Expert Verified by: David Chen, Energy Efficiency Specialist & Pool Infrastructure Consultant
Estimating the cost to heat your swimming pool is essential for budgeting and choosing the right equipment. This professional pool heater cost calculator helps you determine the energy required and the total financial impact based on your pool volume, desired temperature rise, and local utility rates.
Pool Heater Cost Calculator
Pool Volume (Gallons):
Desired Temp Increase (°F):
Fuel/Energy Type:
Electricity (Heat Pump/Electric)
Natural Gas (Therm)
Propane (Gallon)
Energy Price (per Unit):
Heater Efficiency (%):
Gas ~80%, Propane ~85%, Heat Pump ~300-600%
Estimated Heating Cost
$0.00
Total BTUs: 0
Calculate
Reset
Show Calculation Steps
Pool Heater Cost Calculator Formula:
Reference Source: Energy.gov – Swimming Pool Heating
Variables:
Pool Volume: The total amount of water in your pool in gallons.Temp Rise: The difference between the current water temperature and your goal temperature.Efficiency: The COP (Coefficient of Performance) for heat pumps or the AFUE for gas heaters.Energy Price: Your local cost per kWh, Therm, or Gallon of fuel.
Related Calculators:
What is a Pool Heater Cost Calculator?
A pool heater cost calculator is a specialized tool used to estimate the operational expenses associated with warming pool water. It accounts for the physics of water heating, where one BTU (British Thermal Unit) is required to raise one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
By inputting specific variables such as heater efficiency and local energy rates, pool owners can decide whether to invest in solar, gas, or electric heat pumps to maximize their swimming season while managing utility bills effectively.
How to Calculate Pool Heater Cost (Example):
Find your pool volume (e.g., 10,000 Gallons).
Determine temp rise needed (e.g., 10°F).
Calculate BTUs: 10,000 * 8.33 * 10 = 833,000 BTUs.
Adjust for efficiency: 833,000 / 0.80 (80% efficiency) = 1,041,250 BTUs.
Divide by fuel energy content and multiply by price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
What is the cheapest way to heat a pool? Solar covers and high-efficiency heat pumps are generally the most cost-effective long-term solutions.
How long does it take to heat a pool 10 degrees? It depends on the heater’s BTU output, but typically 12 to 24 hours for average residential pools.
Does pool volume affect heating cost? Yes, the cost is directly proportional to the amount of water you are heating.
Should I run my heater at night? Heating at night is less efficient due to heat loss; using a thermal cover significantly reduces these costs.
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// Constants
const LBS_PER_GALLON = 8.33;
const BTU_PER_KWH = 3412; // Electricity
const BTU_PER_THERM = 100000; // Natural Gas
const BTU_PER_GALLON_LP = 91500; // Propane
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