- 1). Research the difference between gas and electric swimming-pool heaters. Electric heaters pull heat from the air to heat the water. This technology can also be used to cool the water during extremely hot periods. It is expensive to use an electric heater year-round. Gas heaters do not require more cost to use year-round because they operate using natural gas or propane. However, you would have to buy those fuel sources continually.
- 2). Calculate what size swimming-pool heater you need. You measure heat capacity for all heaters in British Thermal Units per hour. Buy an appropriately sized heater to get more for your money. Determine the temperature rise by subtracting the average temperature during the coldest month you will use your pool from the temperature you want the water to be. Then, multiply the temperature rise by the surface area of your swimming pool. Multiply that number times 12 to get the BTUs per hour of your ideal swimming pool heater.
- 3). Check your local pool-supply stores for the type and size of swimming pool heater you want. Make a note of the models available and their prices.
- 4). Look online to see if you can find a better deal on the models you're considering. Manufacturers' websites, as well as third-party sites, often sell pool equipment, including swimming-pool heaters, cheaper than you can find in stores. This will help you get the best price for your heater.
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