Above ground pool heaters are finding increased use since homeowners want to get more use out of their pools. They are being used to heat the pool’s water during the evening hours and in the cooler months. However, shoppers are faced with various types of pool heaters when they begin searching for a way to heat their pool’s water. The type of heater that is selected will depend on the individual’s budget for both the initial purchase cost and the unit’s operating cost, as well as the types of energy that they have available for the pool heater.

Gas pool heaters use either natural gas or liquid propane to heat the water. The choice between these two fuels chiefly depends on whether you are serviced by a natural gas company, since natural gas costs less than propane it would normally be the first choice. However, both of these energy sources are in abundant supply in the United States and are reasonably affordable. Gas heaters for above ground swimming pools are also favored by homeowners because they can increase the water temperature in a relatively short period of time and they have the ability to raise the water temperature higher that the other types of heaters.

Swimming pool heat pumps use the same principles as the heat pumps that warm your house. They utilize the thermodynamic properties of a refrigerant similar to Freon to transfer the ambient heat to the pool’s water. This is the reverse operation of a home’s central air-conditioning system in that an AC unit’s coldness results from the refrigerant’s expansion while a heat pump’s heat is a result of the fluid being compressed. Although a heat pump has a higher capital cost than a gas heater, the operating costs are generally lower than an equivalent capacity gas pool heater since they are more efficient in their operation.

Solar pool heaters use the sun’s radiant energy to heat swimming pools water. And although there is no direct cost with capturing this energy from the sun, there is an operating cost due to the fact that this water must be circulated through the solar panels. However, the largest drawbacks to solar pool heaters are the high capital cost, the complex plumbing system required and the large space requirements needed to site the solar panels.

While each of these pool heater technolgies can accomplish the same result to a varying degree, consideration must be given to your budget, your heating requirements and the technical aspects required of each type of heater. Your local pool professional will be able to resolve your questions and help you make the best choice for your individual situation.