A swimming pool heater allows you to start swimming earlier in the year and stay out in the water a little later in the season. Usually the heater is installed after the pump and filter system are in place. Following are the main types of pool heaters:

Gas- and oil-fired heaters
These are currently the most common choices. In recent years, energy efficiency for these heaters has nearly doubled. They’re a good choice for pools that aren’t used on a regular basis because they heat the water quickly. Unlike other heaters, they maintain an even water temperature even if the air temperature fluctuates. They typically last about five years. Oil-fired heaters are often used in more-remote areas where natural gas is unavailable. See more about gas swimming pool heaters.

Heat pumps
Heat pumps, which use electricity, cost more than double the price of gas units but use a lot less energy and last longer. They work best in warmer climates where the air temperature remains above 45 or 50 degrees Fahrenheit because they borrow warmth from the surrounding air in order to do the job. They capture heat and move it from one place to another, but they don’t generate heat.

Solar heaters
These are growing in popularity and in efficiency. They cost a lot initially—usually between $3,000 and $4,000 to buy and install—but have very low operating costs. According to the EPA, they last longer than gas or heat pump heaters—usually from 10 to 20 years with proper maintenance—and can provide a payback in seven years or less depending on local fuel costs. If you’re interested in this option, it’s a good idea to have your site evaluated. If you do decide to go solar, have a qualified solar thermal systems contractor install your system. See more about solar swimming pool heaters.

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