Pool Heat Pump vs Gas Heater: Which Is Better?

Is the weather dictating your swimming season? Is your pool heater burning a hole in your pocket? Struggling to decide which heater to buy? Or unable to find one that fits your budget, performance needs, and heating speed?

Not anymore. You won’t have to be clueless any longer. This guide breaks down everything you need to know when comparing a pool heat pump vs gas heater. We’ll discuss the differences in cost, efficiency, heating speed, heat pump vs gas pool heater pros and cons, maintenance, and long-term savings to help you choose the right option for your pool.

What Is the Difference Between a Pool Heat Pump and a Gas Heater?

The fundamental difference between how pool heat pumps work and a gas heater is the way these two systems create warmth for the pool. While a heat pump captures warmth from outside air and transfers the heat into pool water, a gas heater uses natural gas or propane as fuel to heat the water.

A heat pump pool heater simply moves heat from one place to another. Gas heaters, in contrast, create heat from scratch by burning fuel.

The former is one of the most energy-efficient pool heaters with a cheap operating cost. However, it heats water slowly and is suited best for warmer climates. The latter, on the other hand, warms the pool quickly and instantly, irrespective of the outside climate. On the flip side, gas heaters carry the highest operating cost and are less eco-friendly than heat pool pumps. Owing to their speed and reliable performance, all-year-round gas heaters are preferred by spontaneous swimmers and owners who want to warm the pool on short notice. 

How Does a Pool Heat Pump Work?

An air source heat pump pool heater borrows heat from the surrounding air and transfers the warmth into the swimming pool. The process kicks off when the pump uses a fan to pull this air into its system. 

The air travels through a set of coils that contains a special liquid called refrigerant (a substance that absorbs heat from the air). When the air sucks in the heat, it turns from a liquid gas, which then enters a compressor (a part of a machine that squeezes the gas tightly together to increase the pressure and generate warmth). 

In the end, the hot gas passes through a heat exchanger (condenser), where the heat is transferred from one source to another, without mixing. The heated water flows through the pump and back into the pool, while the refrigerant gas cools back down into a liquid to start the cycle all over again.  

How Does a Gas Pool Heater Work?

A natural gas pool heater or a propane pool heater, unlike heat pool pumps, creates its own heat from scratch. It burns fuel such as natural gas or propane to create warmth.

The process kicks off when the heater is switched on. The pump sends the water into the system, which then moves through a series of small tubes inside the heater. At the same time, a flame is generated when the gas burner ignites to generate heat.

The flame warms the heat exchanger. When the water passes through the heat exchanger, it sucks in the heat from the burner. The warmed water returns to the pool, slowly raising the pool’s temperature.

Pool Heat Pump vs Gas Heater: Heating Speed Comparison

Below is a comparison table highlighting the difference between heat pump vs gas heating speed:

Which Is More Energy Efficient?

Heat pool pumps are renowned for optimum use of energy. Measured in COP (coefficient of performance), the COP metric showcases how much energy a unit produces as compared to the electricity it uses. An energy-efficient heat pump will generally have a COP of 5.0 to 7.0. However, these systems are environment-sensitive. Since heat pool pumps extract warmth from the air, any factor such as temperature, humidity, and airflow affects their performance. For instance, in warmer climates, the system performs better, generating more heat and using less electricity. But in colder climates, their efficiency drops, leading to slower heating.

Gas heaters are considered as the “brute force” alternative. The indicator of their energy efficiency is measured in thermal efficiency, denoted in percentage. The metric indicates how much fuel is converted to heat energy. A high-efficiency gas heater boasts a solid 80% to 95% efficiency. While these units deliver consistent performance across all seasons and heat the pool quickly, consistent and regular use of gas heaters spikes up the energy consumption and the operating cost. 

So, when it comes to heat pump vs gas heater efficiency, the former takes the lead as it consumes less energy while delivering more heat. Moreover, these units offer steady & energy-efficient performance and also deliver long-term savings.

