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How Much Does It Cost to Heat a Pool?
5 minute read • Last update December 2024
Did you know that over 800,000 Texan homes have a swimming pool? If you’re one of them, you already know that pool heater installation can extend the swimming season, keeping the water at a comfortable temperature year-round.
But how much does it cost to heat a pool? For many homeowners, balancing comfort and cost is key. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about heating pools, including:
- The average swimming pool heater cost per month
- Variations between electric, solar, propane, and gas pool heater costs
- Additional factors impacting upfront cost and installation
- Tips for making maximum energy savings on pool heater use
How much does it cost to heat a pool per month?
The cost of heating a pool can vary significantly depending on your heater’s fuel source. Plus, monthly pool heater costs may not always be stable. For example, calculating a precise electric pool heater cost per month can be tricky in areas with unpredictable or rapidly changing weather patterns. Similarly, using a gas or propane heater can result in significant cost swings when the price of fuel increases or supply becomes limited.
But how much does it cost to heat a pool on average? Here is a table to help you estimate your monthly pool heater cost based on the type of heating system you choose.
| Type of Pool Heater | Average Monthly Cost of a Pool Heater | Details |
| Electric heaters | $100 – $250 | An electric heater is generally affordable but consumes more power, especially when maintaining higher temperatures. |
| Natural gas heaters | $150 – $350 | Natural gas is particularly efficient for heating a large pool quickly though monthly costs fluctuate based on usage. |
| Propane heaters | $200 – $450 | Using a standalone propane tank typically leads to higher operating costs but provides effective heating, especially for smaller pools. |
| Solar heater | $20 – $60 | Solar pool heaters have minimal additional costs after installation but rely on sunny weather for consistent performance. |
| Heat pumps | $75 – $200 | Electric heat pumps offer a cost-effective solution with relatively low operating costs, especially in moderate climates. |
Factors impacting your cost
Aside from the fuel source, the cost to heat pool water may also be influenced by several other factors. Here’s a list of key considerations:
- Location: If your home doesn’t have access to a natural gas line hookup, your options will likely be limited to an electric or solar pool heater system.
- Climate: Homes in cooler climates use more energy to maintain a comfortable swimming pool temperature. Plus, heating is required more often and for longer periods, increasing the overall cost.
- Pool size: The larger your pool, the longer it will take to heat, the more energy it will use, and the higher the overall pool heater price will be.
- Pool cover: Insulating your outdoor pool with a solar cover when not in use prevents heat loss. By keeping your pool warm overnight, you’ll reduce the heating costs of raising the pool’s temperature again the following day.
- Permits: If you plan on using a natural gas heater or solar heater, you may require a permit to cover work on gas lines and panels, which will increase your pool heater installation cost by a few hundred dollars.
Understanding these factors can help you decide on the best heating solution based on your current budget and long-term needs.
How much does a pool heater cost?
The purchase price and cost to install a pool heater vary considerably depending on the type of system you choose. Here’s a quick breakdown of price estimates, new pool heater installation costs, and the primary pros and cons for each option.
Electric pool heater cost breakdown
Electric pool heaters typically cost between $1,500 and $3,500. The installation process involves connecting the heater to your inground pool’s filtration system and electrical supply, which usually costs $500 to $1,500 in electrician fees.
- Pros: Easy installation, affordable upfront cost.
- Cons: Higher energy consumption, especially in cold climates.
Natural gas pool heater cost breakdown
Natural gas heaters usually cost between $1,500 and $4,000. Installing one in your backyard pool requires a professional plumber or gas technician to ensure connections are safe and meet local building codes. You should expect to pay $800 to $2,000 for installation.
- Pros: Heats quickly, ideal for larger pools, and uses a widely available fuel source.
- Cons: Expensive operational costs and requires a gas line.
Propane pool heater cost breakdown
Propane heaters can cost anything from $2,000 to $4,500. The tank can be a large, permanent installation or a smaller, standalone setup. Either way, professional installation is required to ensure proper operation and safety. This generally costs $1,000 to $2,500.
- Pros: Effective for small to medium-sized pools, portable.
- Cons: Expensive fuel costs and less energy-efficient than other types.
Solar pool heater cost breakdown
Solar systems typically cost between $2,000 to $5,000. Installation ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 and can be complex, requiring permits and professional expertise to ensure optimal positioning and system integration.
- Pros: Cost-effective after installation, eco-friendly, and has a long lifespan.
- Cons: Higher upfront costs, weather dependent, slower heating times.
Heat pump pool heater cost breakdown
Heat pumps typically cost $2,000 to $4,500 to purchase. Because they are connected to your filtration system, an electrical connection is required, and the unit must be placed in an area that allows for optimal air circulation. Electric heat pump installation is relatively simple and usually costs $500 to $2,500.
- Pros: Energy-efficient, reliable, well suited to moderate climates.
- Cons: Slower heating, requires electricity, and is not ideal for extreme climates.
Tips for saving on pool heating costs
Whichever type of inground pool heaters you decide on, there are several ways you can save money on your energy bills when swim season comes around. Here’s a list of actionable tips that could lead to significant savings.
- Choose the smallest heater for your pool size to minimize energy consumption—bigger isn’t always better!
- Get quotes from multiple heated pool professionals to find the best installation price.
- Set your pool temperature a few degrees lower when the ambient air temperature allows.
- Keep your pool clean to ensure efficient heat transfer and prevent debris from clogging your system.
- Stay on top of maintenance tasks like cleaning gas and propane heaters or pool heat pump coils.
- Make a heating schedule. Working out how much to heat a pool and when can save households a fortune in heating costs when there’s no one swimming to feel the benefit.
- Avoid using your pool heater in the extreme cold when it must work harder to maintain a suitable temperature.
By applying these simple yet effective tips, you can properly heat your pool while keeping costs down, ensuring you can enjoy all your home’s lifestyle spaces without breaking the bank.
Save on electricity plans with BKVE
By understanding the costs associated with heating and applying the right energy-saving tips, you can make full use of your pool year-round. But that’s not the only way to ensure worry-free pool use. Choosing the right energy plan is also essential.
At BKVE, we offer a range of tailored options based on your household’s usage patterns. So, you can go ahead and plan your next pool party with confidence—without worrying about your energy bill.
Ready to save? Check out our gimmick-free electricity plans and see how much you could save. Our tried-and-tested Bluebonnet plan helps many Texans save up to $800 annually!
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