THE PROS & CONS OF SOLAR POOL HEATING

The most responsible and energy-efficient way to heat your pool, and relatively inexpensive, as there is no cost for running a solar heater, it will save you on energy bills. This method will extend your pool’s ability to retain heat beyond the summer months by collecting sun through your pool filter pump. Since you likely already have a filter if you own a pool, you’re pretty much good to go as there are no additional parts—unless you’re pushing it up onto a roof, then you may need an extra pump. It’s a pretty simple concept, just like if you left a hose lying around in the garden, soaking up the sun, if you went to turn on the tap hot water would come out; or if you leave the pool system running overnight with the cover on for maintenance—that’s how solar heating systems work. 

Essentially, the solar collectors are connected to the pumping system, and the input side of the solar panel is exposed to sunlight, the output of the solar pool pump flows back into the pool. There may be more upfront costs associated with solar—it’ll probably cost an average Australian pool around $5000-$8000 – but it’s a worthwhile investment because it will save you in the long run. You also won’t have to worry about wear and tear, because there are no moving parts and the system won’t burn out like traditional pool heating systems. The only thing you need to be cautious about is any overhanging branches and garden obstructions hitting the system and causing damage in that way, but even so, the likelihood of that is minimal. Solar heating, for the pool, the home and commercial buildings is on the rise, and as more options flood the market, there’s bound to be one that works for you and your family. 

ADVANTAGES OF SOLAR POOL HEATING 

Here are some more pros of solar heating systems:

• Little to no maintenance 
• Zero running costs
• Eco-friendly 
• Prolonged lifespan 
• Keeps your pool warm throughout the Summer season and potentially longer 
• Raises the temperature of your pool even in Winter
• Keeps even Melbourne pools heated—and we know how inconsistent that can be!

THE PROS & CONS OF GAS POOL HEATING

Gas pool heating has been around for yonks, and is one of the most common heating methods—though many people argue it’s on its way out! The popularity of gas heaters is likely due to their smaller upfront costs and the fact that they’ve been around for about as long as pools have been. But now that more energy-efficient options are available, such as solar pool heating systems and pump heating systems, we’re probably going to see it tank in the coming years. The downside of gas is that it does generate exhaust fumes and pollution that can be harmful to us and the environment. Plus, the price of gas is growing (and this can have an impact on the cost of running the heating system) and the lifespan of gas heating may be shorter than solar alternatives. Gas pool heaters operate on propane or natural gas and with the help of copper coils, burn them in a combustion chamber; allowing them to heat up before travelling back down to the pool. These are the basic principles behind gas pool heating systems. With all of these contributors to the diminishing popularity of gas pool heating, what are the advantages of the gas heating system?

ADVANTAGES OF GAS POOL HEATING

• Gas systems can keep your pool consistently warm year-round, even in the dead of winter
• While it wasn’t traditionally the most eco-conscious heating method, there are now more energy-efficient models available. You can also upgrade your current model by connecting a solar pump heating system to your gas pool, minimising its environmental impact.
• Lower installation costs when compared to solar pool heaters
• While gas pool heaters are costly to leave running all day long, if you’re someone who likes to schedule in certain times to swim, you can set your gas heater to warm up when it suits you. If you’re wanting to keep it heated constantly, for spontaneous dips in the pool, you might want to look into the other options instead, such as the solar heating system

The Pros & Cons of Electric Pool Heating

Electric pool heating systems are much like an electric household appliance we’re all familiar with: the kettle. Electricity heats up the coils, and this, in turn, heats up the water in the chamber. While it’s not the most efficient option by any stretch of the imagination, it does heat water up fast! While similar to gas heating systems in terms of benefits and disadvantages, the main difference lies in the fact that it generates less pollution.

HEAT YOUR POOL AND SPA TODAY!

If you’re in need of a new pool heating system or even on the lookout for your first pool or spa, Laguna Pools offer high-quality pools and pool accessories to maximise your comfort and relaxation. Browse our pool and spa heating options to find the best system for your home.