Heat Pump vs Gas Heater Operating Cost

Heat pumps are one of the most economical pool heaters to exist. The cost to run pool heat pump or an average residential pool falls between $50 and $150. However, electricity rates, pool size, and climate conditions can lead to cost fluctuations. For instance, pools in warmer regions generally cost less to heat. On the flip side, the cost of operating a heat pump in colder regions may go up to $120 to $220 since the pump operates around 8–10 hours per day. 

The cost to run a gas pool heater monthly depends on the fluctuating market prices of natural gas or propane. Since these units require more fuel to run, it translates to a higher operating cost. On average, it costs around $200-$500 per month, but the prices can increase when more propane is used or when the pool is used regularly. 

A gas heater saves installation and initial purchase money, but quickly bridges the gap with higher monthly bills. It costs around $3- $5 times higher than the electricity used by a heat pump. When considering lower bills, long-term savings, and wallet-friendly investment, the clear winner between heat pump vs gas heater operating cost is heat pool pumps.

Installation Cost Comparison

Gas heaters are cheaper to install, especially if your home already uses natural gas. Owing to the simple technology and compact units, these systems are cheaper to manufacture. The average purchase and installation cost of a gas heater stands between $1,500 to $4,500. In contrast, a heat pump typically starts at $2,000 to $6,000 for a full installation. The difference between these cost are explained in various factors listed below:

Gas Heater Installation Cost Factors

1. Existing and Adequate Gas Supply: When the existing gas supply is adequate, it means no new gas line trenching or metering is needed, which translates to $1000-$3000 in savings. 

2. Meter and Pressure Extensions: When a high-capacity meter or pressure regulator is installed due to a small home meter, it adds to the gas pool heater installation cost.

3. Ventilation and safety: The cost of gas heaters increases when installed with spot-on ventilation and safety measures by certified professionals.

4. Pool size and heater capacity: High-capacity large pools with higher BTU ratings need more gas supply, which may lead to higher installation costs.  

Heat Pump Installation Cost Factors

1. Existing Electrical Capacity: When a new or upgraded electrical setup is needed, it can spike the installation cost by $750-$1000.

2. High Equipment Price: The cost of equipment alone for a heat pump falls between $2,500 and $7,500, which is considerably higher than a gas heater.

3. Open Space and Airflow: Unlike gas heaters, which are suitable for compact spaces, heat pumps need ample space and fresh air to function. The placement variable can also affect the cost for better or for worse.

4. Professional electrical and plumbing work: The labor cost for electrical and plumbing connections can reach $800 to $2,000, or more, depending on the complexity of the task.

Maintenance Requirements: Which Is Easier?

Heat pool pumps are deemed as low-maintenance equipment as compared to gas pool heaters. The best-case scenario is that these units require a basic inspection once or twice a year, which is enough for smooth operations. The basic requirement is to keep the evaporator clean and free of debris like leaves, grass clippings, or spider webs. It's also important to check drainage holes for proper condensation and electrical wiring connections. However, if any major internal component, like the compressor or the refrigerant, malfunctions, it may require a specialized HVAC technician to repair and reinstall. 

Due to the complex process of fuel combustion, gas heaters are in need of ‘active maintenance’.  With regular use, components like the burner, heat exchanger, and ignition system will accumulate dirt or corrosion. The basic maintenance includes proper ventilation inspections, periodic cleaning of burners, and checking the gas connections. Besides, gas heaters are to be kept free of pests during the off-season, as spiders and small rodents love to nest in the burner, which can lead to dangerous clogs or uneven burning.

The bottom line is that heat pool pumps are easier to maintain with less wear and tear in components and less frequent servicing. On the other hand, gas heaters demand a professional, complex, and expensive maintenance setup.

Lifespan Comparison

Heat pool pumps are more suited for long-term operation with an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Due to a simple and less demanding heating mechanism, the internal components do not experience excessive heat strain. Therefore, not only can these systems run for longer periods, but they also offer reliable and energy-efficient performance throughout the year. With proper maintenance, sometimes these units can last up to 20 years. 

Gas heaters have a shorter lifespan compared to heat pumps, lasting for 5 to 10 years. Due to the fuel combustion process, components such as the burner and heat exchanger experience higher temperatures and wear over time. While these units are perfect for heating pools on short notice, they have a short operational life.

