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To heat your pool or not to heat your pool? That is the question many people ask themselves this time of year. The more appropriate question is how best to heat your pool/spa as the reasons to add a heater far outweigh the reasons not to add one.
Why should you add a heater to your pool? You made the decision to make an investment in your home for your family by adding a swimming pool, so why not get more use out of it? Installing equipment to heat your pool increases the value of your home, and provides more time to entertain your family and friends outside, as well as extending the amount of time you can exercise in your pool.
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Solar Heating
Solar panels transfer the sun’s energy into heat for your pool. The only cost associated with solar is the initial expense of the equipment. Once installed, the warmth of the beautiful Florida sunshine will heat water for your pool for free! Some manufacturers of solar panels pledge a minimum 80°F water temperature between February 15 and December 1.
Placement of the panels is an important factor in the effectiveness of the solar heating. Southern exposure is the optimum location for the panels. Should you have any concerns on where to install the panels on your roof, contact your local pool company or solar installation company for a personal assessment.
Electric Heat Pumps
When comparing the costs of electric, gas and propane heaters, electric stands out as the most cost effective method of the three. This option is available any time at the flip of a switch, including weekends and holidays. With gas and propane, you have to watch the tank levels and remember to refill when needed.
Electric heat pumps are also available with dual thermostats so that you may heat your pool to one temperature, and your spa to another.
You can expect your heat pump to operate most efficiently at air temperatures of 70°F and higher. As air temperatures fall below 68°F, it becomes more difficult for the heat pump to be effective. If you select an electric heat pump, allow sufficient time for your pool to reach the desired temperature before swimming, generally increasing about 1° per hour.
Natural and Propane Gas
These methods offer the most rapid way to heat your pool and spa water. If you need to change the temperature in a short order of time, and/or you enjoy a lifestyle of spontaneous swimming activity, gas would be the best method for you.
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Ideal Heating Scenario
In the cooler months, an optimum solution would be to pair up the heating methods. For example, in addition to electric, gas or propane heating, keep your solar panels on at all times thereby maintaining the temperature. This will keep the water from dropping into the mid 60°s in the colder months, which is typical for Florida.
Another nice combination is the use of an electric heater for your pool, and a gas heater for your spa. You can enjoy your spa year round with this option and it will heat up very quickly when needed.
Whatever works best for you, remember, for energy conservation and maximum enjoyment, use a pool blanket. It will help retain the water’s heat much longer once the outside temperatures begin to drop. It also helps reduce evaporation from the pool this time of year. Hand and electric rollers for the blankets are available so it is easier to place and remove the blanket.
When considering your heating options, be sure to compare warranties on all products and contact your pool expert for guidance and answers to your questions.
By adding a heater to your pool, you can enjoy swimming in the evenings and most of the year in warmth and comfort! When your northern friends call and ask you what you are doing, you can say, “Swimming outside in the winter!” Florida living – you’ve got to love it!
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