Which is Right For You?

Performance & Use

Solar Pool Heaters are best for recreational pool use and are recommended for those who are comfortable with pool temperatures ranging from the mid to high 20's. Solar works year round in northern climates, and extends the season in southern climates. There may be periods during inclement weather that the pool is too cool to use; however, several sunny days will bring the pool back to a comfortable temperature. Proper sizing is critical for good performance.

Performance & Use

For those who enjoy swimming regardless of the weather, a Heat Pump is the recommended method. It is also the preferred method for therapy or athletic trainers, and also when a home is not "solar feasible" (i.e. solar will not fit on roof.) A heat Pump, when properly sized, can maintain any desired pool temperature between 25 - 30 degrees, regardless of outside weather conditions. A Heat Pump will work when the outside air temperature is above 10 degrees.

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 for a spa.

How Does It Work?

Solar Heaters utilize the sun's free heat and do not have an operating cost.  Your existing pool pump circulates the water through the heater, usually located on the roof, and warms the pool.  The pump timer is set to operate during sunlight hours, usually 9am to 5pm.

How Does It Work?

A Heat Pump uses electricity to operate.  They are actually a form of solar heater, as the sun-warmed air contributes to the efficiency of these units. This heat is extracted from the air, upgraded with a compressor, and then transferred to the water.

How Does It Work?

Gas Heaters use natural or LPG 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 kit cost range:
$1000 - $4800

Installation cost:
$500 - $2500

Typical 8 x 4m
free-form pool:
Standard Kit $2500
$3800 Installed

System and
Installation Cost

System unit cost range:
 $2400 - $4600

Installation cost:
$350 - $950

Typical 8 x 4m pool:
$4400 Unit
$4800 Installed + Electrics

System and
Installation Cost

System unit cost range:
$2875 - $5400

Installation cost:
$350 - $850

Typical 8 x 4 pool:
$2700 Unit
$2900 Installed + Gas Line

Energy Rating & Efficiency

Solar systems are rated at an average day temperature of 28 Degrees Celsius. The average output is 1KW per SQM. The efficiency of this system is directly proportional to environmental temperatures.  The warmer the weather the warmer your pool.

Energy Rating & Efficiency

The manufacturer determines the KW output at a specific water/air temperature and relative humidity value. To accurately compare one unit to another, these test values must be the same, or the comparison will be distorted.  Heat pumps are also given a COP (coefficient of performance) rating, generally 3 to 6 COP, which converts to an efficiency of 300 to 600%.

Energy Rating & Efficiency

Gas Heaters are rated in BTU output, and are tested by government standards.  Their efficiency ranges from 60 to 95%. Efficiency may decrease over a period of time due to scaling in the burner or heat exchanger.

Cost of Operation

Solar is an alternative energy source, and has no cost of operation. The pool pump must run for the solar heater to function, and may increase your electric bill by $30 to $210 per year depending on your normal filtering time and which sort of solar system you are running.

Cost of Operation

Due to their high efficiency, heat pumps have a low cost of operation. Typically, for every 20 cents of electric input, you receive $1.00 worth of heat. The typical pool averages $250 to $1500 per year for heat.  This is also dependant on run times, winter being more expensive.

Cost of Operation

A gas heater for a spa is very cost efficient with costs averaging $100 per year. The typical pool however averages $500 to $1500 per year for heating with Natural Gas.  LPG gas is approximately 50% more.

Size Heater Required

Generally you will need a system equal to 60 to 120% of the pool surface.  Solar from systems can be supplied in panel form or custom made to suit modern roofs.  The size required will vary depending on location, wind chill, shading, size and colour of pool.

Size Heater Required

Heat pump sizes are rated by horsepower and KW output. Standard sizes are available in single and three phase.  The average pool 40000L pool would require a minimum of 16 KW unit.

Size Heater Required

Gas Heaters produce huge amounts of heating power.  A 200Mj will produce 40Kw of heating power, enough for up to an 80000L swimming pool

Longevity and Maintenance

A quality Solar Heater will typically last 10 to 20 years. They are very low maintenance. All of our systems have a 10 year warranty or more. 

Longevity and Maintenance

Heat Pumps will last between 5 and 10 years or more, depending on the quality.  Heat pumps are a mechanical device with many moving and electrical parts, they require periodic service by a A/C technician. Our warranty is up to 10 years on parts and 3 years on labor.

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 3 years on parts and Labor.