Do you have a green pool? It won’t be any fun to swim in or to look at. Don’t worry, though. You don’t have to drain your pool and start over. You can kill pool algae fast and keep it from coming back.

Why Do I Have a Green Swimming Pool?

There’s only one reason: pool algae. If it’s light green, the algae probably just started to take hold. But a deeper green means a bigger algae bloom problem.

Green algae growth happens when your sanitizer or chlorine levels are too low.  But before we dive in, if you want to stop your pool from turning green ever again, invest in our pool care video course. You’ll learn how to keep your pool maintenance and water chemistry in check so you never have to fight a green pool ever again.

How to Fix Green Pool Water Fast

Here’s our 5-step process for killing algae and clearing a swimming pool in less than a week. Make sure you follow every step to make sure you’re efficient as possible.

1. Brush the Pool Walls and Floor

Attach a pool brush to your telescopic pole and scrub the pool walls, floor, steps, and any other surface the algae may be clinging to. The goal is to get the algae floating in suspension in your pool water giving the chlorine a better chance to kill it.

If you have a concrete pool, it’s best to use an algae brush for this task. Algae is tough, and will stubbornly cling to the pool’s surfaces, so a heavy-duty brush works better than soft nylon bristles to remove it.

2. Test The Alkalinity and pH Level

Using test strips or a liquid test kit, test the pH and alkalinity levels. Note the levels:

• The pH level should be between 7.4 and 7.6. You can aim higher at 7.8 since you’ll be shocking the water which will lower the pH.
• The alkalinity level should be between 100 and 150 ppm (parts per million). Again, aim for the higher end.

If your pH and alkalinity are low, you should first raise your alkalinity (link to guide) and test it again to make sure you’re in the right range. Hopefully, by raising the alkalinity, it’ll put your pH in the right range too. But if not, adjust the pH (link to guide).

Note: Adjusting your pH and alkalinity will ensure the shock treatment will be as effective as possible. Having low or high levels may not help kill the algae. Also, testing the water could be the first step. If you’d rather test, then brush, go for it. It won’t affect the algae killing process.

3. Shock Your Pool with Chlorine to Kill Algae

This is the main event in clearing a green pool—killing the algae. Pool shock contains a high level of chlorine that will kill the algae and sanitize the pool. For the best results, use a shock that contains at least 70% available chlorine (calcium hypochlorite).

Important: Even if you usually use non-chlorine shock, you must use chlorine shock to kill algae. And keep in mind it’s best to shock at night!

How much shock do you need to kill the algae in your pool? It depends on the color.

One pound (1 lb or 0.45 kg) of shock treats 10,000 gallons (37,854 L) of pool water. That’s a normal shock treatment if your pool wasn’t green. But since it is and depending on how much algae is in the water (see color chart above), you need to double, triple, or quadruple the dosage.

For example, if you have a 20,000-gallon (75,708 L) pool, and your water was dark green, you’d need 6 bags of shock. That’s a triple dose.

If you need more information on how to shock your pool the right way, here’s our pool shock guide, and the video below .

4. Run Your Pool Filter for 8 Hours (And Shock Again If Needed)

After you shock at night, your should run your filter system for at least 8 hours overnight. Even better, you should run your filter 24 hours a day until your pool is completely clear. This will help clear your pool faster.

Important: Make sure you backwash your filtration system when needed. If you need more help on when and how to backwash your sand, D.E., or cartridge filter, you can read our full guide here.

If the pool is still green or teal in the morning, hit it again with the same amount of shock the following night. And by the next morning, it should be cloudy blue. That’s the goal!

If your pool is cloudy blue, then you successfully killed all the algae in the water. Now you can use a pool clarifier if you want to clear it more quickly, but even if you do, be sure to run the filter for at least 24 hours to get the dead algae out of the water, and ensure the shock has fully dissipated.

5. More Water Testing and Adjust Pool Chemicals

When your green pool isn’t green anymore and you have cloudy blue or clear water, test it again. This time test for pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and your chlorine levels. Add chemicals as needed to balance things out.

Test it again to make sure everything’s as it should be, and you’re ready to enjoy your pool again.

How to Keep Pool Algae From Returning

Now that your pool’s clear again, you want to keep it that way. The number one method to do that is to ensure you maintain proper sanitizer levels. This entails testing your water frequently, at least once a week, but we like to test about every other day.

If you notice levels are a bit on the low side, add sanitizer immediately.

And if it will put your mind further at ease, you can add algaecide during regular water maintenance. But honestly, your best bet is just to stay on top of the sanitizer situation.

Do I Need to Worry About Pool Phosphates?

You may have heard pool pros or other pool owners say that to control algae, you need to control pool phosphates, and use phosphate remover to do so.

No, you don’t need to worry about phosphates, and no, you don’t need to use phosphate remover.

Trying to remove phosphates from any environment is like removing dust particles from the air. You will never, ever, ever be able to do it completely. The same is true for phosphates. They’re everywhere and in everything.

Yes, they’re a food source for algae. But to control pests in your vegetable garden, do you remove the vegetables? Of course not. You kill the pests. The same is true for algae.

Sanitize, sanitize, test, balance, and sanitize some more. And use the money you would’ve spent on phosphate remover on a nice pool float.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clearing a Green Pool

Opening your cover to a green pool may be disappointing. No, not “maybe.” It is. But never again will you feel defeated by algae now that you have the upper hand. All it takes is a little hard work and the right chemicals, and you can kick that algae to the curb — er, the pool deck.

How long does it take for a pool to clear up from green?

If you follow our method in this article, you can successfully kill all the algae in your pool in less than 5 days. We recommend adjusting your pH and alkalinity, double or triple shocking the pool at night with calcium hypochlorite shock, and running the filter system 24/7.

Will chlorine clear up a green pool?

Yes! In fact, enough chlorine kills algae which causes green pool water. but it takes a large amount in the form of calcium hypochlorite super shock. Adding tablets in the skimmer or chlorinator will not clear up your pool. But you could also try using liquid chlorine instead of powdered shock as it mixes in the water faster. Just keep in mind that liquid chlorine is heavy to carry home from the store and to pour around your pool.

Will baking soda clear a green pool?

No. Baking soda will only raise your alkalinity and pH levels and this will not kill algae. Chlorine is what kills algae. But if you need help using baking soda to raise your alkalinity, read our full guide here.

Can you over shock a green pool?

No. The more chlorine shock you add to a green pool, the better chance it has to kill off all the algae. Follow the normal shock treatment based on the size of your pool and you can double, triple, or quadruple the dose to kill algae.

Will clarifier clear a green pool?

No. Pool clarifier binds particles together to be big enough for your filter to grab. If you have algae, it’s impossible for your filter to remove all of it. Instead, you need to kill it with chlorine. You can physically remove algae by using pool floc, which sinks the algae to the bottom of the pool, but it requires a lot of work to vacuum it out. Read our full pool algae guide here.

Happy Swimming!

The post How to Clear a Green Pool in 5 Days or Less appeared first on Swim University®.

Shocking your pool is part of regular pool maintenance. It helps keep algae, bacteria, and other contaminants from building up in your water. But getting the right kind of pool shock is critical for keeping your water clean and clear.

Not all pool shock products are right for every type of pool or for every pool situation. In general, we recommend the following pool shock:

• Cal-hypo shock: Use this if you have algae issues or if you want a powerful, weekly treatment. You will need to use this at night and wait at least 8 hours before swimming. This should not be used in saltwater pools and it can cause scale build-up by adding calcium to your water.
• Dichlor shock: Use this for weekly treatments or algae issues in saltwater pools. This will not cause scale build-up but it will raise your cyanuric acid levels. You’ll also need to wait at least 8 hours before you swim.
• Non-chlorine shock: Use this as a weekly treatment or if you want to swim shortly after shocking. It won’t affect your other chemical levels. But it’s not as effective at tackling algae issues.

Want more help picking out the best pool shock for your pool? Here’s a breakdown of how pool shock works, the different types of pool shock, and when to use each one.

How Does Pool Shock Work?

When you shock your pool, you’re adding enough chemicals (usually chlorine) to clean the water and remove the chloramine buildup. These chloramines build-up when chlorine mixes with urine, sweat, the oils in our skin, and nitrogen. It’s a naturally occurring chemical process that happens when your chlorine does its job. But it’s what gives a pool that chlorine-like smell.

If you’ve ever visited a hotel pool or to the gym for a quick workout and smelled lots of chlorine, you’ve actually come across an improperly sanitized pool. That strong chlorine odor is a result of the buildup of chloramines in the water, not an indication that the pool itself is clean.

What Are The Best Types of Pool Shock?

Cal-Hypo Chlorine Shock

Calcium hypochlorite shock, or cal-hypo shock, is the most powerful shock treatment for regular maintenance.

