Pool Heaters: Heat that Cool Water!

What a great September / October we have had thus far—the weather has just been phenomenal! We have had some warm days followed by cool days and even cooler nights, which has resulted in lower pool water temperatures.

Average pool water temperatures in the Denton area are now in the low 70’s—of course this depends on if the pool is shaded, if it has a dark surface, etc. According to the National Oceanographic Data Center, 70-78 degrees is where most people feel comfortable swimming. I am not sure who “most people” are, but from what I have observed, 70-78 degrees is a bit cold for most of us north Texans. Most of us seem to prefer between 80-84 degrees, but it really depends on the individual and what type of swimming is being done.

But for those who heat their pools this time of year, comfortable swimming will take place for at least another month or two. Pool owners who have heaters use them to take the chill out of the water on those warm days when the water is still too cold—like right now.

Pool heaters, in the north Texas area, can stretch the swim season from 5-6 months per year to 9-10 months per year. Due to this fact, now would be an excellent time to consider having a swimming pool heater installed. Having a heater on your pool can assure that you are able to swim from February/March thru November/December.

Pool heaters use one of two fuels—natural gas or propane, depending on what is available. Electric heaters are fine for stand-alone hot tubs, but not cost-effective enough to heat an entire swimming pool.

The basic principle of the pool heater is simple. A gas burner tray creates heat. The heat rises through the cabinet of the heater, raising the temperature of the water that is passing through the coils.

Vast improvements have been made to swimming pool heaters over the past several years, which allow them to be more efficient, cost-effective, and reliable. Another reason that contributes to an increase in pool heater sales is the fact that homeowners do not want to spend $60,000 to $100,000+ on a swimming pool and only be able to use it for six months out of the year.

Cost of a pool heater installed is typically $4,000-$6,000.

• The $4,000 cost is the approximate cost to replace an existing heater.
• The $6,000 cost is the approximate cost to install a heater on a pool that doesn’t currently have one—the increased cost is for the gas line, equipment pad, plumbing, etc.

If you would like a free estimate on a pool heater, give us a call at (940)384-7665.