The Cost of Electric Heat Pump For a Swimming Pool

Last Updated on August 25, 2022
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Whether you want to enjoy your pool even after the first day of autumn or you want to start the season earlier, swimming in the pool should not be conditioned by the temperature of the surrounding environment. In order for the water to become warm enough, you will need a pool heating system. Fortunately, there are several options to choose from.

Electric heat pumps are a very popular water heating option for small pools. In this article, we are going to talk about the costs involved with an electric heat pump for a swimming pool.

How Much Does an Electric Heat Pump For a Swimming Pool Cost?

The cost of an electric heat pump for a swimming pool is set according to COP (coefficient of performance) and BTUs. So, the prices can start at around $2,000 to $3,000 and go up to around $5,000.

Also, there are other factors that affect the heat pump’s operating costs, such as the desired pool temperature, whether a pool cover is used or not, and the geographic area. According to the United States Department of Energy (DOE), you could spend around $1,500 for keeping an outdoor uncovered pool in Miami at 80 degrees all year, while for a covered pool the costs will be only $300.

On the other hand, if you are living in Boston and want to keep a pool at 80 degrees from May until August, you will have to spend around $1,100 for an uncovered pool and just $130 for a covered pool.

In the table below you will find the average costs of heating an outdoor pool with a heat pump, depending on location.

Table taken from the Energy.gov website

Also, you need to consider the costs of installing the swimming pool heat pump. Be prepared to pay anywhere between $400 and $500 for a professional. It is recommended to hire an expert because heat pumps need a dedicated breaker and almost the entire installation work is electrical.

What are the additional expenses?

Some of the extra costs you need to consider when talking about the electric heat pump for a swimming pool are the repairs and service that may be needed over time. Also, you need to consider an annual tune-up. If you want to see what is the recommended maintenance schedule, consult the heat pump manufacturer’s manual.

How does it work?

The electric heat pump is one of the most economical options for heating the water in the pool, thanks to its low energy consumption. The electric heat pump extracts the heat present in the ambient environment and uses it, through an intermediate fluid, in the pool water to heat it.

Therefore, with the help of a high-performance heat pump, under favorable conditions, you will pay only 15% of the heat, 85% being free.

You might also like our articles on the cost of pool closing services, pool acid washing, and pool water delivery.

Electric heat pumps rely exclusively on electricity and this comes with both advantages and disadvantages.

The advantages of electric heat pumps

• They are very efficient;
• Low consumption costs;
• Sustainable;
• They are silent;
• They are environmentally friendly;
• They are easy to use.

Disadvantages of heat pumps

• High acquisition cost;
• They depend on the temperature of the environment;
• It may take a long time for the water to heat up.

How long does it take for the water to heat up?

Depending on the power of the heater and the capacity of the pool, it may take about 2 days for the water to heat up.

Other options for heating the swimming pool water

Gas heaters are also popular with pool owners. However, they come with more disadvantages than advantages compared to other options and are not highly recommended by specialists.

Heat exchangers are a very efficient option for swimming pool heating. Provided that the energy source you use to heat the home is sufficient, these exchangers use the home’s heating system to transfer heat to the pool water when it is not being used by your home.

Heating systems based on solar energy. At first glance, solar pool heating seems very attractive: solar energy is free, thus resulting in almost non-existent costs after installation, and it is also eco-friendly, so you do not pollute the environment at all.

How can I save money?

If you own a pool and want to reduce heating costs as much as possible, but also keep it in the best possible condition for as long as possible, use the special tarpaulins to cover the pool regardless of the season and regardless of the heating system you use.