Performance & Use
Gas is best for heating pools for short periods of time. Gas Pool Heaters are effective, but expensive to operate. They are ideal for quickly heating the pool when guests or children are visiting, or for a second home where the pool is not heated on a regular basis. Gas Heaters are generally over-sized and can easily maintain any desired temperature regardless of the weather. It is also an ideal heater or backup heater for a spa.
How Does It Work?
Gas Heaters use natural or propane fuel. The gas is burned in a combustion chamber where the heat is transferred to the pool water. Operation requires a storage tank for propane gas, or hookup to natural gas, where available.
System and Installation Cost
System unit cost range: $875 – $5400
Installation cost: $350 – $850
Typical 15×30 pool: $1300 Unit, $1650 Installed
Energy Rating & Efficiency
Gas Heaters are rated in BTU output, and are tested by government standards. Their efficiency ranges from 60 to 80%. Efficiency may decrease over a period of time due to scaling in the burner or heat exchanger.
Cost of Operation
The low efficiency of gas heaters result in a high cost of operation. $1.00 worth of heat requires $1.20 or more of fuel. The typical pool averages $1000 to $1500 per year for heat with propane. Natural gas is approximately 50% less.
Size Heater Required
Gas Heaters are rated by BTU output, and range from 75,000 BTU to 450,000 BTU. Gas heaters are normally located next to the pool pump and filter on a concrete slab.
Longevity and Maintenance
Gas Heaters typically last 5 years or more. Due to the high operating temperature inside a gas heater, maintenance may be more frequent, and major repairs can be costly. Warranties range from 1 to 5 years, usually only on parts.
