What are some eco-friendly ways to heat my pool?
Four eco-friendly options are a solar cover, a liquid solar blanket, a solar heating system, and a heat pump. Covers help keep heat in, while solar heating systems and heat pumps add heat using the sun or the surrounding air instead of burning gas.
Start by keeping in the heat you already have, then add heat if you need more. A solar cover is recommended with any heating system, because it helps hold in heat no matter where that heat comes from.
Compare your options
Important: A solar cover is not a safety cover. Remove it completely before anyone swims, and never leave it partly in place.
| Option | What it does | Adds heat? | Works best when |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solar cover | Floats on the water, captures the sun's energy during the day, and limits heat loss overnight | Yes, from the sun | The pool is not in use |
| Liquid solar blanket | Forms a thin layer on the water's surface that helps keep heat from escaping | No | You want to hold heat in while people swim, alongside another heat source |
| Solar heating system | Your pool pump circulates water through solar panels, where the sun warms it | Yes, from the sun | The panels get sunlight |
| Heat pump | Draws warmth from the surrounding air | Yes, from the air | The outdoor air stays above about 45°F to 50°F |
Solar heating systems are cost-competitive with gas and heat pump heaters, have low annual operating costs, and add no fuel cost once installed.
Before you buy a heat pump
- A heat pump works efficiently while the outdoor air stays above about 45°F to 50°F. The cooler the air, the less efficient it becomes, and the U.S. Department of Energy suggests heat pumps for mild climates.
- Heat pumps are efficient to run but heat the water more slowly than a gas heater.
- Install the heat pump in a well-ventilated area near your pool equipment, clear of foliage and debris.
Shop eco-friendly heating
- Solar covers for inground pools or above ground pools
- Solar balls, a liquid solar blanket you place in your skimmer basket
- Inground pool heaters and heat pumps, including solar heating systems
- Above ground pool heaters in gas, solar, and heat pump options
More on pool heating
- How Does a Pool Heater Work?
- How to Heat a Swimming Pool (Without a Heater)
- Liquid Solar Blankets: Keep Your Pool Warm
- Is solar pool heating really a better option?
- What is the difference between heating with gas and a heat pump?
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