Climate Considerations: Which Heater Works Best in Your Area?

Climate is the most important factor that affects the performance of heat pool pumps. Regions with mild to warm climates, where the air stays above $50$°F ($10$°C), are perfectly suited to heat pool pumps. However, these units struggle in colder regions when the temperature drops below 45°F.

Gas heaters remain unaffected by outside temperatures. They are the best pool heater type for colder regions or areas with unpredictable weather, as these units can heat your pool reliably, consistently, and as quickly at $30$°F as they do at $80$°F. 

While the former is better for warm climates and regular pool usage, the latter is an ideal choice for occasional use and colder climates. 

Environmental Impact Comparison

When exploring eco-friendly pool heater options, heat pool pumps stand out as a popular choice. These units rely on a small amount of electricity; therefore, their emissions depend on the power source. For units powered by clean energy sources such as solar or renewable, these systems are low-carbon footprint pool heaters. On average, a heat pump emits 0.8 to 1.2 tons of CO2 per season. There might be a small amount of e-waste due to electricity usage. However, if the unit is not recycled properly at the end of its life, the refrigerant gases can act as potent greenhouse gases.

Gas heaters release greenhouse gases directly into the atmosphere, having a higher environmental impact. In a single season, the use of gas heaters can emit up to 3 to 7 tons of CO2. Even the most energy-efficient gas heaters are harmful to the planet as they use non-renewable energy sources. 

Pros and Cons Summary Table

The table below compares the gas heater vs heat pump pool heater pros and cons:

Which Pool Heater Is Better for You?

The choice between heat pool pumps and gas heaters boils down to the factors listed below:

1. Budget: Gas heaters boast a lower upfront purchase and installation cost but a higher operating cost. On the contrary, heat pump equipment has a higher installation cost but leads to lower operating costs and more savings in the long-run. 

2. Climate: Heat pumps perform best in warm or moderate climates, but Gas heaters are the better option in cooler climates

3. Usage Frequency: For owners who want to keep their pool heated regularly or for daily swimmers, a heat pump is an energy-efficient unit, suitable for longer periods of operation. Gas heaters are more suitable for occasional pool use, especially when you only want to heat the pool on short notice, usually before certain swims or events.

4. Heating Urgency: Gas heaters win when compared on the basis of heating speed. They can raise the water temperature quickly, sometimes within a few hours, while heat pumps warm the water more gradually.

5. Long-Term Savings: Heat pumps consume less energy, leading to lower operating costs and higher energy efficiency. Gas heaters, though, cost less to purchase upfront and have a higher fuel consumption and monthly bills. 

The factors discussed will help you make the right choice, so look for a system that checks every box, whether it’s cost, heating speed, climate compatibility, or your overall lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

Say yes to budget-friendly, energy-efficient, long-term savings and a fantastic swimming season all year round with Varminpool. Explore our range of energy-efficient pool heaters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a heat pump cheaper than a gas heater?

Heat pool pumps have a higher upfront purchase and installation cost as the equipment alone is expensive. But when compared on the basis of operating costs, a heat pump is cheaper to run than a gas heater.

Does a heat pump work in cold weather?

Yes, but only to a certain extent. When the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C), these units struggle to perform as there is not enough thermal energy in the air, causing the heaters to shut down or run constantly without actually warming the water.

Which heater heats a pool faster?

Gas heaters can heat a pool quickly, sometimes within a span of a few hours, raising pool temperatures by 1°F to 3°F per hour. Heat pumps, on the contrary, warm a pool steadily, raising the temperature by only 0.25°F to 0.5°F per hour.

How long does a gas pool heater last?

The lifespan of a gas heater is around 5-10 years. Due to intense heat cycles and complex processes, their lifespan is shorter than that of the heat pool pumps. Besides, the maintenance requirements of a gas heater are also more demanding than those of a pool pump. 

Is a heat pump worth the investment?

When used regularly, a heat pump is worth it. Despite the higher installation cost, the benefits of heat pumps are many, such as lower operating costs, longer lifespan (around 10–15 years), and better energy efficiency, which can lead to long-term savings over time.