Found usually in granule form, cal-hypo shock is readily available, affordably priced, and straightforward to use. Some versions can be broadcasted directly into your water or you may be required to pre-dissolve it before adding it to your pool.

You can find varieties that contain anywhere from 65% to 75% chlorine. However, because it’s so powerful, it will affect your other chemical levels. Cal-hypo can cause scaling and calcium build-up. And it will raise your water’s pH levels, so if the pH is high after shocking, you’ll need to balance it. However it is unstabilized chlorine, meaning it does not contain cyanuric acid and it won’t increase your CYA levels.

Cal-hypo shock should only be used at night because it’s unstabilized chlorine and the sun’s UV rays can burn away. Simply add the pool shock to your water at dusk, circulate your water and check your pool the next day.

Dealing with algae or green pool water? Cal-hypo is the best shock treatment for you. It’s powerful enough to kill contaminants and stop algae growth (similar to an algaecide). However, it may require multiple doses, depending on your situation.

It’s a powerful weekly treatment for your pool, especially if you deal with ongoing green water or cloudy water. However, it’s not suitable for saltwater pools, hot tubs, or even smaller-sized pools. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and pay attention to the guide on the package.

Dichlor Shock

Also known as sodium dichloro-s-triazinetrione or sodium sichlor, dichlor shock can be used for both shock treatments and regular chlorine doses.

Unlike cal-shock, it contains only 50% to 60% chlorine and is made with stabilized chlorine so it won’t burn off in the sun.
But that means it will add 0.9 ppm of cyanuric acid for every ppm of additional free chlorine. So avoid using this kind of pool shock if your water test kit shows higher than normal cyanuric acid levels.

Most brands can be added directly to your pool, but a few must be dissolved first. And after adding it to your pool water, you’ll need to wait 8 hours before swimming again.

You can also find lower percentage dichlor products (15% to 20%) that work as “shock-and-swim” options. These typically let you swim about 15 minutes after treating your pool, but you should always read the label and follow the instructions.

Non-Chlorine Shock

If you want to shock your pool and swim soon after, a non-chlorine shock is your best option. Opting for this potassium mono sulfate shock gives you a gentler pool shock alternative without affecting your other chemistry levels.

You can add non-chlorine shock to your pool water anytime day or night. And since it’s both fast-acting and gentle, you can safely swim again after about 20 minutes. This is also a great option for smaller, above ground pools since traditional chlorine shock takes longer to dissipate.

Looking to kill the algae in your pool? Unfortunately, a non-chlorine shock isn’t powerful enough to eliminate green water and algae growth. And this type will only work if there’s a chlorination system present within the pool. This is the preferred way to shock a saltwater pool or a hot tub.

By the way, if you need more help keeping your pool clean and clear, check out our pool maintenance video course.

What to Consider When Choosing Your Pool Shock

Saltwater vs. Traditional Pool

The difference between a traditional pool and a saltwater pool is simple: you’re adding salt to one and adding chlorine to the other. But a saltwater pool and chlorine pool both contain chlorine. That’s because the salt in a saltwater pool is converted into chlorine by a salt-chlorine generator.

Because of this, adding a high-chlorine shock to your pool could easily over-chlorinate your water and throw off the chemical balance. And cal-hypo shock is notorious for causing scale build-up in saltwater pools.

That’s why it’s best to use either dichlor shock or non-chlorine shock in saltwater pools. Even saltwater pools need to be shocked every week or two (and more often if there’s been heavy rain or high usage). But if your saltwater generator has a “super chlorinate” option, you can use that to increase the chlorine in the water which would effectively shock your pool.

Granule vs. Liquid vs. Tablet Shock

Pool shock is available in several forms: granule, liquid, and tablet.

• Granular or powder pool shock is generally sold in a 1 pound bags or a bucket. Depending on the brand, you can add these powder or granules directly to the pool water or premix them. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions before any pool chemicals. Expect it to take anywhere 8 to 24 hours before the pool is safe to swim in again.
• Liquid pool shock is added directly to the pool water. That means there’s no need to wait for anything to dissolve. Most commonly, liquid treatments are made with concentrated sodium hypochlorite solution. This chemical can burn your skin and damage your clothing so be careful when you measure and pour it. Liquid products are often less expensive than powder equivalent. But sometimes they’re less potent, too. Follow the manufacturer’s directions and add the recommended amount for the gallons of water in your pool.
• Tablet pool shock is the slowest option. Your tablet may take up to 2 hours to completely dissolve in the water. It can take up to 48 hours for the pool to be safe to swim in.

Stabilized vs. Unstabilized Shock

Unstabilized shock doesn’t have cyanuric acid added to it. Pool shock with CYA stabilizes the chlorine to make it last longer in the pool and in the sunlight. Without the added acid, the UV rays break down the chlorine, making it less effective.

If you want to shock your pool without affecting your CYA levels, use shock without added cyanuric acid (like cal-hypo shock). Just be sure to shock it at night when the sun won’t burn up the unstabilized chlorine.

How Much Chlorine You Need

For a regular weekly pool shock, you might not need a high concentration of chlorine. However higher chlorine levels are necessary for treating green water, problematic pools, or sanitizing after lots of swimmers have been present.

Each type of pool shock has different levels of chlorine:

• Cal-hypo contains 50% to 80%
• Sodium dichlor shock contains 40% to 50%
• Non-chlorine shock (potassium monopersulfate) contains no chlorine but will reactivate any available chlorine molecules present in the water.

pH Levels

Chlorine-based pool shock will always alter the pH level of your pool. But non-chlorine shock won’t.

Check the pH level after you add the shock and check it again before getting into the pool to make sure your pH level has returned to normal.

Your pool’s ideal pH level should be anywhere between 7.4 to 7.6, with 7.5 being ideal. If the pH level is too high, the water is too basic, or alkaline. This can lead to eye irritation – swollen, itchy, red eyes are nobody’s idea of fun. When the pH falls too low, the water becomes too acidic which leads to skin irritation – itching, burning, and rash.

If you need help balancing your pH levels, check out our guide to Basic Pool Chemistry 101.

Dissolving Time

When using a liquid pool shock, you won’t need to worry about dissolution time. But, if you opt for a tablet or a powder treatment, you should consider the dissolving time when you plan to shock your pool.

Powders are quick-dissolving. But they may require premixing to prevent damage to vinyl pool liners. Tablets, on the other hand, take the longest to completely dissolve.

Never swim while the tablet is dissolving and follow all of the manufacturer’s directions about swim time. And after you shock your pool, check the pH balance to make sure the water is safe before diving in.

Algae Problems

Even pool owners who take excellent care of their pool water deal with algae issues. And some shocks are better than others at clearing up your water.

Cal-hypo shock is an effective way to handle algae growth and destroy organic contaminants. But how much you use depends on what kind of algae you’re up against.

• Green Algae: Use a double dose of pool shock
• Yellow or Dark Green Algae: Use a triple dose of pool shock
• Black Algae: Use a quadruple dose of pool shock

Frequently Asked Questions about Pool Shock

Have more questions about picking out the right pool shock for your swimming pool? Here are some common questions and answers.

What is the best pool shock treatment?

The most effective pool shock treatment depends on your pool’s condition and the type of pool you have. Our top pick for the most powerful pool shock is cal-hypo shock. But non-chlorine shock is the most gentle and won’t affect your other chemistry levels.

What type of shock should I use in my pool?

The type of pool shock you should use depends on the type of pool you have and why you’re shocking your pool. If you’re dealing with algae or a build-up of organic contaminants, use cal-hypo shock. If you’re shocking as part of regular pool maintenance, it’s fine to use any type of shock. Just know that dichlor shock will raise your cyanuric acid levels. And if you have a saltwater pool, the best shock treatment is with either a dichlor shock or a non-chlorine shock.

Is pool shock all the same?

No, in fact, there are three main types of pool shock – calcium hypochlorite, sodium dichloro-s-triazinetrione, and potassium monopersulfate. Each one is used for a different reason and in different pools.

What is the difference between shock and super shock for pools?

The difference between these two kinds of pool shock comes down to the concentration of calcium hypochlorite. A super shock treatment is more concentrated than the standard version.

Is liquid chlorine better than pool shock?

Pool shock and liquid chlorine are chemically the same but they have extremely different concentrations of chlorine. You will need to add significantly more liquid chlorine than you would cal-hypo shock if you want to oxidize chloramines in your pool.

Are pool shock and chlorine the same thing?

No, they are similar but aren’t the same thing. Shock has a much higher concentration of chlorine compared to chlorine sanitizers.

How often should you shock your pool?

Shock your pool once a week during the pool season to help keep algae at bay and kickstart your sanitizer. If you have a rainstorm or lots of people using your pool, shocking more often may be necessary.

Can I over shock my pool?

Adding too much shock can disrupt the chemical balance in your pool water. You may notice cloudy water and you won’t be able to use your pool before it clears up. If you’re still having issues with cloudy water after a few days, consider using a pool clarifier or pool flocculant.

