Propane Pool Heater Buying Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Propane heaters are among the most popular options for heating above ground pools today. While using fossil fuels like propane does have some environmental impact, these heaters remain highly favored due to their exceptional heating efficiency.

In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about propane heaters—from understanding their benefits and key features to navigating installation, maintenance, and cost considerations

Propane Heater offer several advantages over other heating options:

• Quick Heating: They can heat your pool water rapidly, allowing you to reach comfortable swimming temperatures faster.
• Environmental Impact: While propane is a fossil fuel and produces more CO2 than natural gas, it’s still considered a relatively “clean” fuel compared to other types of gas.
• Reliability: Propane heaters are less dependent on grid power, making them a reliable choice in areas prone to power outages.

Key Factors to Consider

Budget

Propane heaters can be a bit pricey, with initial costs ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the size and features. But that’s not the whole picture—you’ll also need to think about ongoing costs, like the price of propane.

For instance, as of August 2024, propane costs around $2.40 per gallon on average in the U.S. But in my area, Arizona, it’s about $3.04 per gallon. So, if you’re heating a 20,000-gallon pool from 70°F to 80°F, you might use about 12 gallons of propane. At $3 per gallon, that’s roughly $36 for just one heating session.

Of course, your actual costs might vary depending on how often you use the heater and other factors.

Brand

Here are some well-known brands that offer propane heaters specifically for above ground pools:

1. Hayward – Known for their Hayward H-Series propane heaters, which are popular for their energy efficiency and reliability.
2. Pentair – Their MasterTemp series is highly regarded for fast heating and ease of use.
3. Raypak – The Raypak Digital series is a trusted choice for its durability and precise temperature control.
4. Sta-Rite – Another reputable brand, offering the Max-E-Therm propane heaters, known for their compact design and efficient heating.

BTU and Pool Size

BTU, or British Thermal Units, measures how much heat energy it takes to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

When sizing a propane heater for your above ground pool, a simple rule is to multiply your pool’s volume in gallons by 10. So, if you have a 20,000-gallon pool, you’d generally look for a heater with around 200,000 BTUs.

But keep in mind, this is just a ballpark figure. There are many other factors that can influence the exact BTU needed, such as your local climate, how often you use the pool etc.

Climate

While Propane heaters are built to handle extreme weather conditions, like heating your pool in the middle of a cold winter, Heat Pumps and Solar heaters just can’t match up. To ensure your pool stays warm and comfortable, especially in harsh conditions, you’ll need a propane heater with a higher capacity than the standard options

Intended Use

Think about when you plan to use your pool—just in the warmer months, or do you want to extend your swimming season into the cooler spring and fall?

If you’re aiming to swim in early spring or late fall, you’ll need a stronger heater to counter those cooler air temperatures.

• For example, if you want to use your pool (with 20,000 gallons water) in early spring or late fall, a propane heater with a higher BTU output, like 250,000 BTUs, will heat the water quickly, making it comfortable even when the air is chilly.

Now, if you’re hosting a pool party or special event, you might need a heater that can warm up the pool fast, especially if the weather suddenly turns cooler.

• For instance, if you have a party scheduled for early May and the forecast calls for cooler temperatures, a propane heater with a big power output, like 300,000 BTUs, can raise the pool temperature by 10 degrees in just a few hours, ensuring your guests can enjoy a warm and inviting swim.

Energy Efficiency

When choosing a propane heater, aim for one with a thermal efficiency rating above 80%. While high-end models might cost more upfront, they’ll save you money in the long run by being more fuel-efficient.

Some of the best models can reach up to 95% efficiency, consuming about 1 gallon of propane per 100,000 BTUs, and they offer fast heating capabilities.

Solar Cover

Don’t forget to use a Solar Cover—it’s something I always stress in my articles. If you leave your above ground pool uncovered overnight, especially in colder climates, you’ll lose most of the heat you’ve built up.

This means you’ll have to reheat the pool the next day, which is not only wasteful but also costly. A dark blue Solar Cover can help retain that heat, saving you energy and keeping your pool warm.

Maintenance

Propane heaters can be a bit more complex to maintain compared to other types of heaters due to the fuel tank (or hose) and burner components. Here are some essential maintenance tasks:

Routine Inspections:

• Regularly check the heater for any signs of damage or wear.
• Ensure proper venting and make sure there’s enough clearance around the unit.
• Verify that all controls and safety features are working correctly.

Cleaning:

• Clean the burner assembly to remove any debris or buildup that might affect performance.
• Keep the area around the heater free from leaves, grass, and other debris.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning or replacing filters to keep your heater running efficiently.

Conclusion

Investing in a propane pool heater can significantly enhance your swimming experience by extending your pool season and providing comfortable water temperatures year-round.
Key takeaways include:

1. Understand Your Needs: Consider your pool size, desired temperature, climate to determine the appropriate BTU rating and heater size.
2. Energy Efficiency Matters: Look for high-efficiency models that can help reduce operational costs and environmental impact.