Pool Heaters

Maintain your pool's ideal temperature with our selection of pool heaters, designed for energy efficiency and reliable performance. These heaters ensure comfortable swimming conditions year-round.

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Choosing the Right Pool Heater for Your Setup

A pool heater extends your swimming season and keeps water at a comfortable temperature year-round. Three main types exist: gas heaters, heat pump pool heaters, and solar heaters. Each has pros and cons depending on climate, energy costs, and how much you're willing to spend upfront. The U.S. Department of Energy provides a solid comparison of all three types and their long-term costs.

Gas heaters (propane or natural gas) heat water quickly, raising temperature 6 to 8 degrees per hour. They're affordable to install ($1,500 to $2,500) but expensive to operate, costing $200 to $400 monthly during winter. They work well if you only heat seasonally and don't want a large upfront investment. For year-round heating in mild climates, gas gets pricey fast. The Department of Energy gas heater guide covers BTU sizing and efficiency ratings to help you estimate operating costs.

A heat pump pool heater costs more upfront ($3,000 to $6,000) but runs on electricity, making it cheaper long-term in most climates. Heat pumps pull warmth from ambient air and transfer it to your pool water. They work best in temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and heat more slowly than gas (2 to 3 degrees per day), but they're 3 to 5 times more efficient. If you're in a mild climate and plan to heat year-round, a heat pump typically saves thousands over its 10 to 15-year lifespan.

Solar heaters have high installation costs ($4,000 to $8,000) but virtually no operating costs. They work well in sunny climates and pair perfectly with variable-speed pumps that can run during peak sun hours. The trade-off: slow heating (2 to 4 degrees per day) and dependence on weather.

Pool Heater Sizing and BTU Requirements

Heater sizing is based on pool volume, desired temperature rise, and how quickly you want to heat. The formula: (Pool Volume in Gallons x 8.33 x Desired Temperature Rise in Degrees) / Hours to Heat = BTUs per Hour Required. A 20,000-gallon pool heated from 60 to 78 degrees in 24 hours requires: (20,000 x 8.33 x 18) / 24 = 124,750 BTUs per hour.

Most residential gas heaters range from 200,000 to 400,000 BTU per hour. A 300,000 BTU heater can heat a 20,000-gallon pool from 60 to 78 degrees in roughly 2 to 3 days of continuous operation. For faster heating, choose a larger heater. For slower, cheaper heating, choose smaller.

Heat pumps are rated by "COP" (Coefficient of Performance) rather than BTU output. A COP of 5 means the pump produces 5 units of heat for every 1 unit of electricity consumed. Higher COP is better. Most residential models have COP between 3 and 6, depending on temperature. They're sized similarly to gas heaters in terms of nominal capacity but deliver that output much more slowly.

Your pool pump must deliver adequate flow through the heater. Most heaters require 25 to 50 GPM. Check your pump's output at your filter's head pressure and ensure it meets the heater's minimum flow rating. Too little flow causes overheating and equipment damage.

Installation and Integration

Pool heaters install between your filter and the return line, heating all water that cycles through. Gas heaters connect to either a propane tank or natural gas line. Electric heaters plug into a standard outlet (smaller models) or a dedicated breaker (larger units). Heat pump installation requires proper airflow and usually 6 to 8 feet of clearance on the sides.

Most heaters integrate with your pump and filtration system through standard plumbing connections. High-end models work with pool automation systems, letting you set target temperatures and run schedules through a smartphone app or wall controller.

When pairing a heater with a heat pump or additional heating equipment, ensure your electrical service can handle the load. A 5 kW heat pump draws significant current; if your breaker panel is maxed out, you'll need an electrician to add a new circuit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature should I keep my pool?

For lap swimming, 78 to 80 degrees is typical. For recreational swimming with children, 82 to 84 degrees. For therapy or seniors, 85 to 90 degrees. Keep in mind that every degree above 78 increases operating costs roughly 10 to 15%.

Can I use a pool heater year-round?

Gas heaters can, but it's expensive in cold climates. Heat pumps struggle below 50 degrees and won't heat efficiently. In northern climates, most people use heaters March through October and close the pool in winter.

How long does a pool heater last?

Gas heaters last 8 to 15 years with proper maintenance. Heat pumps last 10 to 15 years. Solar heaters can last 15 to 20 years since they have no moving parts.

Should I leave my heater on all the time?

No. Use a timer or pool automation to run your heater only during use periods. Running 24/7 wastes energy and money. Most pools only need heating 8 to 12 hours per day during season.

What's the cheapest way to heat a pool?

Solar heating if you have sun. Heat pumps if you want year-round heating with low operating costs. Gas heaters if you want quick heating and don't mind higher bills. Consider your climate and usage to pick the most economical option.

Browse our complete pool heater selection and explore heat pump options for energy-efficient heating. Pair your heater with a compatible pump system and pool cover for maximum efficiency and heat retention.

View our complete list of Swimming Pool Heater FAQs

Pool heaters provide powerful, reliable temperature control to help you enjoy your swimming pool longer each year. Ideal for cooler climates or early and late-season use, pool heaters quickly raise the water temperature using natural gas, propane, or electricity.

This collection includes high-efficiency pool heaters for inground and above-ground pools, offering fast performance and dependable heating. Whether you're heating a small backyard pool or a large commercial setup, you'll find durable options designed to keep the water comfortable on your schedule.

Disclaimer:
Due to installation complexity and safety standards, pool heaters & heat pumps are not eligible for return once installed or connected. Double-check model specs and fuel type before proceeding.