With summer officially here, backyard swimming pools have come out of hibernation and are being put to good use.
Many pool owners rely on water heaters to give water an extra boost or to extend swimming time to cooler evenings. Are you suing the most efficient water heater for your pool? Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative and the U.S. Department of Energy offer these guidelines for purchasing water heaters.
Solar Water Heaters are the least costly and most energy-efficient, and they can last 10 to 20 years. They operate using a system of solar panels, a pump, a filter and a flow control valve. Solar panels can be unglazed, which are less expensive, but cannot be used year-round like the glazed panels.
Gas Heaters use natural gas or propane to produce heat and are great for heating water quickly or for a short period of time. They are efficient for pools that aren’t used often, an unlike other heaters, they can maintain their heat in any weather or climate.
Heat Pump Water Heaters use electricity to capture heat from outside, making them more energy-efficient than gas heaters. They are the most efficient in climates that don’t drop below 45 to 50 degrees, which makes them ideal for summer use. They can cost more than gas heaters, but they typically cost less to operate and last longer.
All three types of heaters should be serviced regularly for longevity. To make your new pool heating system even more efficient, double it up with a solar pool cover, which keeps leaves and dirt out of the water while absorbing the sun’s heat and locking it in. Covers also keep water from evaporating, which can decrease the pool’s overall heat.