Natural gas pool heaters for inground pools efficiently heat water, providing a comfortable swimming temperature year-round with quick heating capabilities.
Natural gas pool heaters offer fast, reliable heating for inground pools, making them ideal for extending your swimming season. With BTU outputs ranging from 75,000 to 450,000, these heaters can maintain any desired water temperature regardless of weather conditions.
Top Natural Gas Pool Heater Models
Leading manufacturers like Raypak, Hayward, and Pentair produce high-efficiency natural gas heaters specifically designed for inground pools:
| Model | BTU Output | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Raypak AVIA P-R264A-EN-C | 266,000 BTU | Digital controls, cupro-nickel heat exchanger |
| Hayward Universal H-Series | 250,000 BTU | Low NOx emissions, durable construction |
| Pentair MasterTemp | 400,000 BTU | Compact design, excellent heat transfer |
How Natural Gas Pool Heaters Work
These heaters operate by burning natural gas in a combustion chamber. As pool water circulates through the system, it passes through a heat exchanger where thermal energy transfers from the burning gas to the water. The heated water then returns to your pool.
For proper installation, consider our guide on built-in gas heaters to ensure optimal performance.
Key Benefits of Natural Gas Pool Heaters
Rapid Heating
Gas heaters can raise pool temperatures 1-2°F per hour, significantly faster than heat pumps or solar systems.
Consistent Performance
Unlike solar heaters that depend on sunlight, gas heaters maintain temperature regardless of weather conditions.
High Efficiency Options
Modern units achieve 89-95% efficiency, with some models featuring advanced heat exchangers like the Hayward H250 heat exchanger.
Sizing Your Natural Gas Pool Heater
Proper sizing is crucial for efficiency and performance. Follow these steps:
- Determine your pool’s surface area (length × width)
- Calculate desired temperature rise (target temp – average air temp)
- Multiply surface area by 12 (for 1°F/hour rise) or 24 (for 2°F/hour rise)
Example: A 20′ × 40′ pool (800 sq ft) needing a 20°F temperature rise would require approximately 320,000 BTU (800 × 20 × 2).
Installation Considerations
Location
Install heaters at least 5 feet from pool edges and in well-ventilated areas. Ensure proper clearance for maintenance access.
Gas Line Requirements
Most units need 3/4″ to 1″ gas supply lines. Consult local codes for proper sizing and materials.
Venting
Proper venting is essential for safety and efficiency. Follow manufacturer specifications for vent pipe materials and routing.
Maintenance Tips
- Annual professional inspection of burner and heat exchanger
- Regularly clean filters to maintain water flow
- Check for scale buildup in heat exchangers
- Inspect gas connections for leaks
For troubleshooting ignition issues, see our guide on pool heater igniters.
Cost Comparison
Operating costs vary by region and gas prices. According to U.S. Department of Energy data:
| Pool Size | Annual Heating Cost* |
|---|---|
| Small (12′ × 24′) | $500-$800 |
| Medium (16′ × 32′) | $800-$1,200 |
| Large (20′ × 40′) | $1,200-$2,000 |
*Based on 80% efficient heater at $1.09/therm, 6-month season
Environmental Considerations
Modern low-NOx models reduce emissions significantly. The EPA recommends these for areas with air quality concerns. Some states mandate low-NOx units for all new installations.
Alternative Heating Options
While natural gas heaters excel in performance, consider these alternatives:
- Heat pumps: More efficient but slower heating
- Solar heaters: Lowest operating cost but weather-dependent
- Hybrid systems: Combine gas with solar for balanced performance
