Choosing the right swimming pool heater is an individual decision. Swimming pools aren't just for summer enjoyment. Many people love to swim throughout the year for exercise, socialization or relaxation. If you live in a region where the climate changes very quickly, or you just don't like cold water, a pool heater might be a good thing to have under your belt. Once you make a decision to get a pool heater, the next choice is what kind of heater to buy.

Now that you are considering heating your pool, you'll need to decide on the type of heater and your budget for the installation. The next question is whether or not you're going to cover the pool with a blanket when not in use. For simplicity, let's divide pool heating equipment into three types: Gas, Electric and Solar.
Gas heaters are typically less costly to purchase and more expensive for heating the pool. Gas heaters are available in two types, natural gas and methane. One advantage for gas heaters is the ability to heat the water relatively quickly.

The second category to consider is electric. This category can be divided into two types: Immersion and Heat Exchangers. Because of the high cost of electric immersion heaters, they are only practical in small pools and spas. Heat exchangers typically are higher in cost to purchase, but lower than gas to keep the pool heated. Heat exchangers use time proven technology which is similar to an air conditioner working in reverse. Heat exchangers are not designed to rapidly heat the pool, but slowly heat the pool and then maintain the desired temperature.

Finally, solar heaters - these are intermediate in cost and practically nothing to keep the pool heated. Solar heaters are sized according to the surface of the pool. Look at the surface and determine where all those panels will be placed.

One of the first things mentioned to consider is whether you are going to cover the pool with a blanket when not in use. This will greatly reduce the cost of heating your pool regardless of the type of pool heater you may consider. If you decide not to buy a heater, consider Solar blankets, which are a low-cost, effective way of heating your pool. They are capable of raising the temperature in a pool between 5 and 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Can you imagine 80 degrees versus 70 degrees? Solar blankets can easily extend the swimming pool season 1-2 months on each end of the cold winter months.

Considering all your options will definitely help you to decide the exact type of swimming pool heater you require.