Top 4 Benefits of Using an Electric Pool Heater

An electric pool heater is one of the most popular devices for keeping pool water warm during the winter. Also known as a heat pump, an electric pool heater warms up your pool by sucking some water into a heating tank and then pumping the warm water back into your pool. The constant exchange of warm and cold water keeps your pool fit for swimming even during the winter.

When researching a method of heating the water in your swimming pool you will find different systems, all have their advantages and disadvantages, in this article we will discuss water-source heat pumps and air source heat pumps. We hope this helps you make an educated decision.

Some air-source heaters can be used to both heat and cool your swimming pool. These heaters are referred to as reverse-cycle heat pumps, or chillers. As its name suggests, a reverse-cycle heat pump cools your swimming pool by reversing its refrigeration cycle. By heating your swimming pool during winter months and cooling your pool during summer months, a reverse-cycle heat pump ensures that your swimming pool maintains comfortable swimming temperatures year round.

When explaining the reliability of heat pumps to consumers, many heat pump experts here at AquaCal^® use the same analogy: A heat pump is as reliable as your refrigerator or air conditioner!

If you properly install and maintain your heat pump, its lifespan can exceed ten years twice that of a gas heater! You should therefore have a qualified heat pump professional and a licensed electrician install your heater, as they will know all relevant placement, plumbing, and electrical requirements. You should also hire a qualified heat pump professional to perform annual maintenance on your unit. Most pool heaters are made of materials designed to last in the outdoor swimming pool environment, but malfunctions like improper water flow can severely damage internal components.

This type of pool heating system is more reliable and efficient compared to other types of pool heating systems. Although electric heaters are a bit more expensive than the traditional gas powered heaters, it consumes less energy than the gas powered type so you end up spending less money on your heating bills. In the long run, your electric pool heater will cost you a lot less than the traditional propane gas-powered heaters. Moreover, an electric heater does not emit carbon dioxide like the gas powered heater so you get to help reduce the amount of carbon in the air.

A pool heaters low operating costs make it a great long-term swimming pool heating investment. It has a much higher rate of return than a gas heater or an electric resistance heater. Also, when maintained properly, you can expect your pool heater to last for about 10 to 15 years without needing replacement. Propane gas-powered pool heaters on the other hand only last an average of 5 years.

Hopefully this article helps you in your search for a heating system. For a complete discussion on swimming pool heating methods, you can read The Definitive Guide to Heating Your Swimming Pool. As always, feel free to leave any thoughts or questions in the comments section below!