Occasionally adding too much shock won’t be an issue, but do it too often and you risk damaging your pool equipment or your vinyl liner. Pool shock impacts your pH levels. And low pH can cause pool equipment corrosion. If it’s too high, scale may build up on your equipment and pool walls.

Can I use bleach in my pool?

While bleach does contain the active ingredient chlorine, it’s in a lesser concentration than in most pool shock products. It’s not recommended to use bleach in place of a shock. If you add bleach, you risk damaging your pool and causing health issues, especially if you’re using other pool chemicals to balance your pool water chemistry.

 

The post What’s the Best Pool Shock for Your Swimming Pool? appeared first on Swim University®.

If you’re looking for a cheap, energy-efficient way to heat your pool, making your own DIY solar pool heater is a great option. Not only can you use the sun’s power to heat your water, but the whole project will likely cost less than $100 (which is way cheaper than purchasing solar panels).

Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough on putting together your own DIY solar pool heater. You can watch the video below or keep reading for the complete tutorial.

How a Solar Pool Heater Works

The design of this easy DIY solar pool heater is pretty simple. Colder water is pulled from your pool by a sump pump. That water then enters a coil of black tubing that’s warmed by the sun. Then that heated water returns to your pool.

For this setup, you’ll need a sunny spot off of the ground to set up your solar heater, and you’ll need a few supplies that should cost you less than $100.

Keep in mind that this isn’t nearly as powerful as purchasing an electric water heater or gas water heater, but it’s extremely affordable to run and build. And this type of solar pool heating works best with above ground pools since it’s not powerful enough to heat an inground pool.

Supply List for Homemade Solar Pool Heater

Here are the supplies you’ll need for your DIY pool heater:

• 200 feet of ½ inch black irrigation hose. This polyurethane hose can be bought either online or at your local hardware store, so it’s worth shopping around for a good price. Just make sure it’s black since it needs to absorb the heat of the sun. Now keep in mind that you’ll need more than 200 feet if you have a larger pool. Your hose length should equal at least 50% of the square footage of your pool’s surface. For example, if your pool is 16 feet by 32 feet, that’s a surface area of 512 square feet. And that means you’ll need at least 256 feet of irrigation hose.
• Submersible pump. The easiest option to get water flowing through your irrigation hose is with a sump pump. Hopefully, you already have one as a pool owner. If not, this might be the priciest supply on the list and could set you back about $50. And while you can use your pool pump, it’s useful to have the heater and pump function separately.
• Irrigation hose connector for your pump. These are made specifically to connect ½ inch irrigation hoses to faucets and pumps.
• Plywood board and wood pieces to frame it. This is the wooden tray where your irrigation hose will sit. It will also keep your hose off the cold ground and allow you to angle it towards the sun. The size of your piece of plywood will depend on how much of the hose you’re using. But a 4×4 sheet of plywood is big enough for about 200 feet of hose. You’ll also want some wood to stabilize and frame your sheet of plywood. Also, an extra piece of wood is helpful to hold down your coiled hose. And to secure the wood, you’ll need wood glue, a drill, or a hammer and nails.

There are a few optional supplies you might want to help your solar pool heater work even better:

• Black spray paint, black plastic, or black roofing felt. Painting the wooden tray black or covering it with a black tarp or black roofing felt will add more heat to your solar heater set up. If you use plastic or roof felt, you might need a staple gun or duct tape to attach to your wood.
• Clear plastic tarp. Covering the entire tray with a clear tarp will trap more heat. It’s like turning your setup into a mini oven.
• Black PEX tubing instead of irrigation hose. PEX tubing is usually a lot more expensive than black irrigation hose. But irrigation tubing can wear down from heat and pool chemicals after a few years. So if you want to invest in something more long-lasting, use PEX coil.
• Shut-off valve or ball valve. A simple shut-off attachment at the end of your hose will help you control the flow of water and you can turn it off if it’s getting too hot.
• Solar blanket or solar cover. A solar blanket helps stop evaporation and heat loss at night. Without a solar cover, you’ll lose any water temperature you’ve gained during the day. So it’s critical to help keep that heat in your pool.

How to Build a DIY Solar Pool Heater

1. Set up your wooden tray. The goal is to keep your irrigation hose mounted on something above the ground so that you can angle toward the sun. A flat sheet of plywood can work totally fine on its own, but framing it by adding wood to the sides will help make it more sturdy.
2. Line your wooden tray with black fabric, black felt, or black paint. If you want to increase the amount of heat you capture, you’ll want to line your tray with something black at this point. But this is optional and might not be necessary, especially if you have a smaller pool.
3. Coil up your irrigation hose on your wooden tray. Start coiling your irrigation hose on your wooden tray. Your hose should lie flat on the wood, almost like a record on a turntable. You want to wrap the hose as tightly as you can so you can fit as many loops as possible. Placing a 2×4 on top of the hose as you coil it can be helpful to help brace the hose. It can also help to have a second person to hold things down. Be sure you have the ends of your hose on different sides of your wooden tray. One of these ends is your inlet where cold water is pumped in. The other is your outlet where hot water leaves. They shouldn’t enter and exit at the same point in your pool water.
4. Wrap your solar heater in the clear tarp. If you want to wrap your solar heater, now’s the time to do that. But again, this is an optional step. You may want to test your heater first and add the clear tarp afterward.
5. Add your hose attachments. Attach your irrigation hose connector to the end of your hose that will be going into your pool. This is to connect your sump pump. Also, attach your shut-off valve or ball valve to the opposite end of your hose if you’re using one.
6. Set up your solar heater and attach your sump pump. Place your wooden tray near your pool, off of the ground, and in the sun. Then attach your sump pump to the irrigation hose connector. Submerge the pump in the water and turn on your sump pump. Be sure your hose outlet is in the pool to return the hot water.

By the way, if you want more easy tips and tricks on taking care of your pool, check out our Pool Care Video Course.

Troubleshooting Your Homemade Solar Pool Heater

If you’re having trouble getting the water to warm up, here’s some troubleshooting tips:

1. Keep your sump pump and the returning hot water on opposite sides of the pool. Make sure that your pump that’s pulling in cold water is far away from the hose that’s adding in hot water. This will increase the efficiency of your solar heater. And place your pump as low as possible in the pool, since colder water tends to be at the bottom.
2. Increase your pump speed. The faster your flow rate, the more heat you’ll transfer to the pool water. You might not notice a bigger pool temperature difference, but you’ll actually increase your heat energy transfer. Aim for a 2 to 5-degree difference between the water coming out of your pool and the heated water going back into your pool. A continued, slow temperature rise means you’ve got an efficient heater.
3. Mount the coils off the ground and maximize the heat from the sun. You don’t want the cold ground to cool off your tubing, so make sure it’s mounted slightly off the ground. And like we mentioned before, you can also line your tray with plack plastic or cover your coils with a clear tarp for more sun absorption and insulation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Pool Heaters

Looking for more help on how to build a solar pool heater for your swimming pool? Here are some common questions and answers.

Can I use a garden hose instead of an irrigation hose?

We don’t recommend using a black garden hose for this DIY project. Garden hoses are made from many different materials and have different diameters than irrigation poly tubing.

How do I make a more powerful solar pool heating system?

If you don’t want to do it yourself, you can purchase solar panels online. It’s an easy way to create a larger version of this DIY solar water heater without having to hack together your own system (it will, however, cost hundreds of dollars more).

Store-bought solar panels usually come with connector kits, allowing you to build a series of solar collectors. You’ll also need plywood, lumber, PVC pipe, a 3-way valve, clamps, and fittings.

Alternatively, you can build and connect multiple DIY pool water heater systems. But no matter what type of solar collection you use, be sure to use a pool cover, like a solar blanket or solar cover, to keep heat from escaping your pool at night.

Need More Pool Maintenance Help?

• Download our free Pool Care Cheat Sheet. It’s a free, easy-to-use guide to help you keep track of taking care of your pool.
• Subscribe to our Swim University YouTube Channel. We publish free video tutorials throughout the pool season.
• Check out our Pool Care Course. You’ll get 30+ step-by-step videos and a downloadable guide with everything you need to know about pool maintenance.

The post How to Build a DIY Solar Pool Heater for Less Than $100 appeared first on Swim University®.

Choosing the best gas heater for your pool means taking several factors into consideration: your pool size, your climate, and how long you want to extend your swim season. But beyond that, you also need to think about which kind of gas to use, how easy it is to install the heater, and whether it can be used with an above ground pool or inground pool. And a good gas heater should be powerful and with a decent warranty from a reputable brand.

