How Much Does Pool Heating Cost? A Complete Homeowner’s Guide

1. What Determines Pool Heating Cost?

Pool heating costs vary widely because several factors influence how much energy is required to raise and maintain water temperature.

Pool Size and Surface Area

Larger pools require more energy to heat. A 20,000-gallon pool naturally costs more to warm than a 10,000-gallon pool because there is more water volume and more exposed surface for heat loss.

Desired Temperature Increase

Raising the water from 68°F to 82°F is far more expensive than maintaining it within a narrower range. Doubling the degree increase roughly doubles energy costs.

Climate and Sun Exposure

Homes in cooler coastal regions, heavily shaded yards, or areas with strong evening temperature drops will spend more on pool heating than regions with long, sunny days and mild nights.

Wind Exposure

Wind accelerates evaporation—which is the #1 cause of heat loss in pools. Even a moderate breeze can raise heating costs dramatically.

Heating System Type

Different heater technologies have different operating costs, efficiencies, and speed of heating. This is usually the biggest factor.

2. Pool Heater Types and Their Operating Costs

Below are the three most common types of pool heating systems, along with typical monthly operating costs. Exact amounts vary by region and utility rates, but these are realistic national averages.

Gas Pool Heaters (Natural Gas or Propane)

• Installation Cost: $3,000–$7,000

• Monthly Heating Cost: $200–$600

• Best For: Fast heating, sporadic use, early-season or late-season swimming

Gas pool heaters can raise water temperatures quickly, even in cold weather, but they have the highest ongoing operating cost. Propane is even more expensive than natural gas, especially in areas with high fuel delivery prices.

Electric Heat Pumps

• Installation Cost: $3,500–$8,500

• Monthly Heating Cost: $80–$200

• Best For: Regular usage, mild to warm climates, long-term efficiency

Electric Pool Heat pumps cost more upfront but are significantly cheaper to run. They don’t heat as fast as gas, but they maintain temperatures efficiently and perform well in climates where air temperatures stay above ~55°F.

Solar Pool Heaters

• Installation Cost: $4,000–$12,000

• Monthly Heating Cost: $0–$20 (virtually free after installation)

• Best For: Long-term savings, eco-friendly heating, sunny regions

Solar systems rely on rooftop or ground-mounted panels. They have almost no operating costs, but heating speed depends on sunlight, and cloudy weeks can reduce water temperature.

3. Typical Monthly Heating Costs by Region

Regular, daily pool usage typically results in the following seasonal cost ranges:

• Cooler northern climates: $200–$600 per month (gas), $100–$250 (heat pump)

• Moderate climates: $150–$400 (gas), $80–$150 (heat pump)

• Warm coastal or sunny regions: $100–$300 (gas), $50–$120 (heat pump), $0–$20 (solar)

If you maintain your pool at 80°F+ for months at a time, expect costs to trend toward the higher end of these ranges.

4. How to Reduce Pool Heating Costs

Regardless of heater type, you can dramatically reduce heating expenses with a few simple upgrades.

Use a Solar Cover or Automatic Cover

A solar cover can reduce heat loss by up to 70%. This is the single most effective way to lower heating bills.

Install a Windbreak

Fences, shrubs, and privacy walls reduce evaporation and heat loss from wind exposure.

Optimize Run Times

Heat pumps are most efficient during daytime hours when air temperatures are higher.

Lower the Target Temperature

Even a 2–3 degree reduction can cut energy use significantly.

Maintain Equipment

A clean filter, proper water chemistry, and well-functioning heater maximize efficiency.

5. So… How Much Will You Spend?

Here is the simplified breakdown:

• Gas Heater: Most expensive to run, fastest to heat

• Heat Pump: Most efficient for regular use

• Solar Heater: Highest upfront cost, lowest long-term cost

If you use your pool frequently and want consistent temperatures, a heat pump or solar system usually offers the best balance of comfort and cost. If you only want fast heating for occasional weekends, a gas heater may be the most practical choice.

Contact Hamptons Pool Design


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