You want to get the most out of the pool. It doesn’t make sense to get one and just let it sit unused. Heating your pool will help you extend the number of days that you can use it. You’ll be able to use your pool throughout the colder months, if you choose the right heating system. There are two main systems out there: solar heating and heat pumps. Here’s a little bit about each.

Solar Pool Heating

A solar heater harnesses the power of the sun to heat your pool. The pool pump sends the water through the filter and into the solar collector. The warmed water is then returned to your pool. It costs almost nothing to run and very little to maintain. It’s environmentally friendly, and a solar heater will last 20 years or longer. However, solar pool heaters are more expensive than other types of heaters. This cost could be earned back in as little as two years depending on the cost of fuel. Solar pool heaters also heat the pool much slower than heat pumps.

Heat Pumps

An electric heat pump takes the heat from the air and uses it to on your pool. They work great as long as the outside temperature remains above 45 degrees. They’re also flexible because they heat the pool quickly—you don’t have to leave it turned on. They’re less expensive to purchase and install, but more expensive to operate if you don’t have a pool cover. They also last about 10 years or half the lifespan of a solar pool heater.

Which One Wins?

Over the long run, solar pool heaters win hands down. The operating costs are so low, and they’re durable. For this reason, solar is the best choice for anyone who take into account the long term benefit.

However, many people may find that solar pool heaters are just too much of an upfront expense, especially if they are dealing with the costs of the associated pool installation in Atlanta. In those cases, it may make sense to get an electric heat pump for the short term. When the pool owner is able to get the solar pool heater, he or she can store the electric pump and save a lot of money. Either way, a heater for the pool will improve your usage of it. If you’re interested in pool heaters, give the experts at Hilltop Pools and Spas today.