You know you want your backyard swimming pool to be warm enough to enjoy all year round. This means you need something to ensure the water temperature doesn't dip below what is healthy and comfortable. You need a pool heater! Or, do you need a heat pump?
If you're like most pool owners, you're not even sure what the difference is, much less which one is the right product for you. We have the answers you're looking for!
Swimming Pool Heaters vs. Heat Pumps
When it comes to keeping your pool's water at a comfortable temperature, you have two options: a heater or a heat pump. The main difference is how they get the water to your desired temperature. Heat pumps operate differently from pool heaters by using electricity to capture heat and move it from one place to another. They use the outside air surrounding the unit to heat your pool. The air passes over an evaporator coil, and the heated refrigerant transfers the heat to the water returning back into your pool.
Since heat pumps use the outside air around the unit, they only work efficiently when temperatures are higher than 50 degrees (Fahrenheit). When temperatures drop below this threshold, a heat pump loses the ability to effectively heat your pool water. This is definitely something to keep in mind if you plan on swimming well into winter!
Swimming pool heaters are the most popular option when it comes to heating your pool. Heaters use either natural gas, propane, or electricity to heat water and then return it back into your pool. They have a lower upfront cost and raise water temperatures quickly. Although heaters have a lower upfront cost than heat pumps, they do have ongoing maintenance costs to be aware of. A few things to consider include:
- Lower upfront cost
- Heats pool water quickly
- Easily installed into the gas line from your home
- Higher utility costs
- More moving parts compared to heat pumps, meaning more chance of mechanical issues needing repair
Which is the Right One for You?
Both heaters and heat pumps are a great solution for anyone looking for an effective way to heat the water in their backyard pool. The main deciding factors between the two options will be your location, budget, and heating needs. If you want a lower upfront cost and to swim during the winter, go with a heater. If you want low ongoing costs and a more efficient system, buy a heat pump. The choice is yours!
We have plenty to choose from on our website, so you're sure to find the perfect one to meet your swimming needs. Check out our deals page for what's currently on sale. Many times we have heaters and heat pumps listed on this page. Don't forget, we also sell heater and heat pump accessories!
