Pool Heaters Can Keep Your Water Comfortable
There's nothing like having your own swimming pool to splash around in. When sunlight is not strong enough to warm the water to a comfortable level, you can handle that on your own. Pool heaters can be powered by various sources and set to your preferred temperature.
What are the main sources of power for this equipment?
These heaters require a reliable source of energy, which could be any of the following:
- Natural gas: This is considered a very efficient way to heat water, since the temperatures created by burning natural gas in your furnace are quite high. These models may not need to run as frequently as other types in order to do the same amount of work. Their initial costs may be higher, however.
- Propane: If you want to run your system on gas but don't have a natural gas line already in place, you can choose propane, which can be delivered to you and stored in a tank.
- Electric: With this system, cool pool water would be sent to a heating tank, and then warm water would be pumped out.
- Solar panels: Taking advantage of the sun's rays can be a smart move if you prefer to conserve energy. These units are quiet when they're running, and they work in conjunction with pumps that circulate the water. Solar panels are usually installed on roofs or nearby areas.
Can pool heaters be programmed?
Instead of just having the option of turning your heater on or off, you can set up a more customized program. This may be a more expensive option in terms of upfront costs, but it could be worth it if you use your swimming pool only at certain times and don't want to heat it when it's idle. In some models, a control panel would be located on, or next to, the heat pump itself, and additional panels could be installed in another convenient location.
What are some companies that manufacturer these products?
You can find brand new as well as used heaters on eBay, in a range of prices to suit most budgets. Manufacturers that you'll see during your search could include the following:
- Hayward
- Pentair
- Intex
- Raypak