Keeping these criteria in mind, our two picks for the best natural gas and propane gas pool heaters are:

• Raypak Digital Electronic Ignition Pool Heater (Natural Gas)
• Hayward Universal H-Series (Propane Pool Heater)

For smaller or above ground pools, we recommend the Pentair MasterTemp 125 Pool Heater

The type of heater you choose depends on the type of gas you have available. Natural gas pool heaters require a gas line for installation. If lines aren’t available on your property, you’ll either need to pay to have them installed, or opt for a propane pool heater. And keep in mind that propane heaters tend to be more expensive to run than natural gas.

Curious about how gas pool heaters work and the features you should look for? Keep reading for our complete guide to the best natural gas and propane pool heaters.

FYI: We’re a small team of pool industry experts and researchers that care about recommending quality, reliable pool products. If you do choose to click a link and buy any of the products we recommend, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Best Natural Gas Pool Heater: Raypak Digital Electronic Ignition

This natural gas heater from Raypak uses an electronic ignition system that keeps your water consistently warm. It will automatically start whenever it finds the pool’s water temperature has fallen below your preset levels. And the LCD screen ensures that you can easily set and monitor temperature at any time.

Ranging from 206,000 BTU to 399,000 BTU, this heater works with both above ground and inground pools. However, if you have a small above ground pool, you may find even the smallest BTU has too much power.

Best Propane Pool Heater: Hayward Universal H-Series

If you need a propane heater, the Hayward Universal H-Series is a great option. With units available from 150,000 BTU to 400,000 BTU, you’ll be able to find the option that works best for your pool size and climate. Best of all, it’s a low NOx model, so it’s environmentally friendly and meets standards for areas where low NOx units are required.

Unfortunately, this particular model is designed only for inground pools. Pool owners with smaller or above ground pools should consider the Pentair MasterTemp 125.

Best Budget Propane Gas Pool Heater: Pentair MasterTemp 125

The Pentair MasterTemp 125 is not only perfectly sized for smaller or above ground pools, but it also costs half as much as other heaters. Its compact design is powerful enough to heat pools up to 15,000 gallons and is best suited for above ground pools. It’s also low noX certified, which means low emissions.

With user-friendly indicator lights, the Pentair MasterTemp 125 is simple to operate and monitor. And its corrosion and UV-resistant housing make it a durable, long-lasting heater.

By the way, if you need more help taking care of your pool, be sure to check out our pool maintenance video course. 

How Do Gas Pool Heaters Work?

You’ll find some gas heaters that run on natural gas and some that run on propane gas. Fundamentally, the two work the same way.
As your pool’s pump circulates water, water comes out of the pool, through a filter, and into the heater. The gas (fuel) burns in the combustion chamber to generate heat to warm up the water, and then sends it back out into the pool.

Gas heaters warm up your pool faster than electric pool heaters (pool heat pumps) or solar pool heaters. They’re also the most effective option for pool heating when temperatures are colder.

Natural Gas vs. Propane Pool Heaters: Which One is Better?

Natural gas and propane pool heaters work the same way. The difference lies in the fuel they use. Both fuels are colorless and odorless. And both are clean-burning fossil fuels, but that’s not all that matters.

Natural gas comes to your property via gas lines, so it may not be available in your local area. And propane is delivered via large tanks. With a natural gas line, you’ll never have to worry about running out of fuel. But propane is more energy-dense than natural gas, so you get more energy from it than you would the same amount of natural gas.

That said, natural gas is much cheaper than propane. In fact, you could save thousands each year using natural gas. It costs an average of $2,500 to $10,200 a year ($200 to $850/month) to run a propane pool heater (depending on location, pool size, and swim season). Natural gas, on the other hand, costs an average of $1,400 to $4,800 per year (about $100 to $400 a month).

If the cost of natural gas is 40% of the cost of propane in your area, then natural gas is the cheaper option for heating your pool water.

The cost to purchase the heaters will be about the same. And installation costs are similar as well. But it really comes down to your access to natural gas and the cost of fuel in your local area.

How To Choose The Best Gas Pool Heater

Pool Size

The bigger your pool, the more BTUs you’ll need to heat it. Smaller pools, up to 13,000 gallons can generally get by with lower BTU models (as low as 50,000 BTU). If you’ve got a larger pool, with 18,000 gallons or more, you’ll need more power.

Climate and Pool Temperature

If you live in a warmer area, you can get by with a smaller unit, since your heater won’t have to work as hard to heat water to your desired temperature. But if you live in a colder climate or you want a year-round swimming season, you’ll need a larger unit to account for the seasonal changes in outdoor air temperature.

Where Your Pool Heater is Located

Your gas heater will generally sit next to the pool, or in a nearby shed. The heater must be placed where it can connect to the pool pump and water filtration system. That means you’ll need plenty of room and the ability to connect it to your gas line, propane tank, and electricity.

Installation Requirements

If you were hoping for a DIY pool heater installation, we’re sorry to say that gas heaters are the most difficult to install. Why? They need both gas and electrical connections. So it’s best to hire a pool professional to install it for you.

The installation costs vary depending on where you live and whether or not you need to alter any of your existing pool plumbing or groundwork to install it.

Heat Conservation

Your heater will be insulated with either plastic or foam to keep as much heat in the water as it flows through the system. The better insulated your heater is, the better it can maintain a warm water temperature with less effort. When your system doesn’t have to work as hard, it will last longer, and you save energy. If you really want to save energy, use a pool cover to hold in the heat while the pool’s not in use.

Heater Casing

The heater casing is a special material designed to protect your equipment from water, temperature fluctuations, impact damage, etc. Aesthetically, they’re also designed to blend in with your surroundings so they don’t ruin your decor.

Winterization

No matter what type of pool heater you buy, you’ll need to winterize it. Winterizing your equipment prepares your pool and all of its components, including the heater, for the colder part of the year. To winterize a gas pool heater, you’ll need to disconnect all the hoses and power sources. Then remove all the water with a shop vac and store all the components in a dry location.

Maintenance

Just like you have to maintain the right water chemistry in your pool, you’ll also need to regularly maintain your pool heater. Doing so ensures it’s in good working order for years and extends its lifespan.

And if you don’t maintain the chemicals in your pool, especially your pH, you can wear out your gas pool heat exchanger.

Have your gas heater professionally inspected every six months if you operate a year-round swimming season, and once a year if you don’t.

If you’re worried about regular maintenance and repair costs, choose a pool water heater that features an extended warranty. This will make it easier to cover service and parts, or a replacement unit, should the need arise.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gas Pool Heaters

Need more help picking out the best pool heater? Here are some common questions and answers.

Is a gas pool heater worth it?

Gas pool heaters are more effective at heating your water compared to electric or solar heaters. It’s the most efficient way to heat pools in colder areas and the best way to extend your pool season. But if you live in a warmer climate or you want to spend less money on running your heater, a gas heater may not be the best option.

Are gas pool heaters expensive to run?

The operating costs to run a gas heater will depend on the cost of gas in your area and how much you run it. And keep in mind that natural gas costs less than propane. It costs an average of $200 to $850 per month to run a propane pool heater vs. $100 to $400 per month for a gas heater.

How much does a gas pool heater cost?

A gas heater will cost you an average of $2,000 to $3,000, depending on its size, BTUs, and the manufacturer. While they do cost more initially than other types of pool heaters, they’re the best option for heating pools quickly and keeping water warm in cooler climates.

How long does it take to heat a pool with natural gas?

The amount of time it takes to heat your pool depends on your pool size, the BTUs of your pool heater, and your desired temperature. Use this formula to get an estimate: Gallons of water x Weight per gallon (8.33 lbs) x Degrees of temperature increase / BTU output of the heater.

For example, here’s the amount of time it takes to raise the temperature in a 15,000 gallon pool by 10 degrees with a 100,000 BTU heater:

• 15,000 x 8.33 = 124,950
• 124,950 x 10 degrees = 1,249,500 BTUs needed to heat the water 10 degrees
• 1,249,500 / 100,000 (BTU output) = 12.495 hours

What is the cost to heat a pool with propane vs. natural gas?

Expect to spend anywhere from $200-$850 a month with a propane pool heater or $100-$400 a month with natural gas. Propane may be more energy-dense and require less fuel than natural gas, but propane is usually more expensive than natural gas.

If the cost of natural gas is 40% of the cost of propane in your area, then natural gas is the cheaper way to heat your pool.

What size pool heater should I get?

To figure out the right pool heater for your needs, you’ll need to know your pool’s volume (you can use our pool volume calculator). Then reference the pool heater’s guidelines regarding BTUs and pool size. It’s always a good idea to go higher, particularly with a gas heater. A bigger BTU unit helps to warm up your pool faster and compensate for the loss.

How long does a gas heater last?

Your gas pool heater should last an average of 10 years. Regular maintenance will extend its overall lifespan, so pool owners should factor that into ongoing costs. If you go extended periods without using it, always have it inspected and conduct any necessary maintenance and repair before starting it up again.

