POOL designs by LAND ART Landscape Architecture
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SWIMMING POOL HEATERS

    Pool heaters allow you to control the temperature of your water and reduce fluctuation which may produce algae and bacteria. Pool heaters also ensure that you will still be able to get use out of your pool during cooler months. There are basically three different types of pool heaters: gas pool heaters, heat pump pool heaters, and solar pool heaters. Which type of pool heater you decide to install is based on how you use your pool, the climate, efficiency, and cost. Below is a description of each of the different types of pool heaters to help you choose the right heater for your pool.

    Gas pool heaters work by igniting natural gas or propane within a combustion chamber. As water passes through the gas pool heater, the heat from the chamber is transferred to the water, which is then released back into the pool. Gas pool heaters have been around for decades, and have improved drastically in their efficiency over the years. Gas pool heaters are the most popular type of heaters on the market. This is due to their ability to perform in various climates despite weather conditions. Gas pool heaters also tend to be the less costly to install. However, the cost of fuel to run a gas pool heater will add-up over the long run and the lifetime of a gas pool heater is generally shorter than other pool heaters (only 5 years). It is for these reasons that gas pool heaters are recommended for pools that are not used regularly, and when it's desirable to have the ability to heat a pool quickly over short periods of time.

    In heat pump pool heaters, heat is derived from the atmosphere. The pool heater uses a fan to pull hot air from outside. That air heats a liquid refrigerant that is heated further by a compressor. More efficient heat pump pool heaters use a scroll compressor, as opposed to a reciprocal compressor. As the temperature of the liquid refrigerant is increased it becomes a hot gas, which is used to heat water passing through the pool heater via a condenser. Since heat pump pool heaters rely on natural heat from the environment, they are most efficient in areas of warmer climate (at least above 50? F). Although heat pump pool heaters cost more initially, they can be more cost effective in the long run if you plan on using your pool frequently throughout the year. They also tend to have a longer lifespan than gas pool heaters (10 years or more).

    Solar pool heaters are quickly emerging as an excellent alternative to gas pool heaters and heat pump pool heaters. Advances in solar technology have made solar pool heaters much more affordable, and heating a pool through solar energy is a terrific application for this technology. It is even possible to heat your tap water using your solar pool heater, which can save even more money over time. Solar pool heaters work by taking water from the pool and passing it through a solar collector that is usually placed on the roof of your home. The solar collector gains heat from the sun and transfers that heat to the water as it passes through, before being released back into the pool. Although more expensive, these systems are relatively low maintenance and generally last longer than either gas pool heaters or heat pump pool heaters (10-20 years). Solar pool heaters can be used year around but may require a little more attention during freezing periods, since it is possible for water to freeze inside the lines if not drained properly. There are two basic types of solar pool heaters; unglazed and glazed. Glazed solar pool heaters use higher quality tubing with a tempered glass sheathing that protects the system during colder weather. Unglazed heaters are more susceptible to cold and not as efficient as their glazed counterpart, yet they are less expensive and if maintained properly can be very effective. Also, by installing a controller to the system, you can customize how and when your solar pool heater operates, and also program it to discharge water automatically when temperatures drop to freezing levels.

    When considering the installation of any pool heater, it is important to consult a professional. By working together with an experienced licensed professional, knowing the size of your pool and how you plan to use it, an efficient pool heater can be purchased to fit your budget.
LAND ART LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

SWIMMING POOL HEATERS
Licensed Landscape Architect / Florida License No. 0001760