There are various ways you can heat an above-ground pool, from using heaters and solar panels to optimizing your pool’s solar cover in your favor. Although pools have a much larger body of water than a hot tub, you might think heating it would be somewhat tricky. However, because swimming pools do not need to get nearly as hot as a hot tub, it might just be easier than you think to get to your desired temperature. Below, we’ll provide you with what you need to know to effectively heat your pool.
Using a Heat Pump
Although people will recommend a comfortable pool temperature of 78 to 82 degrees, many individuals typically set it to a higher reading. It’s entirely dependent on preference, and the higher you set your pool heater, the longer it will take to reach that desired temperature. The success rate of a heat pump is very specific to your climate. A heat pump takes the hot air from outside and converts it into heat for the pool, the temperature outside will need to be relatively warm. These pumps do not produce their own heat, but it might be the best option for you if you are only looking to use a pool when it’s warm outside in the summer months.
Using a Gas Pump
In contrast to a heat pump, a gas pump generates its own heat and does not rely on the outside temperatures. Gas pumps are fueled by either natural gas, propane, or electricity. Therefore, this is certainly a more expensive option, but it’s also arguably the most dependable. It doesn’t rely on any outside external factors to heat your pool, therefore you can get to a much higher temperature regardless of the weather but consistently keep it at that temperature.
Using a Solar Panel Heater
A solar panel heater is an inexpensive way to heat your above-ground pool. It works just like the previous ones do but uses solar energy instead. This type of heater depends on the sun, once again, the heat of your pool will rely on how much sun your solar area gets. In addition, a solar panel heater will likely include various parts, like a filter, pump, flow valve and collector. All of this equipment can take up quite a bit of space in your yard, so it’s best to ensure you have enough room for one.
Using a Solar Cover
This is an effective way to heat your pool and is arguably the cheapest way to do so. Using a solar cover prevents water from evaporating and attracts sun heat to your pool. Whenever your pool is not in use, throwing a solar cover on at night will help keep the temperature where you’d like it to be. Although this isn’t the fastest way to heat your pool alone, it can definitely be used in combination with any other options mentioned to help maintain the heat in your pool.
Using Solar Rings
Solar rings are ultimately round rings that you can put on top of your pool to stop evaporation and can be easily connected by magnets. They are easy to take out of the water whenever you’re ready to use the pool and are simple and inexpensive.
All of these options have their benefits and potential downsides; however, it’s always good to do a little research beforehand to decide which one is best for you and your home. You can look through your area to see about a pool store near you, and reach out to any local spa businesses if you feel like you’re unsure of which option will be best for you, your pool and your space.
Your budget will also influence this decision, so it’s best to compare each option, both in the short-term and long run. It also depends on how often you use your pool, climate, and even something as simple as how much sunlight your backyard might get. The solar heating options might not be feasible for some if your area doesn’t receive enough sunlight.
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