Need More Pool Maintenance Help?

• Download our free Pool Care Cheat Sheet. It’s a free, easy-to-use guide to help you keep track of taking care of your pool.
• Subscribe to our Swim University YouTube Channel. We publish free video tutorials throughout the pool season.
• Check out our Pool Care Course. You’ll get 30+ step-by-step videos and a downloadable guide with everything you need to know about pool maintenance.

The post Best Gas Pool Heaters of 2022 (Propane and Natural Gas) appeared first on Swim University®.

When it comes to buying an inground pool heater, there are a few factors you must consider: the size of your pool, the type of energy you want to use, the climate you live in, how quickly you want to heat your water, and how easy you need it to be to install.

With those considerations in mind, tour top picks for the best inground pool heater are:

• Hayward Universal H-Series (Natural Gas or Propane)
• Hayward HeatPro Heat Pump (Electric Pump)
• SmartPool S601 Pool Solar Heaters

For pool owners with smaller pools who want a cheaper option, we recommend the Pentair MasterTemp 125.

If you live in a colder climate, skip the solar pool heater and opt for the heat pump or gas pool heater. A gas pool heater will heat your water faster and work better in colder temperatures. But the heat pump is more energy-efficient and you’ll spend less money running it.

For those in sunnier climates who don’t mind waiting a day or two for the water to heat up, a solar heater is a good option. Depending on the size of your pool, you may need to install multiple panels to reach your ideal temperature.

Want to learn more about the features you should look for in an inground pool heater? Keep reading to see our complete guide on the best inground swimming pool heaters.

FYI: We’re a small team of pool industry experts and researchers that care about recommending quality, reliable pool products. If you choose to click a link and buy any of the products we recommend, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

How Do You Choose the Best Inground Pool Heater?

If you live in a colder climate or need to heat a larger pool quickly, we recommend the Hayward Universal H-Series Gas Heater (it comes in either propane or natural gas). Gas heaters are extremely powerful and can heat your water up by 20 or 30 degrees. However, it will cost you over time, since gas is the most expensive utility to use to heat your pool.

For a more energy-efficient option that’s still powerful, consider the Hayward HeatPro Heat Pump. It utilizes ambient heat from the outside air, helping you save money on your utility bill. But even though this heat pump is more energy-efficient, it may not work as well in extremely cold temperatures as a gas heater.

Finally, if you live somewhere sunny and you don’t mind waiting a few days for your pool water to heat up, the SmartPool S601 Pool Solar Heaters is both very affordable and extremely energy-efficient. But unlike a heat pump or gas heater, it can take several days for your water temperature to rise.

Finally, if you have a smaller pool and you want a more affordable option, we recommend the Pentair MasterTemp 125. It’s a few thousand dollars less than the Hayward Heat Pump and Natural Gas Heater but it runs on propane and only works in pools up to 15,000 gallons.

Best Inground Gas Pool Heater: Hayward Universal H-Series

The Hayward Universal H-Series Gas Heater comes as either a natural gas or propane pool heater. It’s available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 150,000 BTU to 400,000 BTU. And it’s an environmentally-friendly option for those in locations where low-NOx emissions are required. Keep in mind that you’ll likely have to pay to install it: professional installation is recommended to ensure plumbing and gas lines are handled correctly.

With a properly sized heater for your pool, you can expect the temperature to increase by one to two degrees an hour. A 40,000 BTU heater will warm a 33,000-gallon pool from 77 to 86 degrees in eight hours. Once it arrives at the set temperature, it will kick on a few times a day to maintain it.

Looking for another natural gas option? We recommend the Raypak Natural Gas Pool Heater.

Best Inground Electric Pool Heater: Hayward HeatPro Heat Pump

The Hayward HeatPro is a compact electric pool heater designed to heat your pool efficiently without taking up a ton of room. The titanium heat exchanger and “ultra gold” evaporator coil are chemically corrosion resistant. This makes it a great choice for coastal environments and saltwater pools. The lightweight design (coming in at less than 250 pounds) also makes it easier to transport.

But the best feature? Unlike other heat pumps, the Hayward HeatPro will even work when the outside air temperature is lower.

The HeatPro is fairly complex to install and is best left to professionals. You’ll need at least six feet of clearance above the heat pump at installation. And it’ll also take several hours to heat the water if you have a larger pool of over 25,000 gallons.

Best Inground Solar Pool Heater: SmartPool S601 Pool Solar Heaters

If you’re looking for a solar heating system, the SmartPool S601 Pool Solar Heater System is a very affordable option. Designed for DIY installation, this solar heater system will raise your pool water by 6 to 10°F over several days.

Keep in mind that you will need space in the sun for this heater since it measures 4 feet by 20 feet. And it does not come with an installation kit, so you’ll need to purchase that separately.

For this particular setup, it’s recommended you have enough solar panels equal to at least 50% of your pool’s surface area square footage. If your pool’s surface is 500 square feet, you’ll need 250 square feet of solar panels for 50% coverage.

Best Budget Pick Inground Pool Heater: Pentair MasterTemp 125

The Pentair MasterTemp 125 is an affordable, propane gas option for smaller pools (up to 15,000 gallons). At only 80 pounds, this compact pool heater ensures it can fit in tight spaces where other heaters aren’t an option. It also features a rotating digital display so you can always see the current water temperature.

Because it has less power than the other options, the Pentair MasterTemp 125 won’t be enough to keep your pool at an adequate temperature if you have more than 15,000 gallons.

By the way, if you need more help taking care of your pool, be sure to check out our pool maintenance video course.

How Do Different Types of Inground Pool Heaters Work?

Inground pool heaters are available in three types: gas, electric, and solar. And each one has its advantages and disadvantages, including energy efficiency and price.

Gas Pool Heaters

Gas pool heaters are a good choice for those who have an easily accessible gas line near their pool. In colder climates, gas pool heaters are the most popular option because of how effective they are. Though they will cost more to purchase and run than their electric or solar counterparts, they will produce more heat in a shorter period.

Electric Pool Heaters and Pool Heat Pumps

When it comes to electric pool heaters, you have two types to choose from: a direct flow water heater or a heat pump. Heat pumps use the ambient air to heat the water and are one of the most energy-efficient, powerful heating options on the market.

An electric heat pump pool heater works just like an air conditioning unit but in reverse. It pulls the air in, heats the water, and pushes the warm water out of the pool heat pump. Because it’s so energy-efficient, a heat pump is one of the best electric options for heating your pool.

Solar Pool Heaters

Solar pool heaters use the sun’s warmth to warm up the water. The most effective systems use a series of panels attached to the roof of your home or a rack near the pool.

For solar heaters to work effectively, you must live in a warmer climate with a lot of sunny days to heat the water. If you’re in a hot climate, solar is an energy-efficient way to heat your swimming pool. If you’re in a cooler climate, solar panels aren’t effective.

Keep in mind that solar blankets, solar rings, and liquid solar covers only help reduce evaporation and heat loss. They aren’t very effective at heating up the water on their own.

How to Choose the Best Pool Heater for Your Pool

Your Climate and Swim Season

The local climate and the length of your swim season influence the type and size of the pool heater you need. For a warmer climate, any type of pool heater will work. You could also purchase a smaller unit since the heater doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain your ideal pool temperature.

If, however, you want a year-round swimming season, even in a warmer climate, you may need a more powerful heater like a gas heater.

Pool Size

If you have a small pool, you can purchase a heater with fewer BTUs. A heater’s heating power is measured in British thermal units (BTUs.) And 1 BTU is the amount of energy it takes to warm one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

The larger your pool, the more BTUs you’ll need to heat the pool water to a comfortable temperature. And the longer you want to extend your swim season, the more BTUs you’ll need as well. In general, a 50K BTU works well for pools up to 13,000 gallons.

While it’s not as common to see solar heaters with large pools, you can install multiple solar panels to increase the heating capacity and keep your water at the ideal temperature. However, if you’ve got a large pool with more than 18,000 gallons, choose either an electric or a gas heater.

Location of the Pool Heater

Depending on the type and size of your pool heater, you may need a lot of space.

Gas heaters generally sit next to the pool or in equipment housing that’s close by. This is because they need to connect your pool’s pump and water filter system. They’re also much larger than electric heaters, but require less room overall than a solar heater.

Electric heaters can be up to half the size of a gas heater. They’re also installed next to the pool or with the pump and water filter.

Finally, solar heaters take up the most room and need planning before installation. Some can be placed near the pool, but others may go on the roof or the deck. Measuring beforehand to make sure you have enough available space is key.

Installation Requirements

If you’re planning on installing the pool heater yourself, some options are more difficult than others.

Gas heaters are the most difficult to install because they typically require both electrical and gas connections. It’s best to hire a professional installer.

If you’re planning on an electric heater, it’s best to hire a professional for that as well. You can connect the piping for water flow, but an electrician should connect the system to ensure everything is working properly because electrical equipment is in such proximity to water.

