Pool Heat Pump vs Gas Heater: Which is the Best

If you’re one of the US’s 10 million pool owners, you’ll know the frustration of struggling to keep your water at a consistent temperature. Water temperature is a bit like a mattress – you only notice it when it’s not right. And because It’s hard to relax when you’re shivering, we’ve put together some key facts about the best way to heat your pool. Whether you choose a heat pump or a gas heater, you need a consistent heat source that does the heavy lifting in the background, leaving you free to relax. 

Each source has pros and cons, but we need to investigate the details to make an informed decision. Let’s examine the variables and choose the right heater for your pool.

Pool heaters keep your pool at a comfortable level for swimming. Unlike an electric kettle, they transfer heat to the water through a heating element. Here’s a quick snapshot of what this looks like:

1. Circulation: The pool main pump pulls water from the pool.
2. Heating: Water goes through the heater.
3. Redistribution: Heated water goes back into the pool.

Electric heat pumps and gas heaters are the most common heaters, and both have pros and cons. Heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat, whereas gas heaters burn fuel to heat the water directly. Let’s explore these in more detail.

Heat pumps work by extracting heat from the air. While gas heaters work in any weather, heat pumps are incredibly efficient for the moderate winters we experience in our Dripping Springs area. They are perfect for maintaining a steady temperature throughout the long Texas swimming season. Here’s a rundown of how they work:

• Heat pumps use air from the atmosphere, converting it into warm air with a compressor and refrigerant.
• They’re very efficient. Although they have a higher upfront cost, they give lower running costs over the longer term.
• Heat pumps have a lifespan of 10-15 years if they are correctly maintained.

In some climates, you may want your pool cooled instead of warmed. Some heat pumps offer this, with brands like Pentair, Hayward, and Jandy now selling ‘Heat and Chill’ Units that can heat and cool your pool. AquaCal now offers Heatwave for heating or TropiCool units for dedicated cooling. Jandy is the only manufacturer producing only Heat and Chill Units, making them quite a rare commodity.

If you’re considering a Heat and Chill heat pump, consider the following:

• They can cool down your spa for a cold plunge.
• They keep water cooler in the summer, so swimming is more comfortable.

They’re suitable for longer pool seasons where gradual heating is required. Proper installation and location are key as they need enough airflow.

Gas heaters heat up faster, so they are suitable for quick warm-ups and are less dependent on air temperature.

• Fuel Source: These heaters use natural gas or propane.
• Temperature Rise: They can heat pool water fast, often in a few hours.
• Cost: Lower upfront cost but higher running costs, especially in colder weather.

Gas heaters suit colder climates or those not using their pools often. Choosing between gas and heat pumps depends on your heating needs and local conditions.

When choosing a pool heat pump or gas heater, consider upfront costs, running costs, maintenance requirements, and heating capacity and speed. Knowing these will help you decide.

Installation Requirements

A 50-amp electric supply will need to be available at the equipment pad for a heat pump. Natural gas and propane heaters will need a gas line installed to connect to the pool equipment.

Compatibility with Existing Panels: Compatibility with other equipment is not a big issue for natural gas and propane heaters. However, matching the unit with the automation panel brand for heat pumps is essential. For example, AquaCal units pair best with Pentair panels.

Ensure the heat pump is compatible with your system’s automation panel to avoid integration issues.

Upfront Cost

The upfront cost will always be a deciding factor when considering a heat pump. Gas heaters are cheaper to buy and install and suit budget-conscious buyers. Prices range from $4,000 to $6,000.

Heat pumps are 20-30% more expensive than gas heaters, at $6,000 to $8,000. This is mainly because they have more advanced technology, which means more costly components. But this isn’t the whole story—heat pumps can be used for many years, so we need to weigh this upfront cost against the long-term savings we might make.

When choosing between an electric pool heat pump and a gas heater, consider the installation costs and the ongoing running costs. Here’s a breakdown of annual costs:

Electric Heat Pump

• Electricity Cost: $300 – $800 per season
  Heat pumps are very energy efficient; they draw heat from the air, not generate it. This efficiency keeps electricity costs low, especially in warmer climates.

Natural Gas Heater

• Annual Gas Cost: $500 – $1,200 per season
  Gas heaters heat up fast but consume more energy. Natural gas is cheaper than propane, but costs can increase in colder weather or when used frequently.

Propane Gas Heater

• Annual Propane Cost: $800 – $1,500 per season
  Propane heaters are a good option for homes without natural gas. But propane is more expensive, so it’s the most expensive option for pool heating over the season.

Heaters have two main enemies: water leaks and rodents.

Water Leaks: If the heater leaks, chlorinated water will corrode the system and sometimes require a complete unit replacement. Installing a heater with a bypass function, like Jandy’s VersaFlo Integrated Bypass, reduces this risk by allowing water to flow through it only when needed. Most pool owners use their heater less than 5% of the time.

Rodents: These pests can damage your heater. To avoid this, you can regularly inspect your pump for signs of rodents and then use pest control services if you have a problem.

Heat pumps are HVAC units for your pool and have their considerations.

Refrigerant Issues: Heat pumps use refrigerants like R-410A or R-32. These have the advantage of eliminating natural gas or propane leaks, but they need regular servicing. Handling refrigerants requires a certified HVAC professional, so scheduled maintenance is a must to ensure efficient operation.

Heating Capacity And Speed

Heating a pool is no small task, and the pool size is a significant factor in choosing the right heater. A bigger unit, like a 400K BTU heater, can heat a spa or pool faster, so it’s a popular choice for natural gas and propane heaters.

Gas heaters are ideal for quick heating times and are suitable for those who want to swim on short notice. Larger pools can heat the water for hours. Heat pumps are slower to heat a pool but maintain a consistent temperature, ideal for regular swimmers who want a stable, warm environment.

Several factors are involved when choosing between a pool heat pump or a gas heater. We must consider our climate, budget, environmental impact, and maintenance preferences to make the right decisions for our needs.

Consider Your Climate

• Heat pumps work well in warmer climates but struggle in frigid temperatures.
• Most heat pumps work down to 50°F; some models (e.g., Hayward) work at 40°F.
• Natural gas and propane heaters work in colder weather and are suitable for winter use or cold night spa parties.

Evaluate Your Budget

• Heat pumps might have higher upfront costs, but they will be cheaper.
• Gas heaters can be purchased cheaper but can have higher monthly costs.

Maintenance

• Heat pumps must be regularly checked with occasional cleaning but with less maintenance costs.
• Gas heaters need more regular servicing due to gas-related issues.

Hire a Pro to Install Your Pool Heater

When choosing between a pool heat pump or gas heater, consider the following factors: heating speed, lifespan, energy efficiency, climate suitability, and cost. Gas heaters are suitable for last-minute swims; heat pumps take longer to heat the water. Heat pumps last 10-15 years, and gas heaters last 7-10 years. Heat pumps are more energy efficient, so they lower operating costs. They work best in moderate climates; gas heaters work even in colder temperatures. Heat pumps have higher upfront costs, but lower maintenance costs can offset that. The choice depends on your specific needs and circumstances; weighing these factors can help you make an informed decision.

Not sure which heater is right for your backyard? From Bee Cave to Georgetown, our technicians can evaluate your existing equipment and recommend the most cost-effective heating solution for you.

At Aqua Clear Pool Care, we specialize in pool service and helping pool owners like you make the best choices for your pool and lifestyle. If you’re still unsure which option suits your needs, reach out to us today for expert advice and professional installation services. Let us take the guesswork out of your decision so you can enjoy your pool year-round with ease!