Reasons WHY you need a pool heater:

• You want to open your pool early in the year or keep it open longer for swimming season

• You want to increase the value of your pool and your property

• Your pool may not be completely exposed to the natural sunlight and may not heat naturally

• Swimming in a cold environment may prove harmful

• You like to swim early or late in the day when there is no sunlight to warm your pool

• You just love to be able to cannonball into the pool without the fear of going in a hypothermic shock

Let’s see different types of pool heaters available:

• Pool heater: These are heaters that run on electricity or propane/ gas and work to generate heat. They do not require outside temperature to be warm. Gas / propane heaters generate heat by burning fuel in a combustion chamber. The water flows through the copper coil and draws heat from the chamber and into the pool. These heaters can heat the water to as quickly as 1-3 degrees in an hour. This is a good option for people who use their pools occasionally. To enjoy a warm, cozy pool turn on the heater a few hours before using the pool

• Heat pump: It uses the natural environment to heat the pool. It absorbs the heat from air and turns it into gas. Compressor further heats up the gas and the heat is transferred to the cold water that passes through the pump thus making the water warm. Such pools are more effective in places with warmer climate. Colder climates may require more energy for the pump to heat the pool. Heat pumps require less energy as compared to heaters, thus being energy and cost efficient

• Electric heater: Electric pool heaters run completely on electricity. They serve as energy efficient option, do not contribute to air pollution, are much faster and comparatively cost less. Electric heaters are useful for smaller pools and using them for heating larger pools may not bring out their max efficiency and thus these heaters lead to higher operating & maintenance costs. Electric heaters consume a lot of energy and may not be as long lasting when than others

• Solar heater: Solar heater consists of solar collectors, filters, pump and control valves. They function by pumping water from the pool to the filter and passing it through solar collectors before going back into the pool. For solar heater to work efficiently they need at least 5-6 hours of unobstructed sunlight.

There are 2 types of solar heaters: Glazed and Unglazed.

1. Unglazed solar panels are usually made from durable UV-treated rubber or plastic. They are more economical.

2. Glazed solar panels are made from copper tubing with a glass coating. These are more efficient and last longer than unglazed panels. Since these panels are made of expensive materials, they cost higher than unglazed panels.

Climate plays a very important role in selecting a perfect pool heater. If you live in southern part where the climate is much warmer & plentiful sunlight, a solar heater or a heat pump is a good choice. Gas/propane heaters are better choice if you live in the northern parts.