Heat Pump vs. Gas Heater: Which Is Better for a Florida Pool?
By Brent, owner · State-certified pool/spa contractor · 2 min read
Once it dips into the 60s, a lot of Hernando County pools sit unused until spring. A heater can easily add a few months of swimming. The big question is which kind: a heat pump or a gas heater.
For most pools around here, I recommend a heat pump. There are a couple of cases where gas makes more sense, though.
How each one works
A heat pump works like your air conditioner in reverse. It pulls heat out of the outside air and moves it into the pool water. It doesn't create heat; it moves it, and that makes it very efficient. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat pumps put out 3 to 7 units of heat for every unit of electricity they use.
A gas heater (natural gas or propane) burns fuel to heat the water directly. New gas heaters are about 89–95% efficient. They heat water fast, and they work no matter how cold it is outside.
Side by side
| Heat pump | Gas heater | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost to run | Much lower | Higher |
| Upfront cost | Higher | Lower |
| Heating speed | Slow and steady | Fast |
| Works best | When it's above about 45–50°F outside | Any temperature |
| Typical lifespan | 10+ years | 5+ years |
| Best for | Keeping the pool warm for the season | Heating a spa quickly or occasional use |
(Figures from the U.S. Department of Energy.)
What I usually recommend
Heat pump if you want your pool warm through fall, winter and spring. Our winters are mild enough that a heat pump runs well most days, and it costs far less to run over time than gas.
Gas if you have a spa you want hot quickly, or you only heat the pool now and then, like for a holiday weekend. Some homes with a pool and spa use both.
Either way, size matters. A heater that's too small will run constantly and never catch up. I size heaters based on your pool's surface area, how much wind and shade it gets, and how warm you want it.
Control it from your phone
Many newer heat pumps can connect to automation systems like PoolSync, so you can set your temperature and schedule from an app. I upgraded a heat pump in the Weeki Wachee area with PoolSync; you can see it on the projects page.
Thinking about heating your pool? Call (352) 773-0088 or request a free quote. I install and repair heat pumps and heaters throughout Spring Hill, Brooksville and Hernando County.
