Heating an above ground pool can extend your swimming season and enhance your pool experience. At Leisure King, the Kayak^® Pool Guys, we’ve been helping families enjoy their pools to the fullest for almost thirty years. We have witnessed firsthand what works and what doesn’t work when heating an above ground pool. We’d like to share what we’ve learned about heating an above-ground pool and what you can expect with different heating methods.

Above Ground Pool Heating Options

There are several ways to heat an above ground pool, each with its own advantages.

Solar Covers

Solar covers are an affordable and eco-friendly option. They capture and retain heat from the sun, warming your pool water naturally. Expect a gradual increase in temperature and reduced evaporation.

Solar Heaters

A solar heater can be installed and connected to your pool. Solar heaters absorb sunlight and convert it into heat, which can be transferred to your pool water. This option is more efficient than other heater options but is dependent on the direction of the sun, the time of day, the time of year, and the weather.

Electric Heaters

Electric heaters are easy to install and can heat your pool quickly. They’re ideal for smaller pools or for those who don’t use their pool frequently. However, they can increase your electricity bill.

Gas Heaters

Gas heaters are powerful and can heat your pool rapidly, making them perfect for cooler climates or last-minute heating needs. However, they require a gas line and are more expensive to operate than electric heaters, as the fuel source can be pricy.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps, such as the AquaCal^® Heat Pump, offer an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for maintaining the perfect temperature in your above ground pool. 

These energy-efficient pumps utilize heat from the air, providing significant savings compared to traditional gas and electric heaters. AquaCal Heat Pumps feature a microprocessor-controlled system with a digital display for accurate temperature settings, a Thermalink titanium heat exchanger for fast and efficient heating, and a quiet scroll compressor for reliability and durability. Relative to other heating methods, AquaCal Heat Pumps create a more manageable monthly expense and are more eco-friendly.

Considerations for Heating Your Pool

When deciding how to heat your above ground pool, consider the following.

Pool Size

The size of your pool will determine the type of heater you need. Larger pools require more powerful heaters, while smaller pools can be heated efficiently with smaller units or solar covers.

Climate

Your local climate will impact your heating choice. Solar options are more effective in sunny regions, while a heater or heat pump may be necessary in cooler areas.

Usage

Consider how often you use your pool and how warm you want it to be. If you’re a frequent swimmer or prefer warmer water, a more powerful heating system may be needed.

Budget

Heating your pool comes with initial costs and ongoing expenses. Balance your upfront investment with the long-term operating costs to find a solution that fits your budget.

Tips for Efficient Pool Heating

To get the most out of your pool heating system, follow these tips.

Use a Pool Cover

A pool cover can significantly reduce heat loss, especially at night. It’s a simple and effective way to retain warmth in your pool.

Maintain Your Heater

Regular maintenance ensures that your heater operates efficiently. Clean filters and check for any signs of wear and tear.

Optimize Your Heating Schedule

Heat your pool during off-peak hours to save on energy costs. Consider using a timer to control your heater’s operation.

Insulate Your Pool

Proper insulation can prevent heat loss. Ensure that your pool walls and floor are well-insulated, especially if you live in a cooler climate.

What to Expect

Heating your above ground pool can transform your swimming experience. Expect warmer water, extended swimming seasons, and more enjoyable pool time with family and friends. Be prepared that heating your above ground pool will carry an initial setup cost, and operating your pool will cost more depending on the heating method you choose. However, it can be more than worth it for the extended swim season. Reach out to Leisure King, the Kayak Pool Guys, for advice on how to heat your above ground pool.