Pool Equipment – Pool Heating FAQs

The four primary heating options are:

• Electric heat pumps (standard on/off)

• Inverter heat pumps (high-efficiency variable output)

• Gas heaters (LPG or natural gas)

• Solar heating (roof-mounted matting)

Each system heats water differently and suits different climates, budgets and usage habits.

It operates like a reverse-cycle air conditioner. The system extracts heat from the outside air and transfers it into the pool water. It cycles on/off to maintain your set temperature.

Pros:

• Reliable and widely available

• More efficient than traditional resistance heaters

• Great for long swimming seasons

• “Set and forget” style operation

Cons:

• Less efficient than inverter models

• Performance drops in very cold weather

• Requires adequate switchboard capacity

Families wanting dependable heating across spring–autumn without investing in top-tier inverter technology.

An inverter heat pump adjusts its output instead of simply turning on/off. It runs at low speeds most of the time, maintaining water temperature quietly and efficiently.

Pros:

• Highest efficiency of all electric options

• Lower running costs

• Very quiet operation

• Smooth temperature control

• Excellent for year-round use

Cons:

• Higher upfront price

• More complex electronics (choose reputable brands)

Homeowners who swim often, want stable warm water, and plan to keep their pool long-term. Ideal for families using their pool across multiple seasons.

Gas heaters burn natural gas or LPG. Water flows through a heat exchanger, instantly warming before returning to the pool or spa.

Pros:

• Fastest heating method

• Works in all weather and temperatures

• Perfect for spas and occasional heating

• Great for one-off weekend use

Cons:

• Highest running cost (particularly LPG)

• Requires gas supply or bottles

• Not ideal for continuous heating

• Higher emissions than electric or solar

Spa owners, occasional swimmers, holiday homes, and anyone who values rapid heating more than long-term running costs.

Water is pumped through black rubber or PVC strips on your roof, where it is warmed by the sun before returning to the pool. It relies almost entirely on solar energy.

Pros:

• Lowest running cost

• Excellent for extending the swim season

• Simple system with few moving parts

• Can be paired with heat pumps for hybrid setups

Cons:

• Dependent on sunshine

• Less effective in cool or cloudy climates

• Requires suitable roof space and orientation

• Doesn’t heat as high as electric or gas

Households in warmer regions wanting a cost-effective way to extend swimming from spring to autumn, without needing guaranteed hot water year-round.

• Inverter heat pumps – lowest ongoing cost among powered systems

• Solar – lowest running cost overall (sun-powered)

Gas has the highest running cost due to fuel prices.

Gas heaters. Nothing else matches the speed, making them ideal for spas or spontaneous use.

Inverter heat pumps, especially on low and medium output. They are significantly quieter than standard electric pumps.

Solar heating has the lowest environmental impact. Inverter heat pumps are next due to their high efficiency. Gas has the highest emissions.

Most domestic units run on single-phase power. Larger models or rapid-heating units may require three-phase. We can help determine suitability based on your pool size and climate.

Yes. Common combinations include:

• Solar + Inverter heat pump → lowest running cost with guaranteed temperature

• Gas + Heat pump → rapid spa heating + efficient pool heating

Hybrid setups are ideal when families want comfort, efficiency, and reliability.

Typically 60–100% of your pool’s surface area. North-facing roofs perform best, followed by west, then east.

Inverter heat pump → best balance of cost, comfort and reliability

Gas heater (supplement) → ideal for spas or rapid heating

Solar alone is not recommended for year-round use.

• Electric Heat Pump: Reliable everyday heating for most budgets

• Inverter Heat Pump: Maximum efficiency and comfort

• Gas Heater: Fast heating for spas and occasional use

• Solar Heating: Cheapest to run, best for seasonal extension

The ideal system depends on how often you swim, your climate, roof layout, and budget.