1. What are the most important factors when choosing a pool heater?

First and foremost, a pool heater is a long-term investment. The most important factors to consider are:

• Initial price (including installation): Did you know that some fossil fuel heaters such as natural gas heaters, though the heater is lower priced than a heat pump, can cost $1000 to $2000 more to install than a heat pump?
• Operating costs: Did you know that fossil fuel heaters (natural gas, propane and oil fired) cost 4-5 times more to heat your pool than a heat pump? See our Heating Cost Comparison for details.
• Ease of operation and maintenance.
• Product life expectancy: Did you know that the life expectancy of a heat pump is twice that of a fossil fuel heater?
• Attractive, durable design: Does the heater compliment your pool/patio design?