Gas Pool Heater vs. Electric Heat Pump: Which is Best for Canadian Pools?

Gas Pool Heater vs. Electric Heat Pump

Owning a swimming pool in Canada is a luxury that comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to heating. The climate dictates the need for an efficient and reliable heating system that can extend the swimming season and make outdoor pools usable even in cooler months. Two popular options dominate the market for pool heating solutions—gas pool heaters and electric heat pumps. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one requires a comprehensive understanding of how they work, their costs, efficiency, environmental impact, lifespan, maintenance needs, and installation flexibility.

How Each Unit Works

Gas Pool Heaters

Gas pool heaters work by burning propane or natural gas. The cold water from the pool passes through the pool system and into the heater, where a combustion chamber ignites the gas. The produced heat warms the water, which is then circulated back into the pool. Gas heaters are known for their rapid heating capabilities, making them ideal for quickly raising the pool temperature.

Electric Heat Pumps

Electric heat pumps, on the other hand, use electricity to operate. They extract heat from the ambient air and transfer it to the pool water. The process involves a fan pulling in outside air and directing it over an evaporator coil that contains a liquid refrigerant. This refrigerant absorbs the heat and transforms into a gas. The warm gas then passes through a compressor, increasing the heat, which is transferred to the pool water via a heat exchanger. Heat pumps are highly efficient but work best in moderate to warm climates and struggle when air temperature is on the cooler side.

Initial Installation Cost

Gas Pool Heaters

• Purchase Price: Gas heaters generally cost between $2,000 and $4,000 depending on the BTU rating of the heater.
• Installation: The installation cost can range from $1000 to $4000, depending on the complexity of running gas lines and how far gas lines need to be run. Most gas heaters also require an electrical hook-up.
• Venting: If your installing your gas heater inside a building or shed youll need to budget an additional $1000-$2500 for installation

Electric Heat Pumps

• Purchase Price: Heat pumps are usually more expensive, costing between $2,500 and $6,000 again all depending on the BTU rating of the heat pump.
• Installation: Installation costs range from $1,000 to $3,000, as the installation requires electrical work and adequate space for ventilation. Heat pumps must be installed outdoors and can't be installed in a shed or building.
• Cost Benefit: One advantage of heat pumps is that, despite their higher purchase cost, they eliminate the need for both electrical and gas lines, requiring only an electrical connection. This not only saves on installation expenses but also offers a more convenient and efficient heating solution.

Operating Cost

Gas Pool Heater

Gas heaters have higher operational costs than electric heat pumps. Over a typical swimming season in Canada, the operational cost can easily reach $200 to $500 per month. This cost can vary depending on factors such as the size of the pool, the desired temperature, use of a pool cover and the frequency of use. Gas heaters require the constant consumption of propane or natural gas to generate heat, resulting in higher monthly expenses compared to electric heat pumps but they also generate heat faster in any weather condition.

Electric Heat Pump

Electric heat pumps are more energy-efficient, using electricity to transfer heat rather than generate it. The average heat pump has a COP (Coefficient of Performance) of 4.0, meaning it produces four units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed. This results in lower operating costs, typically around $0.50 to $1.00 per hour of operation. However heat pumps loose efficiency as air temperatures cool and will not provide as long of a swim season as gas pool heaters.

Efficiency

Gas Pool Heater

Gas pool heaters are known for their quick heating capabilities. They can raise the water temperature by 1-3 degrees Fahrenheit per hour, making them ideal for on-demand heating. Overall energy efficiency is low, with average efficiencies ranging between 80% and 85%.

Electric Heat Pump

Heat pumps heat the pool more slowly, generally raising the water temperature by 1 degree Fahrenheit per hour although this depends on the BTU rating of the unit. They are best for maintaining a consistent temperature over long periods and if air temperatures are warm they are more efficient than gas heaters.

Installation Flexibility

Gas Pool Heater

Gas heaters are known for their versatility in installation options. While they are compact and perfect for smaller spaces, it is crucial to ensure proper ventilation and safe gas line connections to guarantee efficient and safe operation. The beauty of gas heaters lies in their adaptability, as they can be installed in various locations as long as there is access to a gas supply. This flexibility makes them a popular choice for pool owners looking for a heating solution that fits their specific space requirements without compromising on performance.

Electric Heat Pump

Heat pumps are BIG and need alot of space for installation. This includes ensuring that there is enough space around the heat pump for proper airflow circulation, as adequate ventilation is crucial for optimal performance. Additionally, electric heat pumps require a reliable and large capacity electrical connection to operate efficiently, making them most suitable for areas where electricity is readily accessible. Proper electrical setup is essential to ensure the heat pump functions effectively and consistently, providing reliable heating for your pool throughout the swimming season.