Is installing a pool heater the right decision for you?
...That depends. The first thing to understand is that having a pool heater can extend your pool season for an average of one month in the spring (opening early April), and an average of one month in the fall (closing late October).
- Do I want to extend my rental season?
Heated pools attract spring and fall vacationers. - Do I want to use my pool during the shoulder months when I take my home off the rental market?
Pools are often too cold when homeowners are here enjoying their homes outside of peak rental weeks. - Is this a good year to make an improvement?
Some years are better than others, and if you weren't hit with other unexpected home maintenance costs, now might be a good time.
Electric Heat Pump (HVAC):
- lower operating cost/energy efficient
- more reliable in the harsh salt air environment
- easier repairs. HVAC is common
- new units have a defrost function that will cool the pool water.
- higher initial cost
- takes longer to heat pool water
- will not work in cold weather (50F and below) or heavy winds.
Gas Heater (plumbed into line to your stove/fireplace):
- lower initial cost
- heats water quickly
- will operate in lower outside temperatures and regardless of wind
- more components make it more vulnerable to the environment.
- much higher operation cost. Gas is expensive.
- because gas heaters are getting less common, repair technicians are becoming harder to find. This can result in longer wait time for repairs.