Home > Greenville Pools Blog > Heating Your Outdoor Pool

Everyone knows how enjoyable outdoor pools can be, as they offer a cool oasis in the sweltering heat of summer. But when the weather grows cooler, it’s easy to feel melancholy, since your pool won’t be in use for a while. Fortunately, installing a heating system for your outdoor pool can easily extend your swimming season by keeping the water at a comfortable temperature even when the weather is cooler.

Heating Your Outdoor Pool

Two excellent options for heating your pool include gas heaters and heat pumps, which both come with their own unique set of strengths.

  • Gas Heaters – Gas heaters are one of the most popular choices for heating outdoor pools, as they can quickly bring the water in your pool to the optimal temperature, regardless of the conditions outdoors. Even on the chilliest days, you can enjoy your outdoor pool in perfect comfort. Although annual maintenance is a good idea, once you have it installed, a quality gas heater is expected to remain in optimal working condition for about five years.
  • Heat Pumps – Another excellent option for heating outdoor pools is a heat pump. Instead of using gas, heat pumps use electricity to transfer the warmth of the surrounding air to the water in your pool. Since heat pumps are dependent on the surrounding air temperature to function, heat pumps are effective only when the outdoor temperature is at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit, unlike gas heaters, which can warm your pool no matter the weather. However, heat pumps are more energy efficient than gas heaters and last twice as long on average. They can also be used to cool the water in your outdoor pool when temperatures are especially warm.

Which Option Is the Best Fit for You?

Whether you prefer a gas heater to quickly bring your pool to the optimum temperature or are more interested in the versatile heating and cooling options of heat pumps, at Greenville Pools, we will be happy to share our expertise in the swimming pool industry and discuss which option best suits your needs.