Solar heaters are generally the easiest for DIY installations but will take more time. As long as you have the right tools and the necessary space on your property, you might be able to install this option yourself.

Heater Casing

Unless you’re dealing with a solar heater, you will have casings around the heating equipment to protect it from water, impact damage, changes in temperature, and more. The casing is insulated to ensure the water stays warm as it flows through before going back into the pool.

If you’re worried about aesthetics, the heater casing is designed to blend in with your decor rather than stick out.

With solar heaters, you don’t have to worry about casing because it is designed to spread out so that the panels can absorb more of the sun’s energy.

Heat Conservation

Pool heaters are insulated with plastic or foam to direct the heat they produce into the water as it flows through. Better insulated heaters will be able to maintain a warm water temperature without working as hard. This results in less energy consumption.

Winterization

Winterizing is a process that prepares your pool and all of its parts for cooler temperatures associated with the winter season. It keeps filters, brackets, hoses, and other components safe from the temperatures and ensures that they work well for you from one swim season to the next.

If you have a solar heater, it can be more challenging to winterize panels located on your roof. It’s a bit more straightforward to winterize an electric or gas heater. Simply disconnect the hoses and power sources, remove the water, and securely store all components in a dry location. To ensure the heater is completely dry, you can use a wet vac or a leaf blower before you put it in storage.

Maintenance

Your pool heater will require regular maintenance to insert that it runs optimally. This means taking the time to clean it and repair it when necessary. Depending on the climate you’re in, you may also need to winterize it every year.

Regardless of the kind of pool heater you purchase, plan on having it professionally inspected once a year and if you use your pool all year, have it checked twice a year.

If regular maintenance and repair is a major concern, opt for a pool heater that features a longer warranty period. And in general, heat pumps tend to last longer than gas pumps or solar heater systems.

Frequently Asked Questions About Inground Pool Heaters

Looking for more help picking out the best pool heater? Here are some common questions and answers.

How much is a heater for an inground pool?

Plan on spending several thousand dollars on a gas pool heater or pool heat pump. The pricing depends on the BTUs of the unit – with more BTUs required to heat larger pools or smaller pools to warmer temperatures. Solar heater systems are much more affordable but they are far less effective at heating your water.

What is the best way to heat an inground pool?

The best pool heater for your pool depends on how quickly you need to heat your water, the outside air temperature, and how much you’re willing to spend on the ongoing cost to run your heater. In colder climates, you’ll want either a gas or an electric pool heater, as those have more power to heat the water to hotter temperatures and more quickly. A gas heater will usually cost you more to run than an electric heater. On the other hand, for those in warm climates, using a solar heater can increase your pool water’s temperature without any ongoing costs. But it may only increase by a few degrees and over a longer period of time.

How many BTUs do I need to heat my inground pool?

If you have a smaller pool (up to 13,000 gallons), a 50,000 BTU pool heater is enough to heat your water. However, if you want to have a longer swim season in the colder months, you may need a BTU output of up to 65,000.

But if you have a larger pool, up to 21,000 gallons, you’ll need a larger heater around 85,000 BTUs. Most heaters provide calculations on their websites.

Can you add a heater to an existing inground pool?

Yes, you can add a pool heater to an existing inground pool. The type and size you should add depend on your climate, your swim season, your budget, and how much space you have to install it. While it’s more difficult to install than with an above ground pool, it is possible. It may just require a professional.

Need More Pool Maintenance Help?

• Download our free Pool Care Cheat Sheet. It’s a free, easy-to-use guide to help you keep track of taking care of your pool.
• Subscribe to our Swim University YouTube Channel. We publish free video tutorials throughout the pool season.
• Check out our Pool Care Course. You’ll get 30+ step-by-step videos and a step-by-step downloadable guide with everything you need to know about pool maintenance.

The post The Best Inground Pool Heater of 2022 appeared first on Swim University®.

Choosing the best heater for your above ground pool means finding the best fit based on your pool size and your local climate. It also means considering a heater’s energy efficiency, how quickly it heats your water, and how easy it is to install. And a reliable pool heater should not only help extend your pool season but last you for years.

With those criteria in mind, our picks for the best above ground pool heater are:

• Raypak Electronic Ignition Natural Gas Pool Heater
• Hayward HeatPro Heat Pump
• GAME 72000-BB SolarPRO Solar Heater

Natural gas heaters and heat pumps are more powerful but the units cost several thousands of dollars. On the other hand, passive solar heaters like the SolarPro only cost a few hundred but are far less effective at heating your water.

For more information about how these heaters work and what features to look for, keep reading for our complete guide to the best above ground swimming pool heaters.

FYI: We’re a small team of pool industry experts and researchers that care about recommending quality, reliable pool products. If you do choose to click a link and buy any of the products we recommend, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

How Do You Choose the Best Above Ground Pool Heater?

If you live in a colder climate or need to heat a larger pool quickly, we recommend the Raypak Natural Gas Heater. Gas heaters can heat your water up by 30 degrees in some cases. You will, however, pay for that power with the cost of the heater itself and a higher utility bill.

For the most energy-efficient option that doesn’t sacrifice power, consider the Hayward Electric Pool Heat Pump. It works well in mild climates, utilizing ambient heat from the air to help you save you money on your electric bill. Keep in mind that even though the heat pump is more energy-efficient, it may not work well in extremely cold temperatures.

But if you live somewhere with plenty of sunlight and don’t mind waiting for your pool to heat up, the SolarPRO Solar Heater is an extremely affordable option (a few hundred dollars) and very energy-efficient. It will just take several days to heat up your pool water and only by a few degrees.

Finally, if you’re specifically looking for a propane gas option and don’t mind sacrificing some power to save money, we recommend the Pentair MasterTemp 125.

The Best Above Ground Gas Pool Heater: Raypak Natural Gas Heater

The Raypak Digital Electronic Ignition Natural Gas Pool Heater is the most powerful above-ground pool heater option. It uses an electronic ignition that will automatically start the system when the pool’s temperature falls below your preset preferred temperature. Featuring an LCD display, you can easily see and set the temperature on the thermostat at any time. And gas-powered heat means heating your pool water quickly in any climate.

The Raypak heater is available in several models, from 206,000 BTUs to 399,000 BTUs, to accommodate different size pools. However, it does require access to a natural gas line. That means not only is this heater a significant upfront cost, but the installation can also be pricey.

The Best Above Ground Electric Heater: Hayward HeatPro Heat Pump

The Hayward HeatPro heat pump is an energy-efficient option for pools up to 13,000 gallons, 24 feet round, and 15 x 30 feet oval pools. It features a high-efficiency titanium heat exchanger and a cooling mode to cool water temperature if needed.

This heat pump runs quietly with a defrost system that allows it to start in lower temperatures. It’s also a “Low Nox” heater, which means it minimizes levels of nitrogen-oxide, making it more environmentally friendly.

A heat pump like the Hayward HeatPro will help you heat your pool quickly and efficiently. Though it’s not as powerful as a gas heater and still costs several thousands of dollars, it’s a bit easier to install (though it may still require an outside contractor).

The Best Above Ground Solar Pool Heater: GAME 72000-BB SolarPRO

An extremely affordable heater option, the GAME 72000-BB SolarPro has a unique curved shape to help maximize heat collection. Plus, because it doesn’t lie flat on the ground, this solar collector won’t kill your grass. It features threaded ports for plumbing options and adjustable legs, making it compatible with a variety of manufacturers, including Intex and Bestway above ground pools.

However, a solar heater will heat your water much slower than a gas or electric heat pump. If you have an 8,000-gallon pool, you can expect an increase of five degrees in four days. So if you need more heating power or have a larger pool, you’ll need multiple solar heaters. And that means you’ll need to purchase bypass kits to connect each one.

The Best Alternative Above Ground Pool Heater: Pentair MasterTemp 125

Available as a propane or a natural gas solution, the Pentair MasterTemp 125 is a slightly more affordable on-demand heater option. If you have a smaller pool (up to 17,500 gallons), this heater may be a perfect size. At only 80 pounds, its compact design makes it easy to fit in smaller spaces where other heaters just won’t go. And its rotating digital display lets you easily see your current pool water temperature.

By the way, if you need more help taking care of your pool, be sure to check out our pool maintenance video course.

How Do Different Types of Pool Heaters Work?

Pool heaters are available in three types: gas, electric, and solar. And each has pros and cons, including price, energy efficiency, and the ability to heat your water quickly.

Gas Pool Heaters

Gas pool heaters use either natural gas or propane gas to heat your pool. Pool water passes through the heater while a combustion chamber burns the gas. Then the heated water passes back into your pool.

