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A Buyer’s Comparison of Pool Heat Pumps and Gas Heaters<\/h4>\n
Most swimming pools are heated one of two ways: with an electric heat pump or a gas heater. Each heating system has its pros and cons, as you\u2019ll read below.<\/p>\n
In the simplest terms, an electric heat pump works by drawing in outside air and heating it up. The warmer the outside air, the hotter the water will be. Because of this, heat pumps are more common in warmer climates. When the temperature dips below 45 or 50 degrees, heat pumps start to become inefficient. <\/p>\n
How Much Does a Swimming Pool Heat Pump Cost? <\/h4>\n
Electric heat pumps for in-ground pools cost anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000<\/strong> – significantly more than gas heaters. For above-ground pools they\u2019re less expensive, ranging from about $1,700 to $2,500.<\/strong><\/p>\n However, electric heat pumps cost less to operate, with annual costs averaging $800 to $1,000. If you keep the pool covered when it is not being used, you can cut the operating cost in half. <\/p>\n Size is one of the most important considerations in choosing an electric heat pump. Pool heat pumps are generally categorized by horsepower (hp) and British thermal unit (Btu) output. Standard sizes include 3.5 hp\/75,000 Btu, 5 hp\/100,000 Btu and 6 hp\/125,000 Btu. If you\u2019re unsure of what size to buy, consult a professional.<\/p>\n Efficiency is equally important, but it can be difficult to measure. Heat pump efficiency is measured by coefficient of performance (COP), which ranges from 3 to 7, with higher numbers meaning more efficiency. However, different manufacturers use different methods of rating COP. Pay attention to the efficiency rating, but never choose on that alone. Read product reviews to find out how the heat pump actually measures up.<\/p>\n
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\n <\/ul>\n Gas pool heaters are powered using natural gas or propane. They are more popular than electric heat pumps, despite being less efficient, because they heat quickly and cost less upfront. Gas heaters are particularly popular in cold climates, where they can greatly extend the swimming season.<\/p>\n In order to use a gas heater, you\u2019ll need to have a gas line running to your home. However, having a gas line installed simply for the purpose of connecting it to a pool heater doesn\u2019t make financial sense for most people.<\/p>\n Gas heaters generally cost about $1,000 to $2,500.<\/strong> Operating costs run about $1,000 to $1,500 per year,<\/strong> assuming the heater is used several times per week but is not left running all the time.<\/p>\n Size and efficiency are the most important considerations for gas heaters, too. Size is measured in BTUs ranging from 75,000 to 450,000. As with electric heat pumps, consult a professional if you\u2019re unsure of what size to buy. <\/p>\n Efficiency is easier to measure with gas heaters because manufacturers use a standard measurement based on BTU output. Most modern gas heaters have an efficiency rating of 80 percent or higher, which means 20 percent of the fuel is wasted. High-efficiency models have ratings of 90 to 95 percent.<\/p>\n
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\n <\/ul>\nChoosing an An Electric Heat Pump <\/h4>\n
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<\/div>\nSwimming Pool Heat Pump Pros <\/h4>\n
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Swimming Pool Heat Pump Cons <\/h4>\n
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Swimming Pool Gas Heater Overview <\/h4>\n
How Much Does a Swimming Pool Gas Heater Cost? <\/h4>\n
Choosing a Gas Heater <\/h4>\n
Swimming Pool Gas Heater Pros <\/h4>\n
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Swimming Pool Gas Heater Cons <\/h4>\n
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