It’s finally winter in Arizona — at least it feels like it! While the valley’s “winter” is fairly mild, one thing that makes it really enjoyable is a dip in a heated pool! For those that like to swim all year round, heating the pool in the winter makes perfect sense. There are multiple heating systems to consider for those wanting to heat their pool this winter.
There are three basic options when it comes to pool heating systems that will allow residents to increase their pool usage year round — electric-, solar- or gas-powered. Residents can make their decided based on costs, needs, and how their homes and swimming pools are laid out.
Electric powered systems are a great option for those that want to keep their pool heated regardless of the weather outside. Depending on the size of the pool, the water can maintain a temperature between eight and ninety degrees, as long as the weather outside is approximately 45 degrees Fahrenheit and above. This typically is not an issue in Phoenix, though it does occasionally dip into the low 40s, high 30s.
Solar heating systems are another option that generally work well for recreational swimming pools. These systems are used for those that want to keep their pool temperature between eight and eighty-five degrees Fahrenheit throughout the winter or year-round. Because solar systems utilize heat from the sun to power themselves, there are no operational costs nor gas or electricity to pay for — the pool pump circulates water through the solar-powered heater thus heating the pool water. With this type of system there is a timer that needs to be set up to run during the brightest and warmest part of the day. With this type of system, there could be an added rise in one’s electric bill due to the fact that the pump needs to be running to circulate the water through the heater.
A gas-powered pool heater is the final option. This is ideal for those that just want to heat their pool for short periods of time. While these systems are very effective, they can be more costly than the other options. These systems utilize propane or natural gas to burn in the chamber, then that heat is transferred to the water in the swimming pool. This system needs to be hooked up to a natural gas line or storage will be needed for the propane gas tank.
Remember that pool service and weekly pool cleaning is still a good idea through the winter season. While home pool maintenance is important, having a professional maintain it can be a great way to ensure the water is sparkling, the pool is clean and systems are working.
