, like Vermont, where temperatures may drop frequently. If you want to extend your pool season well into the cooler months, a pool heater may be your best bet for reliable, on-demand heating.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps operate quite differently from traditional pool heaters. Instead of burning fuel, heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat from the surrounding air into your pool water. This makes them more energy-efficient but less effective in cooler temperatures.
Pros of Heat Pumps:
- Energy-Efficient: Heat pumps consume far less energy compared to traditional pool heaters, which translates to lower operational costs over time. Running a heat pump costs around $0.63 per hour—significantly less than gas or propane heaters.
- Environmentally Friendly: Because they don’t rely on burning fossil fuels, heat pumps produce no emissions, making them a greener option.
- Lower Running Costs: Once installed, heat pumps are generally cheaper to operate, helping you save on energy bills in the long run.
Cons of Heat Pumps:
- Higher Upfront Cost: Heat pumps typically have a higher initial cost compared to gas or propane pool heaters.
- Temperature Dependent: Heat pumps rely on the ambient air temperature to function efficiently. They work best when the temperature is above 50°F, making them less effective in cooler climates like Vermont.
- Slower Heating: Heat pumps tend to warm the water more slowly than traditional heaters, which may not be ideal for those who want instant warmth.
Best for:
Heat pumps are a great option for those in milder climates or pool owners looking for an energy-efficient solution. However, because Vermont’s temperatures frequently dip below 50°F, a heat pump may not be the best choice for extending your pool season into the colder months.
Cost Comparison
- Upfront Costs: Pool heaters generally have lower upfront costs than heat pumps. However, this difference in initial expense is offset by the long-term operational costs.
- Operational Costs: The ongoing cost of running a pool heater is significantly higher than that of a heat pump, especially if you’re using propane or natural gas. While pool heaters can cost up to $9.00 per hour to run, heat pumps cost a fraction of that, at about $0.63 per hour.
- Maintenance: Both systems require routine maintenance to ensure longevity and performance. However, because heat pumps use fewer mechanical parts than gas heaters, they tend to require less maintenance over time.
Pool Heater vs Heat Pump: Which Is Best for You?
When choosing between a pool heater and a heat pump, your decision will depend on several factors, including your location, pool size, budget, and heating needs.
- If you live in a colder climate like Vermont and need a reliable, quick-heating solution, a pool heater is likely your best option. It works efficiently in all weather conditions, heats water quickly, and allows you to extend your pool season into fall and winter.
- However, if energy efficiency and long-term cost savings are more important to you, and you don’t plan to swim during colder months, a heat pump may be the right choice. Heat pumps are ideal for mild climates and come with significantly lower operating costs.
At Avalon Pools and Spas, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your pool heating needs. Whether you opt for a pool heater or heat pump, we offer a range of high-quality products from trusted manufacturers to keep your pool warm and comfortable all season long.
Contact us today to learn more about our pool heating options and to get expert advice on which system is best for your pool!
