Which pool heater is better: Solar or Gas?

Pool owners have a few options when it comes to heating their pools. You could utilise a range of solar, gas or even electricity powered pool heating options. Solar pool heating is one of the most popular latest trends in pool heating. But solar pool heaters are only as good as the solar panels or roof-mounted strip collectors that they rely on, so it's important to find out if your solar collector systems will be able to produce enough warmth for your pool before deciding which type of pool heater you should get.

On the other hand, gas-powered heaters can often provide more consistent and constant heat than solar does - but gas pool heaters aren't renewable sources of energy. So what kind of pool heater should you choose? This article will discuss both types and help you decide which one is best for your needs.

Solar Pool Heaters

Let’s face it… pools can be expensive. You don’t want to add to that cost by having an expensive pool heater.

Solar pool heaters are cost-effective to operate. They utilise sunlight to heat the water using a solar collector which is installed on your roof.

The collector is attached to a pump and filter. The pool water flows from the pool up to the collector pipes on the roof which warm the water using thermal conduction, and water is then returned this is facilitated using a pump. Solar heaters are low-maintenance - the heaters have fewer moving parts. So nothing breaks, nothing to fix and your heater can last a long time.

Is solar pool heating worth it?

Advantages of solar pool heaters

• Good for the environment - uses a renewable source of green energy from the sun
• Low operating and maintenance costs
• Highly energy efficient
• Can last for 15-20 years
• Keep the pool warm and comfortable for your swim session

Disadvantages:

• The initial investment can be expensive
• The solar heater will not be effective in cold weather conditions

Gas Pool Heaters

A gas-powered pool heater is a more traditional option for heating your pool. It works by burning natural gas or propane to heat copper coils, the pool water heats up as it passes through the coils. The water is then transferred back to the pool. A gas-powered pool heater can heat the pool or spa quickly.

Gas heaters use more energy than solar heating systems do, however, a gas pool heater works even on cloudy days so it is the best choice if you want your pool heated all year round. Gas systems can be costly in terms of both purchase price and energy costs.

Advantages of gas pool heating

• The initial purchase cost is lower often than solar pool heating systems
• It can be used to heat pool water even in cold weather
• Gas-powered pool heaters can heat the water very quickly

Disadvantages

• They are not environmentally friendly and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions
• The operating costs are higher than solar heaters
• They can have a shorter lifespan compared to solar pool heaters

There is no definitive answer when it comes to solar or gas pool heaters - it depends on your specific needs and situation. Solar pool heating is more environmentally-friendly, but a gas heater will be more efficient for heating your pool quickly. Deciding which type of pool heater is best for you can be a difficult decision. Talk to our expert plumbers to find out which option is the best for you.