Swimming is an enjoyable activity families and friends can do together. It is also a great full body exercise. Yet, one main factor that causes people to steer away from the pool is the cold water! Nobody enjoys swimming in cold water. That is where a pool heater can come in handy. Pool heaters come in different types, but which one is right for you? Let’s take a dive into the variety of ways you can heat up your swimming pool to find out which one is right for you.
Types of Ways to Heat Your Pool
Solar Pool Heaters
Solar energy heated pools are energy efficient in most climates. They are particularly popular in warmer climates because of their dual ability. Solar pool heaters can cool down the pool by rerouting the water through collectors at night. The solar collectors can be installed anywhere there is exposure to an ample amount of sunlight. By harnessing energy from the sun, solar panels a.k.a. solar collectors on your roof connect to the solar pool heaters. These pump the water through to where the water is warmed and goes through the pool filter. Not only is renewable solar power energy the environmentally conscious option… it is also the financially conscious option.
Here at Celestial Solar, we specialize in solar pool heating. Contact us today for a free quote to ensure perfect pool temperature year-round!
Gas Pool Heaters
The most common kind of pool heating system is the gas-fired heating system. They are the fastest way to heat a pool and can maintain your desired temperature- rain or shine. In comparison to solar or electric heat pumps, gas pumps are the costliest option. They work best in cooler climates, where the pool will not be open for use in all seasons. Gas pool heaters work by burning natural gas or propane. When the pool’s pump circulates the water, it goes through the filter and to the heater. In the heater, there is a combustion chamber where the gas burns to create heat. The heat then transfers to the water that replenishes the pool. Always vent the gas pool heater as far away as possible from the pool. The gas fumes can gather and settle on top of the water and pose a risk to swimmers.
Electric Heat Pump Heaters
An electric heat pump pool heater uses air warmed by the sun to heat the water. First, the heat pump pulls in cold water, the freon in the unit compresses until it becomes burning hot. Next, the freon goes through an expansion valve. As it goes from the high-pressure zone to the low-pressure zone. Here the freon turns into a hot gas which then flows through evaporator coils. As it goes through the evaporator coils it cools. This transfer of heat goes to the water circulating the heat pump, which heats the pool up. Electric heat pump systems are only useable in moderate to warm climates. This is because the ambient air temperature must be above 10 degrees Celsius for the unit to work. The warmer the air is, the warmer your pool will be. Hence, why this option is suitable for humid climates. A major limitation of this option is not having a dual purpose like solar pool heaters do.
Benefits of Heating Your Pool
Owning a pool is a sizeable investment- not wanting to swim in it because it’s too cold can feel like robbery. The chilly water isn’t only stealing your fun, it might be stealing your health too. Heating your pool can improve your health. Water therapy, a type of physical therapy, uses heated pools. Swimming, exercising, or lounging around in a heated pool has many health benefits. It can relax your joints and muscles, improve circulation, and relieve stress.
Jumping into an icy pool on a sweltering day may sound refreshing but in reality, it’s quite shocking. In fact, your body’s response to the sudden change in temperature can be dangerous. Entering water even 15 degrees Celsius can cause the condition cold water shock. Cold water shock happens when there is an increase in resistance of blood flow. This is because of your skin’s blood vessels close when exposed to cold water.
Restricted blood flow increases your heart rate and pressure. This heightened heart rate and blood pressure can cause heart attacks. Youth and elderly alike tend to be even more sensitive to water temperatures’ effect on the body. Avoid cold water shock in your pool by having a good pool heater. Heating your pool means you can make your swimming season as long as you’d like. And the longer your swim season, the more opportunities to exercise, play, or relax in your pool. A more enjoyable environment means you are bound to get more use out of your investment.
Cost of Heating Your Pool
Solar Heater Cost
A solar pool heater costs around $4,000 to $7,000, however they cost $0 to run after the purchase due to the way they operate. Since the pool pump is already on cleaning your pool, you are now heating and cleaning at the same time with a solar heater. Solar pool heaters will last on average 10-20 years. Some states even offer rebates for solar pool heaters.
Gas Heater Cost
A gas pool heater costs $4,000 to $10,000 and will cost around $200 – $500+ per month to operate. With the shortest lifespan of the three options, a gas heater will last for 7-12 years.
Electric Heater Cost
An electric pool heater costs $5,500 to $10,050 and $50 to $150 per day to operate. Electric pool hearts usually have a lifespan of 10-15 years.
At Celestial Solar, we can give you an accurate estimate of the cost to heat your pool with solar energy
Conclusion
There are three options for heating your pool: solar power, burning gas, or an electric heat pump. Using a solar heater for your pool can save the popular pool owner a lot of money eventually. If you already live under the Sun, why not take advantage? Solar energy is the most sustainable, as it emits the least amount of greenhouse gases. Cost and energy efficiency are what set solar power heated pools apart. It is not just in name- Our team at celestial solar are experts on solar power heated pool systems. We offer our 5 star rated services in Las Vegas, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside & San Bernadino. Check out our website for more information or to get your free estimate!
Additional Reading
Solar Swimming Pool Heater – Everything You Need to Know | Solar.com