If you’re in a cooler climate or you need to heat your pool quickly, a gas pool heater is most effective. Gas heaters can produce more heat in shorter periods of time. But compared to other heaters, they’re more expensive to operate. Propane or natural gas tends to cost more than the electricity used for a heat pump.

If you want to use natural gas, you’ll need a gas line near your pool. But if you don’t already have one, you’ll also need to pay for not only the heater installation but a gas line as well.

Electric Pool Heaters and Pool Heat Pumps

There are two types of electric pool heaters: a direct flow heater and a pool heat pump. The direct flow heater works much the same way as a tankless water heater, heating the water on demand as it passes through. And it requires electricity to generate heat.

On the other hand, a pool heat pump uses the warmth from the ambient, outside air to warm up your pool water. It’s the same way your home’s air conditioning system works but in reverse.

Direct flow electric heaters can be expensive to operate, hiking up your electricity bill in the pool season. But a pool heat pump is much more energy-efficient and costs much less to run. However, they won’t work well in colder temperatures since they rely on warmer, outside air to work.

Solar Pool Heaters

Powered by the sun’s heat, solar pool heaters come in a wide range of options. The simplest solar heaters use black coils to harness the sun’s rays to warm up your water. After exiting your filter pump, your pool water passes through the heated black tubing or solar dome before it’s transferred back into your pool.

More complex solar setups require solar panel installation and permanent plumbing fixtures. But the simplest solar heaters are easy to install, energy-efficient, and affordable. On-the-ground solar heaters with black tubing, however, take the longest to heat up your water.

For this type of above ground pool heater to work, you need lots of sunny, warm days to heat up your water. But if you do live in a hotter climate, a solar pool heater is the least expensive and most energy-efficient option.

Keep in mind that solar blankets and solar covers aren’t meant to directly heat your poo. These solar options stop evaporation and keep heat and water from dissipating, especially at night. But they don’t necessarily actively heat your pool. So solar blankets are a great compliment to a pool heater system but not a substitute.

How to Choose the Best Heater for Your Pool

Location

Where your pool heater goes may not seem all that important, but, you may need to use things from your yard or home to install it. A gas pool heater typically sits next to the pool or a nearby shed so it can connect to your pool’s water filter and pump system. They’re bigger than their electric equivalents, but require a lot less room compared to a solar heater. However, some do require access to a natural gas line.

An electric heater can be 50% smaller than the gas version. They are generally installed next to the pool or with the filter and pump. And they obviously need access to electricity.

Finally, a solar pool heater will take up more space and require more planning before you install them. Some will sit near the pool, while some can go on the decking or fencing. And you will need access to direct sunlight. So it’s crucial to measure and plan the layout to make sure there’s adequate space available.

Ease of Installation

If you’re planning for a DIY installation, passive solar pool heaters are the easiest option. They require no extra electric or gas hookups.

If you are looking to have an electric pool heater installed, you may be able to install this yourself. But even if you successfully connect the piping for the flow of the water, it’s always better to have an electrician connect the system and confirm that everything is working properly since the electrical equipment is around water.

A natural gas pool heating system is the most difficult to set up because it often requires both gas and electrical connections. As with an electric heater, it’s better to hire a professional to make sure the gas connections are secure before you start to use the pool heater. You may also need a natural gas line installed if you don’t have one.

Pool Size

The larger your pool volume, the harder your pool water heater will have to work. Because of this, it’s rare to use a passive solar pool heater if you have a huge pool. But if you do want to use solar energy to heat your swimming pool, you can add additional panels to keep the water warm. If you have a very large pool, opt for a gas or electric heater.

Note: Pool heaters use British Thermal Units (BTUs) to indicate heat potential. A single BTU increases the temperature of 1 lb of water by 1 degree, a heater with a higher BTU will heat your water faster. Be sure to check the heater’s BTU or pool size capacity before buying.

In-Season Water Temperature

Climate is a major factor in deciding on the best pool heater for your pool. In warmer climates, nearly any pool heater will work. It’s also likely that you won’t need a heater that’s as powerful to keep your pool at the right temperature.

For warmer areas, an electric heat pump or a solar pool heater is an effective choice because they pull heat from the outdoor air or natural sunlight. In cooler climates, you’ll likely require the power of the gas pool heater.

Heater Casing

Both electric and gas pool heaters have casings to protect the equipment from water, fluctuation in temperature, impact damages, and more. The casing is also insulated to keep the water flowing through it warm before it flows back into the pool.

If you opt for a solar heating system, you won’t have to think about the casing. This type of pool heater is designed to spread out so that it can absorb the maximum amount of solar energy. But the black tubing can corrode over time due to pool chemicals.

Winterizing

If you need to winterize your pool, you’ll need to prepare your filtration system, heater, pump, and other components for the cold temperatures. This keeps your hoses, filters, brackets, and all other internal components safe from freezing temperatures, and ensures they remain in good working order from season to season.

Solar heaters have to be completely removed to winterize them safely. Similarly, electric and gas heaters should be winterized by removing the hoses and power sources, removing water, and securely storing the parts in a dry location for the winter.

Maintenance

As with other parts of your pool, your heater requires regular maintenance. This includes cleaning it, repairing it, and, depending on climate, winterizing. Passive solar options rarely need an inspection. But if you have an electric or gas heater, consider scheduling an annual professional maintenance inspection to make sure works correctly.

If you’re concerned about regular maintenance and repair, purchase a pool heater than has a longer warranty period, making it possible to get service, parts, or a new unit if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Above Ground Pool Heaters

Looking for more help picking out the best pool heater? Here are some common questions and answers.

What’s the best way to heat an above ground pool?

The fastest way to heat an above ground pool is with a gas pool heater. They can raise your water temperature by up to 30 degrees. But the most cost-efficient, effective method is a heat pump. Just keep in mind that pool heat pumps are less effective in dramatically colder temperatures.

Solar pool heaters are the cheapest and most energy-efficient option. But it will take several days to increase your water temperature with a solar pool heater.

How much does it cost to heat an above ground pool?

It can cost anywhere from $0 per month (solar heater) to $800 a month (propane gas heater) to heat your pool. It depends on the type of energy you’re using. Propane tends to be more expensive than natural gas. And direct flow electric heaters use more power than heat pumps. According to PoolResearch.com, a heat pump costs up to $200/month to heat a pool compared to a direct flow electric heater which costs $600/month.

Can you install an inground pool heater on an above ground pool?

Not all pool heaters are designed to work with above ground pools. But there are many models that are built for both inground pools and above ground pools. Just keep in mind that gas heaters can raise your water temperature by 30 degrees or more. So some models may be too powerful for a smaller, above ground pool.

What is the cheapest way to heat an above ground pool?

The cheapest way to heat a pool is with a solar heater setup. This involves running your pool water through heated, black tubing that’s naturally warmed by the sun. You can make these yourself or purchase them online. Just keep in mind that things like solar pool covers or solar rings only help retain heat, not add heat to your pool. If you’ve already got a pool heater and you want to reduce your power or gas bill, use these methods to help hold in as much heat as possible.

What size heater do I need for my above ground swimming pool?

The size of pool heater you need depends on the volume (or cubic square feet) of your pool and the length of your swimming season. Smaller pools that hold up to 13,000 gallons can get by with a 50,000 BTU heater. Larger pools that hold up to 21,000 gallons need at least 85,000 BTU. Bottom line, the larger your pool, the more BTUs you’ll need to warm the water efficiently.

Need More Pool Maintenance Help?

• Download our free Pool Care Cheat Sheet. It’s a free, easy-to-use guide to help you keep track of taking care of your pool.
• Subscribe to our Swim University YouTube Channel. We publish free video tutorials throughout the pool season.
• Check out our Pool Care Course. You’ll get 30+ step-by-step videos and a downloadable guide with everything you need to know about pool maintenance.

The post The Best Above Ground Pool Heater of 2022 appeared first on Swim University®.

Your swimming pool needs regular maintenance. That’s why it pays to develop a strong basic understanding of pool maintenance essentials, no matter if you have an inground, above ground, Intex®, or saltwater pool.

When you know how your pool works, the best ways to care for it, and how to plan for it, you’ll be ready to solve just about any potential pool problem that floats your way.

Good Pool Maintenance Begins with Knowing Your Pool

Before you can properly enjoy or care for your pool, you might need to brush up on all the parts of your pool. Knowing the basic parts of your pool, and their functions, helps you keep everything running smoothly—and makes it easier to resolve issues when they occur.

Looking for a full in-depth video course on swimming pool maintenance? Check out The Pool Maintenance Video Course and become a pool care master so you can effortlessly keep your water clean and clear all season.

The Basic Components of a Swimming Pool

Every type of swimming pool has four components that need regular care. These include:

1. Pool Water

It might seem like a no-brainer but the water in your pool is key to lasting pool happiness. Keeping it clean, clear, and balanced protects you and your family from contaminants and pollutants. It also helps you avoid costly hardware repairs due to corrosion or mineral build-up, and helps your whole pool last longer.

