Pool Heat Pump vs Gas Heater: What’s The Difference?
If you're looking to extend your swimming season by heating your pool, you might be wondering about the difference between a pool heat pump vs. gas heater. When the temperatures drop, it can be hard to enjoy your pool. That's where pool heaters come in—they help keep pool water comfortable day or night throughout the swimming season.
When it comes to the types of pool heaters and how they work, the main debate boils down to a pool heat pump vs gas heater. Below, we'll look at the differences between them and the pros and cons of each type to help you decide which is right for your pool.
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How Pool Heat Pumps Work
To get the ideal pool water temperature, heat pumps start by drawing heat from the ambient air. Once the ambient air passes over the evaporator coil inside the heat pump, which contains refrigerant, heat is absorbed and turned into gas. The gas will continue to heat as it passes through the other components such as the condenser and compressor. This process is continually cycled as the pool pump draws water from the pool into the heat pump.
The heat pump’s components, such as the evaporator coils, condenser, compressor, and air conditioner all play a pivotal role in extracting warmth from the air.
Best Climates for Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are best used in mild to warm climates. This is due to the fact heat pumps rely on outside air. Once the outside temperatures drop, heat pumps become less efficient. In mild to warm climates where temperatures rarely drop below 50 degrees, heat pumps can still perform to a high degree.
Pros & Cons of Pool Heat Pumps
Here is a side-by-side breakdown of the pros and cons of pool heat pumps:
Pros:
- Costs less to operate
- Energy efficient
- No emissions
- Easier to install
- Highly compatible with mild climates
Cons:
- Doesn’t heat up larger pools as quickly
- More expensive upfront cost
- Doesn’t work as well with outside temperatures below 50 degrees
- Requires a 50-60 amp breaker on the side
How Gas Pool Heaters Work
Gas pool heaters contain a combustion chamber responsible for converting propane or natural gas into heat. Heat is conducted by coils inside the pump. Water passes through the gas pool heater and once heated, flows into the pool. The process is repeated until the pool temperature reaches the desired level.
These heaters come in two varieties: natural gas or propane. Natural gas pool heaters require a gas line connection. Professional installation is needed because of this, making upfront costs higher. Propane pool heaters operate off a small gas canister. These canisters can often be refilled as well. Propane pool heaters are cheaper than the natural gas variety, but they’re still more expensive than a heat pump.
Best Climates for Gas Heaters
Compared to heat pumps, gas heaters perform well under most weather conditions. On top of that, gas heaters can heat a pool up to five times as fast. While this is a great benefit in itself, it also lends itself perfectly to colder climates in need of faster heating capabilities. This also makes gas heaters dependable throughout the year, no matter the season. If you plan on heating your pool in winter, a gas heater is the best option.
Pros & Cons of Gas Pool Heaters
Here is a side-by-side breakdown of the pros and cons of pool heaters:
Pros:
- Heats pool quicker
- Lower upfront cost
- Conveniently installed into a gas line from your home
Cons:
- Pool heater size could be limited due to the home’s existing gas line
- A new gas line may need to be installed, which typically requires a permit and needs to be professionally done
- Higher utility costs
- A new gas meter may be required
Pool Heater Cost Comparison
An important component of consideration for pool owners is the pool heat pump vs gas heater cost comparison. From initial purchase to future maintenance, here is how the pool heater cost compares:
- Initial purchase cost comparison. For the initial purchase, a gas pool heater is the cheapest option. Gas pool heaters usually range from $1500 to $2500 compared to an electric heat pump that runs between $2500 to $3500.
- Installation costs. When it comes to down installation costs, the complexity and size of the job determines the cost. Considering gas pool heaters have specific installation needs, the cost of installing one is more varied. Installation for a new gas pool heater can range anywhere from $500 to $2000 depending on the home’s current system layout. Because pool heat pumps have an easier installation process, prices don’t fall under as large of a range. Pool heat pumps typically cost around $1000 to install.
- Operational costs. While gas pool heaters are cheaper at the beginning, their operational costs are higher. It costs between $200 and $400 a month to operate the average gas pool heater. For pool heat pumps, operating costs range from $100 to $200 per month.
- Maintenance costs. For consistent and high levels of performance, maintenance for either system is required. Pool heat pumps are a better piece of equipment overall, making maintenance costs more affordable. A gas pool heater isn’t as advanced as a heat pump and has other moving parts that also need to be maintained, making maintenance costs more expensive.
Pool Heating Systems From ePoolSupply
The “pool heat pump vs gas heater” debate isn’t an easy one to settle due to their differences. Pool owners need to consider multiple factors such as climate, current pool layout, needs, and budget before deciding which system is right for them. Once you’re ready to decide, visit our pool supply store or shop online today for a wide selection of top quality heat pumps and pool heaters.
Need additional information or advice on selecting the right type of pool heater? ePoolSupply has you covered with plenty of in-depth articles, videos, and expert staff available to answer your questions!
Pool Heater FAQ
Do heat pumps work in cold weather?
Heat pumps are much better suited for mild and warm climates. Heat pumps struggle to maintain their normal efficiency and performance in colder temperatures.
How long do pool heaters last?
Pool heaters typically last between 7 to 10 years. They can last even longer with proper maintenance and timely repairs.
Is it cheaper to heat a pool with gas or electricity?
It’s cheaper to heat a pool by the electric means of a heat pump. Operational costs for the electric variety range from $100 to $200 per month compared to up to $400 a month for gas.
Which is more energy-efficient, a heat pump or a gas heater?
In mild climates, heat pumps are the more energy-efficient option. Heat pumps can also be paired with a scroll compressor to make them even more efficient.
How long does it take to heat a pool with a heat pump vs. a gas heater?
Gas heaters heat pools quicker at an average rate of 2 degrees per hour compared to heat pumps at 1 to 1.5 degrees per hour.
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