How Does a Propane Pool Heater Work?
Learn the Secret to Enjoying Your Pool More
When spring comes early to Connecticut and Westchester, and then winter returns for a few more weeks, it can feel like it will never be warm enough to enjoy the pool—or any of our outdoor living areas. Adding a propane pool heater can make a big difference—and let you enjoy your pool more.
A pool heater takes the chill off—it doesn’t turn your pool into a hot tub—so you can enjoy your pool earlier in the spring and later in the fall, not to mention earlier in the morning and, well, later in the evening, too!
Propane Pool Heater FAQ
Here are the answers to the most common questions we get about propane pool heaters:
How does a propane pool heater work? Propane pool heaters work a lot like a tankless water heater, which is why they are so efficient at heating your pool’s water quickly. Water passes through a combustion chamber where it’s rapidly heated by copper coils before it flows back into your pool.
Why propane? Propane is the most efficient choice for a pool heater because a propane pool heater will produce more heat, and warm up the water in your pool or spa much faster than an electric heater. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a propane-powered pool heater can achieve as much as 95% efficiency. Propane heaters also do a better job at maintaining the temperature once the water is warm. As a result, propane pool heaters help you keep heating costs under control, while letting you enjoy your pool earlier more.
Why not electric? An electric pool heater will take much longer to bring the water to a comfortable temperature. They work more like a heat pump, pulling warm air in, heating it, and heating the water. And as the outside temperature gets cooler, an electric pool heater has to work harder to heat the water—and keep it warm—which drives up your energy costs.
Are there other options? In addition to propane and electric pool heaters, you could opt for a solar pool heater. But a solar pool heater requires an area equal to at least at least 50%, and up to 100% (and occasionally more), of your pool’s surface to work properly. So unless you have a lot of space, there are some drawbacks to that option. Also, the system needs to be mounted on a framework in your yard (not pretty!) or on your roof, and your pool’s pump has to run the water through the system to heat it. So, while the solar energy is technically free (once you’ve paid for the system), you may see a big spike in electric bills as your pool pump works overtime moving the water through. They also don’t work when it’s dark.
The Bottom Line
In addition to being a highly efficient way to heat water, propane is a clean-burning fuel, so you’ll save energy and reduce your home’s carbon footprint, too. If you already use propane to heat your home, your water or any other appliances, it’s the smart choice for your pool heater too.
Casey has a great selection of propane-powered equipment and accessories to complement your outdoor living spaces—from patio heaters to lighting to grills and so much more—even insect control! Contact us for more information today.