2. Pool Interior

The walls of your pool liner are in constant contact with pool water, and everything that enters it. Keeping these surfaces in good repair, and clear of algae, mold, and debris, will help keep your pool clean and safe.

3. Pool Filter System

The pumping heart of your pool is also its liver. OK, that sounds a little weird. But think about it: your pool pump draws water keeps your water circulating, like your heart does with your blood. Your pool filter clears dirt and other contaminants from your water just like your liver filters last night’s cheese fries from your blood.

Both protect you and your pool from harm. Without a functioning filter system, your pool will soon be a cloudy, polluted, and unswimmable mess.

Depending on your setup, you might have a cartridge filter, a sand filter, a diatomaceous earth (D.E.) filter. Or, if you have a salt water system, a salt water chlorinator.

4. Pool Skimmers and Returns

If your pool’s filter is its liver, then your skimmers and returns are its veins and arteries. Your skimmers—not to be confused with a net skimmer, the cleaning tool attached to a telescoping pole—pull water into the filter for cleaning, while the returns push the cleaned water back into your pool. And like your veins and arteries, they work best when they’re clean and clear of obstructions.

No two pools are alike, and you’ll no doubt encounter pool maintenance challenges specific to your pool as time goes on. But if you’ve got a firm grasp on these four pool components, you’ll be well equipped to face down most upkeep challenges.

The Three C’s of Proper Pool Maintenance

The foundation of effective pool care is built on three simple but important concepts: circulation, cleaning, and chemistry.

1. Good Water Circulation

In your pool, moving water is cleaner, clearer, and safer. Proper pool circulation is key to healthy and safe swimming.

A pool with good circulation rarely has issues like cloudy water or pool algae infestation. Keep your pump and filter system running daily to maximize circulation.

How long should you run your pool pump? Ideally, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. But since that’s not feasible for everyone’s budget or equipment, we recommend running your filter at least 10 to 12 hours a day. That’ll turn the water over a few times and help keep your pool safe and clean.

The other key component to good pool circulation is frequently backwashing your filter. Backwashing refers to reversing the flow of water through your filter and shunting the dirty water and built-up contaminants to the waste port, carrying them out of your pool.

If you’re not sure how to clean a pool filter, it’s imperative to learn and make it part of your regular pool care routine.

Tip: If your pool has a sand filter, add a cup of D.E. powder to boost its filtering power. Cloudy water will clear more quickly as the D.E. aids your sand filter in straining fine particles.

2. A Pool Cleaning Schedule

If it has proper circulation, you’ve already made cleaning your pool much easier. But you’ll still need to apply some good old-fashioned elbow grease. The basic tools you’ll need are:

• Net skimmer
• Pool brush
• Pool vacuum

Both Mother Nature and the folks using your pool bring all sorts of wild and wacky things into your pool, from leaves, mold, and the odd duck or frog to residues from shampoos, perfumes, and hair products. Add in the risks of bacterial contamination, and cleaning your pool becomes an absolutely essential part of safe swimming.

Skim, brush, and vacuum your pool weekly, at a minimum. This will keep debris out of your water, and your walls sparkling clean. Baking soda paste works particularly well as a basic scouring cleaner that won’t damage delicate tile or a vinyl liner when you brush.

An automatic pool cleaner can significantly cut your pool cleaning time. It won’t eliminate the need for regular skimming and brushing, but it’ll make both tasks easier, freeing you up to spend time enjoying your pool instead of cleaning it.

You can also make your cleaning life easier with a few unorthodox additions to your pool. Toss a few tennis balls into your skimmer basket, or even right into the pool, and they’ll absorb surface oils left behind by suntan lotion, cosmetics, etc. You can also wrap your skimmer baskets with pantyhose to create an extra-fine filter that’ll catch more contaminants than a skimmer alone.

Simply replace both the tennis balls and the pantyhose when they start to show signs of wear.

Tip: If you have an inground pool, the drains built into the bottom of the deep end will help pull water into the filter and make it easier to clear debris loosened during cleaning. Above ground pools don’t have these drains, but you can get the same water-clearing boost with a manual pool vacuum.

Simply attach your vacuum to your filter system and place it in the middle of your above ground pool, making sure the vacuum is upside down. Turn it on, and it’ll act as a main drain to help you clear cloudy water more quickly.

3. Balancing Your Water Chemistry

Step away from the Bunsen burner. Pool chemistry might sound intimidating and complicated, but you don’t have to worry. While it is an essential part of effective pool maintenance and water care, basic pool chemistry is surprisingly straightforward.

The most important tool in your bag of water care tricks is your water testing kit. You wouldn’t season your stew without tasting it. So before you reach for the chemicals, do some pool water testing. Understanding what’s in your water, and what isn’t, is the first step to balancing it.

The three most important parts of pool water chemistry are:

• pH levels: The measure of how acidic or basic your pool water is. Low pH levels are acidic, while high levels are basic. The ideal range for your pool is 7.4 to 7.6.
• Alkalinity: Works as a pH buffer and helps avoid huge spikes in basicity or acidity. The ideal range is 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm). And you can use baking soda to increase your pool’s alkalinity level.
• Sanitizer levels: The amount of chlorine, bromine, etc. in your pool water. Proper levels vary depending on which type of sanitizer you choose.

Once you know your pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels, you can start to add chemicals to tweak your water balance. Take your time, follow all the directions, and be sure you know what each chemical does and how it’ll affect the water, and the folks who swim in it, before you add it.

Don’t Forget to Add Pool Shock!

Every once in a while, your sanitizer will need a little help, especially after a rainstorm, or if a lot of people have been using the pool. To make sure your pool stays clean even when the sanitizer is maxed out, add pool shock on a regular basis.

Create a Maintenance Schedule

As you learn more about your pool and how to care for it, your to-do list might start to seem a little intimidating. Creating a pool maintenance schedule makes it easy to stay organized and make sure important tasks don’t slip through the cracks.

Not only will you be able to stay on top of basic upkeep, but you’ll be able to plan ahead for more advanced pool maintenance tasks like closing your pool, caring for it during the off season, or getting your swimming pool ready to roll when pool season returns.

Keep it Simple

Write down your pool maintenance schedule and tape it on the wall, fridge, or even somewhere near your swimming pool. If others in the household are available on certain days to do some of the simple maintenance tasks, jot down a name beside each task and share the workload.

3 Tips for Vacation Pool Maintenance

Being that most of our readers take summer vacations and own swimming pools, I figured I would share a few tips for vacation pool maintenance. I used to get asked this question a lot when I worked at the pool store. It’s not as hard as you might imagine.

1. Find a Neighbor or a Friend

This is the key to success when it comes to keeping your swimming pool clean while you’re away.

The ideal candidate is someone who owns a pool themselves. They should already know what to do. Tell your friend or neighbor to check on the pool once a day and provide them with a simple checklist, including:

• Empty the skimmer basket(s)
• Skim the surface of the pool
• Check the filter pressure (backwash if needed)
• Test the water with a test kit or test strips
• Add any necessary chemicals (only if they know what they’re doing)

2. Get A Pool Pump Timer

Hopefully, your pump already has a timer. If not, I would invest in one. They are a crucial part of proper pool care.

Set the timer to run the pool at least 8 to 12 hours a day. If you can split up the times, great! If not, it won’t be a problem for it to run 24 hours a day. Running your pump and filter is very important to keep your pool clear and it’s better to leave a timer in charge rather than a human.

3. Get Your Water Checked Before You Go

Take a sample of your pool water to your local pool store and get it professionally checked.

Make sure when you get it checked that you correct any issues before you go. You want to make sure that your pH and alkalinity are properly balanced and your sanitizers levels are correct.

• pH: 7.4 to 7.6
• Alkalinity: 100 parts per million (ppm) to 150 ppm, with 125 ppm being ideal
• Calcium Hardness: 175 ppm to 225 ppm, or 200 ppm to 275 ppm for concrete and plaster pools
• For Chlorine Pools: 1 ppm to 3 ppm
• For Bromine Pools: 3 ppm to 5 ppm
• For Biguanide Pools: 30 ppm to 50 ppm
• For Salt Water Pools: 0.5 ppm of chlorine
• For Mineral System Pools: 0.5 ppm of chlorine

Also, make sure your pool is clean and crystal clear before you leave.

Come on In, the Water’s Fine—Thanks to You

Owning a swimming pool is one of the most rewarding ways to enjoy fun in the sun at home. Yes, it needs regular care, but that doesn’t mean you’ll spend your life shackled to a vacuum or fiddling with your chemistry set.

In fact, when you know how your pool works, understand the care it needs and plan ahead, you might find yourself taking pride in your pool care prowess. You’ll enjoy not just your swim, but the peace of mind that comes with regular and thorough pool maintenance.

Happy Swimming!

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