When it comes to heating your pool, choosing the right type of pool heater is crucial to maximizing comfort, energy efficiency, and cost savings. Among the most popular options are heat pump pool heaters and natural gas heaters. Both have their pros and cons, and the best choice for you depends on factors like your location, budget, and how often you use your pool. In this post, we’ll break down the differences between these two types of heaters to help you make an informed decision.
How Heat Pump Pool Heaters Work
In Arizona, you are definitely familiar with air conditioning. A heat pump works on exactly the same principles as your home air conditioner, except in reverse. Your air conditioner moves heat from inside your home to the outside, while a heat pump transfers heat from the air into your pool water. It uses electricity to power a fan that draws in air from the surrounding environment, which then passes over an evaporator coil containing a refrigerant. The refrigerant absorbs the heat from the air, turning into a gas. This gas is then compressed, generating even more heat, which is transferred to the pool water as it circulates through the heater.
Pros of Heat Pump Pool Heaters:
- Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps are extremely energy-efficient, especially in warmer climates where the air temperature is consistently above 50°F (i.e., us here in Scottsdale almost all year). They use far less electricity than electric resistance heaters, making them a greener choice.
- Lower Operating Costs: Although the initial cost is higher, heat pumps have lower operating costs compared to natural gas heaters, especially in areas with mild climates.
- Longevity: Heat pumps tend to last longer than gas heaters, with a typical lifespan of 10-15 years, making them a solid long-term investment.
Cons of Heat Pump Pool Heaters:
- Slower Heating: Heat pumps generally take longer to heat a pool than natural gas heaters, which might be a downside if you want to raise the temperature quickly for a spontaneous swim. For a typical residential pool, they typically heat your water by 0.5 to 1.0 degrees per hour, meaning to get from 70 degree water to 80 degree water will take half a day or more.
- Less Effective in Cold Climates: In colder climates, heat pumps are less effective because they rely on warm air to heat the water. If the air temperature drops below 50°F, their efficiency can decrease significantly. This is not a major issue in Scottsdale or Phoenix, especially since most homeowners use a heat pump to extend the swimming season into April and October, when temperatures are still warm.
How Natural Gas Pool Heaters Work
Natural gas pool heaters burn gas in a combustion chamber to generate heat, which is then transferred to the pool water as it circulates through the heater. This method is highly effective for quickly raising the temperature of your pool water, making it ideal for those who want to heat their pool on demand.
Pros of Natural Gas Pool Heaters:
- Fast Heating: Natural gas heaters can heat your pool water much faster than heat pumps, making them ideal for pools that are used occasionally or for those who want to quickly heat their pool before use.
- Effective in Any Climate: Unlike heat pumps, natural gas heaters are effective in all climates, regardless of the air temperature. This makes them a reliable option for cooler regions.
- Lower Initial Cost: Natural gas heaters typically have a lower upfront cost compared to heat pumps, which might make them more attractive if you're looking to keep initial expenses down.
Cons of Natural Gas Pool Heaters:
- Higher Operating Costs: The cost of natural gas can add up, especially if you use your pool frequently or maintain it at a high temperature. Over time, these costs can exceed the savings from the lower initial investment.
- Shorter Lifespan: Natural gas heaters generally have a shorter lifespan (5-10 years) compared to heat pumps, so you may need to replace them more frequently.
- Upfront Install: If you don't have a natural gas line to your pool equipment area, one will need to be laid. Depending on how far your existing natural gas hookup is from your pool equipment area, this can add cost to the project. =
Which One Should You Choose?
The decision between a heat pump pool heater and a natural gas heater depends on several factors:
- Climate: If you live in a warmer climate, a heat pump is likely the better option due to its energy efficiency and lower operating costs. In cooler climates, a natural gas heater may be more effective, especially during the colder months.
- Pool Usage: Consider how often and when you use your pool. If you use your pool frequently and prefer to maintain a steady temperature, a heat pump is a good choice. If you use your pool less frequently and want to heat it quickly, a natural gas heater may be more suitable.
- Budget: While heat pumps have a higher initial cost, they tend to have lower long-term operating costs. Natural gas heaters, on the other hand, are less expensive to purchase but can be more costly to run over time.
- Existing Gas and Electrical Hookups: If your home does not have a natural gas hookup, then it is not economical to tap into gas only for a pool heater. Likewise, if you have natural gas already, but your nearest gas line is far from your pool equipment, it can be expensive to run a gas line to your equipment area. Depending on your available amperage at your pool sub-panel, a heat pump may not require any additional electrical capacity. A heat pump typically requires 50-60 amps. Sometimes, your pool sub-panel will need to be upgraded to accommodate the required amperage for a heat pump.
Conclusion
Both heat pump pool heaters and natural gas heaters have their strengths, and the best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you live in a mild climate and are looking for energy efficiency and lower operating costs, a heat pump might be the way to go. If you need fast heating and live in a cooler climate, a natural gas heater could be the better option.
At Splash Mob Pools, we offer expert advice and professional installation for both types of heaters. Contact us today to discuss your pool heating needs, and let us help you find the perfect solution to keep your pool warm and inviting all year round.
