No, it is generally not cheaper to keep a pool heater on all the time. In fact, it's a common misconception that maintaining a constant pool temperature is more energy-efficient than letting it cool down and then reheating it. Lowering the temperature or turning off your pool heater when not in use can significantly reduce energy consumption and save you money.
Understanding Pool Heating Costs
Pool heaters consume a substantial amount of energy, whether they are gas, electric, or heat pump models. The cost of heating your pool is directly related to the amount of heat lost to the environment and the duration your heater operates to compensate for that loss.
- Heat Loss: Pools continuously lose heat to the air, ground, and through evaporation. The larger the temperature difference between the pool water and the ambient air, the faster the heat loss.
- Energy Consumption: A heater running constantly will always be working to counteract this ongoing heat loss, leading to continuous energy expenditure.
The Myth Debunked: Reheating vs. Constant Heating
Many pool owners believe that reheating a cold pool requires more energy than simply keeping it warm 24/7. This is incorrect. The reality is that the energy saved by not constantly heating the pool during periods of disuse far outweighs the energy needed to bring it back up to the desired temperature when you plan to use it again.
Think of it like heating your home: you typically turn down your thermostat when you leave for work or go to bed, rather than keeping it at a high temperature all day and night. The principle for pools is similar.
| Strategy | Energy Consumption | Cost Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Heater On All The Time | Higher | More Expensive |
| Adjusting Temperature | Lower | Saves Money |
When to Adjust Your Pool Heater
To maximize savings, consider adjusting your pool heater in these scenarios:
- When Not in Use for Several Days: If you know the pool won't be used for an extended period, such as during a vacation or a few consecutive weekdays, turn down the temperature significantly or turn the heater off entirely.
- Overnight: While not as impactful as multi-day shutdowns, slightly lowering the temperature overnight can offer minor savings, especially in cooler climates.
- During Cooler Weather: As outside temperatures drop, your heater has to work harder. If the pool won't be used, there's no need to pay for heating when heat loss is at its peak.
Practical Tips for Saving Pool Heating Energy
Implementing a smart heating strategy can lead to substantial savings over a swimming season.
- Utilize a Pool Cover: A pool cover is the single most effective way to reduce heat loss, especially through evaporation, which accounts for 70% of heat loss. This will allow you to run your heater less often.
- Lower the Thermostat Setting: Even lowering your pool temperature by a few degrees (e.g., from 80°F to 78°F) can result in significant energy savings over time, as less heat is lost to the environment.
- Schedule Heating: If your heater has a programmable thermostat or timer, use it to heat the pool only when you plan to use it, rather than maintaining a constant temperature.
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure your pool heater is well-maintained and operating efficiently. A well-tuned heater uses less energy.
- Consider Alternative Heating: For long-term savings, explore solar pool heaters, which can be a very cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to supplement or replace traditional heating.
By actively managing your pool heater and not leaving it on continuously, you can enjoy a warm pool while significantly reducing your energy bills. For more information on managing swimming pool temperature for energy efficiency, visit the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Saver website.
