You might have had a ‘helpful’ friend tell you about their staggering power bill or a hot pool they never used. There are rumours about costs and pool covers and which heater is best. Here, we’ll tackle some of the biggest misconceptions about pool heaters.
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Myth 1: Gas pool heaters are the best option.
Many people think gas heaters are the most cost-effective option for heating pools because historically, gas had been cheap. Unfortunately, that isn’t true for today. The cost of gas has risen drastically over the past five years and it simply isn’t the most cost-effective way to heat your pool any more. You’ll get more bang for your buck out of electric heat pump pool heaters.
What’s true: gas heaters may not be economical, but they are fast. You can potentially heat a pool in around four hours using a gas heater, which makes them a flexible option: you can decide you want to swim when the weather’s cool and be in the water within hours.
Myth 2: Electric heat pump pool heaters are expensive.
There are two different types of cost: upfront and ongoing. Electric heat pumps can be slightly more to purchase and install, but long-term you’ll see enormous savings compared to gas heaters. Heat pumps don’t need to generate heat; instead, they use electricity to transfer heat from the air to your pool’s water. You can save even more on your energy costs if you have solar roof panels.
What’s true: Electric heat pumps are the most economical way to heat your pool long-term. You can use them to extend your swimming season anywhere in Australia, or even heat it year-round in warmer climates. It’s cheaper than gas heating and more reliable than a solar heating mat.
Myth 3: Solar heating isn’t a good option for most homes.
Solar heating is a little trickier than other pool heaters because it relies on warm weather and sunshine. You need to check for tall shady trees and the direction the sun travels over your property. Having said that, solar heating works brilliantly in Australia’s northern regions such as Queensland, northern New South Wales, Northern Territory and Western Australia.
What’s true: Solar heating is a great option as long as it suits what you want. You won’t be able to swim all year with solar heating, but you can get some extra swimming weeks in and maintain the temperature of your pool during the swim season. Solar heating is also a completely renewable resource and will cost next to nothing after it’s installed, which is a big tick for many pool owners.
Myth 4: Pool covers are ugly and don’t make a difference.
Pool covers prevent up to 70% heat loss on your pool. That’s actually a huge difference! Many people who install pool heating come back for a cover after their first swim season, because they realise how much heat is lost through evaporation and cooler nights. The less you need to run your heater the more you’ll save on your energy bill.
What’s true: modern pool covers are anything but ugly. They’re easy to manoeuvre and can be attached to spindles for easier removal and a tidy poolside. Covers can be made to fit pools of any size and shape and come in a variety of thicknesses. You can also look at a liquid pool cover to help ward off evaporation, although it won’t stop heat loss.
Myth 5: Pool heating is only for the summer months.
Yes, it’s cheaper to heat your pool in summer while the weather is warmer, but it’s entirely possible to keep it swimmable throughout winter. If you live in a warmer climate it’s an easy task. However, if you live in Tasmania or Victoria where winters are particularly chilly and windy you might find it’s not something you feel like doing even in a pool that’s 32 degrees Celsius!
What’s true: It’s up to you how long you want to run your pool heater. We know people in Queensland who run their pool at a balmy 28 degrees Celsius year-round and love it. It depends on the way you want to use your pool and how much you’re prepared to spend on energy costs.
Myth 6: You can’t mix-and-match pool heating systems.
This one has a ring of truth to it, but only because it makes more sense to stick to one heating system. Technically you could install an electric heat pump and solar heating and use the solar during sunny days, but it makes far more sense to install rooftop solar that can offset the cost of your heat pump and other energy your household uses.
What’s true: You can double up on systems, but it’s probably a better idea to work out which system suits what you need. Remember to ask a professional to help you size up your pool heating system to make sure you’re getting one that can heat your pool properly and economically.
Myth 7: Pool heat pumps are too noisy.
We’ve heard people say electric heat pumps are too noisy to run, but it all depends on the brand and size you choose. Most pumps are much quieter than an air conditioning unit, giving off just enough of a hum to let you know it’s working.
What’s true: You do need to think about the location of the heat pump. If you plan on running it during the day, it might be ok next to the house while everyone is out or being generally noisy. But, if you plan on running it at night it’s a good idea to position it somewhere near the garden or shed. A ventilated pool heater box can help mitigate the hum, too.
One final myth we can’t forget
Lastly, we often hear that people don’t think they’d use their pool outside of summer. So, if your question is, “Will I use my pool in autumn and spring?” we can tell you from our experience and hundreds of customers’ experiences that yes, you will!
Your pool is an enormous investment, and one that deserves to be maximised. Pools are a lifestyle improvement in so many ways; they’re great for your health, happiness and social wellbeing.
If you’re not sure about what type of pool heater would suit your backyard or how much it will cost, you can call our friendly team anytime. We’ll be able to give you a hand over the phone to help you get started.
