There’s no point owning a pool if it’s too cold to use. Adding heating extends the use of your pool to late spring and into the fall months and it is essential for indoor pools used year round.  The extra warmth makes the pool throughout the seasons and is preferred if you have toddlers using the pool as well.

There are now many methods available to heat a pool. Some standard options are

• gas
• heat pumps
• solar

Gas Heaters

Gas heaters use either natural gas or propane to generate heat. An electronic ignition system and fan-assisted combustion create a high-efficiency heater that warms the water as it circulates past the furnace. The system is usually takes advantage of the same service used to heat your home.

Most gas heaters work like a giant kettle. Water passes through a heat exchanger that sits above a gas burner. The system is fast and can usually raise the temperature of the water about 1 degree Fahrenheit every hour.

Simple models use a pilot light that is lit at the beginning of the season but newer energy efficient models may feature a heat sensor that responds to a dip in water temperature  by igniting the burner. The heater is only on when it is needed.  Look for a heater with a rating of 82% or higher efficiency.

Gas heaters must be installed by a professional following government guidelines. The size (taring in BTU) is based on the size of the pool. Bigger pools need more powerful systems.

Locate the furnace someplace where it is accessible and with good air circulation, away from anything combustible and make sure you know where the shut-off valve is and how to restart the furnace should it falter.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps transfer heat from the air to the water. They slowly raise the temperature of the water significantly and cheaply. They work best in environments that are warm and humid. Some have digital thermostats included.

Heat pumps operate by using electricity to power a compressor and refrigerant system rather like an air conditioner.  The amount of heat generated is measured as a Co-efficiency of Performance (COP)

Electric

Electric heaters are relatively inexpensive and are low emission choices. They are also able to run at different temperatures but they put a high demand on the household’s electrical capacity. Your electrical panel may need to be upgraded before this is an option.

Geothermal

A relatively new option is geothermal. This provides an efficient year-round option drawing heat from deep down in the earth and transferring it to the water through heat exchangers.

Solar

Solar panels have dropped considerably in price and improved in their capacity to supply heat year round. Generally they consist of panels attached to a roof or wall.

Another solar option uses tubes to circulate water into the sunlight.