What Temperature To Heat Pool in Winter

Much like the preferences of your water temperature when taking a shower, deciding on the appropriate pool temperature during the winter is going to be completely up to your budget and personal preference.

While opinions may vary, we’ve taken the time to include some factors to keep in mind that will help you determine what temperature to heat your pool water to in the cold months that come with the season of winter.

What’s the perfect pool temperature for winter?         

While most of the time heating your pool is a matter of personal preference, factors such as what state you live in, as well as what you intend to use the pool for can truly impact your choice in your pool’s water temperatures.

As a company that is based out of Florida, we get a generous ten months out of the year to enjoy the bright and sunny pool weather before the cold fronts begin to roll in. While mild winters may be our strong suit as pool owners, the same can’t be said for those living in cooler climates. For homeowners who regularly see temperatures drop below 45, it is critical to keep your swimming pool above freezing. Failure to keep the water temperature warm enough can result in costly fixes from broken pipes when they inevitably freeze over. 

Otherwise, for those looking to swim instead of creating a seasonal cold plunge in their backyard, it’s recommended to keep your pool around 76 to 78 degrees fahrenheit.

How much does it cost to keep your pool heated in winter?

Another factor homeowners tend to keep high on their list is the cost associated with the heating of their pool. Cost obviously fluctuates based on the type of pool heating system installed, as well as the size of the pool and the amount of water needing to be heated.

Overall, it can cost anywhere from around $100 to $400 dollars a month to heat your pool depending on the size of the pool, and season in which the pool is being heated in. While these numbers may seem quite high, it has been proven that costs associated with heating are significantly reduced when a layer of insulation – such as a pool cover – is equipped during colder months. Pool covers prevent heat from dissipating as quickly, resulting in a significant reduction in heating costs.

Ways to save money on pool heating

Not ready to spend a few hundred dollars on pool heating alone? That’s totally understandable. If you find yourself trying to cut down on heating prices, consider the following options: 

1. Invest in quality insulation. While plain pool covers help keep your pool’s water temperature more stable, there are other alternatives for insulation. Winter pool covers are a good place to start, but the biggest asset to have during cold winters is the addition of pool foam insulation.
2. Use a solar heater. Solar powered pool heaters get the majority of their heat and power from the sun, leaving your electric bill off the hook for powering the pump.
3. Use a pump optimized for your pool. There are a number of pumps, each with their own benefits. Be sure to have the best type of pump to save you money while also being effective.
4. Hire a pool technician to ensure everything is optimized. Faulty equipment can result in extra unexpected costs.

Ways to keep your pool effectively heated

How much do you know about your pool’s heating system? Different systems provide their own unique advantages that can help you maintain your desired pool temperature. 

Electric pool heater

Electric pool heaters function through the use of heated coils. Cold water is passed through the heated coils, raising the temperature of your pool water. Compared to other methods, electric pool heaters are proven to be reliable and efficient.

Gas pool heater

Similar to a home water heater, gas heaters use propane or other natural gasses to increase the water temperature. This method is quick and effective in getting the job done, but is definitely the most expensive way to heat your pool. Gas heaters are best when you only need to heat your pool for a few hours at a time.

Solar panel pool heating

Solar panel pool heating is a simple, cost effective concept: The sun powers a heat pump that runs the cool water through pipes exposed to the sun’s heat. As long as it’s sunny out, your pool can retain a mildly warm temperature for little to no additional cost. Of course, the downside occurs when several cloudy or rainy days happen. 

Aside from installation costs, solar panel heating is the cheapest option, long-term.

Rely on GPS Pools to maintain your pool heater or install a new one this winter!

Don’t leave your pool water to the whims of mother nature. Take charge of your pool systems and enjoy your backyard oasis, year-round. GPS Pools has the expertise and equipment that you need to maintain your pool!