So, you’ve got an above ground pool, probably an Intex type that sits on your lawn. You’ve filled it with water, connected the filter pump, and you’re all set to take a dip. But then you hear, “It’s freezing cold! I’m not going in that!” Sound familiar? You need a heater.

In this article, we’ll discuss the various options for heating a garden above ground pool efficiently and affordably, including heat pump pool heaters and swimming pool heaters.

How Heat Pumps Can Save on Pool Heating Costs

Heat pump pool heater is among the most energy-efficient options for heating your swimming pool. They extract heat from the air and transfer it to your pool water. Running heat pump pool heaters at the warmest time of the day ensures optimal efficiency. This method is particularly effective in mild climates like the UK.

Although heat pump pool heaters have higher upfront costs, their low running costs make them an excellent long-term investment. Heat pump pool heaters work best when the ambient temperature is above 10°C, ensuring that your pool stays warm even during cooler months.

How Much Does it Cost to Heat an Above Ground Pool with a Pump?

Heating an above ground pool using pool heat pumps can vary in cost. Here’s a breakdown of the monthly costs based on heating for 5 hours per day:

Pump Type	Electricity Usage per Hour (kWh)	Electricity Cost per Hour (GBP)	Daily Cost (GBP)	Monthly Cost (GBP)
3kW	3	£0.84	£4.20	£126.00
6kW	6	£1.68	£8.40	£252.00
9kW	9	£2.52	£12.60	£378.00

Solar Pool Heating Systems

For an environmentally friendly and cost-efficient option, consider a solar pool heating system. These systems use solar panels to capture the sun’s heat and transfer it to your pool water. Solar pool heating systems can drastically reduce your heating costs as they rely on solar energy.

While the initial setup might be higher, the savings over time make them a worthwhile investment. Solar covers or solar blankets also help trap heat and reduce water evaporation, cutting down on heating costs. By covering your pool when it’s not in use, you can retain heat and reduce the energy required to reheat the water.

Liquid Solar Covers

A liquid solar cover creates a thin, invisible layer on the pool’s surface, reducing water evaporation and helping maintain the water temperature. It’s an easy-to-use solution that doesn’t require the effort of traditional covers. This modern method is convenient and effective in keeping the pool warm.

Pool Insulation

Proper pool insulation is crucial to minimise heat loss. Insulating your pool’s walls and floor helps maintain a stable water temperature and reduces the energy needed to heat the pool. For above ground pools, using insulating materials around the sides can make a significant difference in retaining heat.

Natural Gas Pool Heaters

If you need to heat your pool quickly, a natural gas heater might be the right choice. These heaters are efficient at rapidly heating the water, but they are not the most cost-efficient option due to high energy costs. They are suitable for situations where quick heating is essential but be prepared for higher operating expenses.

Using Sun Exposure to Heat Your Pool Naturally

Positioning your pool to maximise sun exposure helps reduce heating costs. Ensure that trees or buildings do not shade the pool, allowing the sun to naturally warm the water. This strategy, combined with the use of solar collectors or solar pool covers, can significantly enhance your pool’s warmth.

Conclusion

By understanding your options and their benefits, you can choose the cheapest way to heat a pool that suits your needs. Whether investing in a heat pump, using solar heating systems, or swimming pool heaters like glazed and unglazed collector systems, there are many ways to keep your swimming pool warm without incurring high energy costs.

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to heat a swimming pool?

The cheapest way to heat a swimming pool is typically using a solar pool heating system. These systems use solar panels to capture the sun’s energy and are very cost-efficient in the long run.

How much does it cost to run a heat pump for a swimming pool?

Running costs for a heat pump depend on its size. For example, a 3kW heat pump costs about £126 per month when used for 5 hours per day.

Can I use an electric pool heater for an above ground pool?

Yes, electric pool heaters are suitable for above ground pools. They are easy to install and effective for small pools but can have higher running costs compared to other options.

How effective are solar covers in heating a pool?

Solar covers are very effective in retaining heat and reducing water evaporation, which helps maintain the pool’s temperature and reduces heating costs.

What are the benefits of using a heat pump for pool heating?

Heat pumps are energy-efficient and have lower running costs compared to gas or electric heaters. They work well in mild climates and are a long-term cost-saving solution.

Is it necessary to insulate an above ground pool?

Yes, proper pool insulation helps minimise heat loss, maintain a stable water temperature, and reduce the energy needed to heat the pool.

How long does it take to heat a swimming pool with a heat pump?

Heating times vary, but heat pumps generally take longer to warm up the pool compared to gas heaters. It can take several days to reach the desired temperature, depending on the pool size and ambient conditions.

Can natural gas heaters be used for quick pool heating?

Yes, natural gas heaters are efficient at rapidly heating the pool water, but they come with higher operating costs compared to heat pumps and solar systems.

Are liquid solar covers effective?

Liquid solar covers form a thin, invisible layer on the pool surface that reduces water evaporation and helps maintain the water temperature. They are a convenient and effective solution.

How can I maximise sun exposure for my pool?

To maximise sun exposure, position your pool in an area that gets plenty of sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing it near trees or buildings that might cast shadows over the pool.