Even during fall and winter, you can enjoy your private swimming hole by installing a poolside heater. To hire a local pool heater installation professional, you may expect to pay between $1,700 and $4,000 to find and install the best heater for your needs. Depending on the model, some heaters may cost less or more than this estimate. When it comes to the final cost, the size of your pool and where you reside can play a role.
The Cost of Installing a Swimming Pool Heater by Type
You have a few alternatives when it comes to the vast world of swimming pool heaters. It is possible to find a pool heater suitable for any climate or pool size using four primary fuel sources. Regardless of the type of pool heater you use, you can expect to reap many advantages.
Propane or Gas Pool heater
In-ground and above-ground pool heaters of this type are the most frequent. These heaters run on gas or propane and are relatively easy to obtain and set up. In addition to the heater, which can cost you around $1000 to $4500, expect to pay $500 to $1,500 in labor costs.
A pool heater can be installed simultaneously as the pool itself, saving you money in the long run. Make sure to ask your contractor about it while you’re calculating the cost of building an above-ground pool.
Propane heaters require a separate tank, whereas gas heaters can connect to an existing gas line. Keep in mind that utilizing one of these heaters will cost you a lot of money each month.
Solar Pool Heater
Solar pool heaters are the most cost-effective way to heat a pool, but they can only be used regularly in locations where they receive direct sunshine. Warmer states like Florida and Arizona may find this beneficial, but colder ones like Minnesota and Colorado may not get the same benefits.
Equipment costs range from $2,001 to $7,500 while labor costs may range from $500 to $2,000 per unit. Your energy bill will be practically nonexistent despite the higher initial cost of solar heaters than gas heaters.
In-Ground Swimming Pool Heater
The water in this pool is heated by drawing in hot air from the atmosphere. Heat pumps require a separate electric circuit to function, which means that upfront expenses will be more than for other types of pool warmers.
Labor costs between $500 and $1,000, with a heat pump costing between $2000 and $6500. Even though these heaters are generally energy-efficient, they take longer to heat up than gas models.
The Pool Heat Pump
Extracted hot air is used to heat the water in this pool heater located outside. Compared to conventional pool heaters, heat pumps require a separate electric circuit to function.
Depending on the model, heat pumps range from $2,000 to $6,500. Installation costs range from $500 to $1,000. In terms of saving money on your power bill, these heaters are fairly energy efficient, but they take longer to heat up than gas models.
Electric Resistance Pool Heater
Installation is relatively inexpensive, but the heater will consume a lot of electricity when in operation. Smaller pools above 55 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal for electric resistance pool heaters. It costs $500 to $5,000 to install an electric pool heater, and the labor costs $500 to $1,000.
Factors Affecting Pool Heater Installation Cost
If you’re looking for a professional to install your pool heater, you’ll need to consider more than just the labor prices and the cost of the heater itself. This is a list of additional fees to consider:
Tossing out the Previous Heater
There will be a nominal cost to replace an old pool heater. The removal of the old unit will cost anywhere from $25 to $50, although most professionals will include this in the price of the new one. Some contractors may even do this for free if you’re putting in a new unit.
Assembling Connectors
Your choice of pool heater may need the installation of additional connectors. New gas lines for gas heaters can cost anywhere from $350 to $800. Installing an electrical circuit for heat pumps or electric resistance heaters might cost anything from $500 to $2,100.
From $350 to $1,900 will be needed for an experienced and competent local plumber to connect the heater to the pool. Expect to save between $500 and $1,500 if you use a pre-existing connection.
Energy Costs
The amount of money you spend on electricity each month is crucial when purchasing a pool heater. Because each type of heater operates uniquely, they all have a varied effect on your monthly utility bill.
If you use the main gas line, gas heaters will run you $200 to $400 per month; if you use propane, the cost will be $200 to $850 per month. A heat pump costs between $120 and $200 less per month to operate than an electric resistance heater, ranging from $175 to $600. Using a solar pool heater will cost you as little as $0 to $10 per month, making it the most cost-effective alternative.
With a pool heater, there are a few ways you can reduce your monthly utility costs:
Pool Cover
It is estimated that a simple pool cover can save 50% to 90% on energy bills. To buy and install one, it will cost $650–$2,000.
Solar Blanket
This type of blanket has a lot of air bubbles on the outside, which traps the heat emitted by the surface when exposed to direct sunlight. The blanket’s fabric transfers this heat to the pool’s water. A solar blanket can save your monthly energy costs by 50–75 percent if you reside in a sunny area. It will cost between $50 and $500 to install a solar blanket.
Pool Enclosure
An enclosed pool might be an excellent alternative for colder areas, as it essentially becomes another room in the house where you can relax. A pool enclosure can save you a ton of money on your monthly energy bill, but the installation costs anywhere from $5,000 to $14,000.
What Question to Ask a Professional Pool Heater Installator
What questions do I need to ask when getting a professional to install a swimming pool heater? To ensure a flawless installation, ask your contractor these questions:
How do I find a professional to help install a pool heater in my swimming pool?
Make sure you do your homework by conducting web searches, reading relevant local newspapers, and checking social media pages. The professional should also be contacted to discuss pricing and the installation process.
Are you properly licensed and covered by insurance?
Always check to see if a professional is appropriately insured and licensed. Insurance is necessary for both the contractor and your home for this type of work. To guarantee that the contractor is updated on industry trends and best practices, they must obtain a license.
How familiar are you with swimming pool heaters?
Getting a pool warmer is a challenge in some parts of the country, where the environment is particularly harsh What type of pool heater are you looking to have installed or repaired? Make sure that the contractor has experience with that particular model.
Are you knowledgeable in winterizing my pool?
Consider having a professional winterize your pool heater if you reside in an area prone to harsh winters. You can turn off the heater’s gas and electricity, but further measures may necessitate the services of a professional.
Conclusion
The family that frequently uses their swimming pool might benefit much from installing a pool heater, despite the hefty costs. A solar pool heater’s environmental advantages outweigh its higher heating ability, but regardless of your choice, you’ll find yourself spending more time in your pool. Search for the right professionals at the right price.