The Heat Pump vs Gas Pool Heater Calculator is a valuable tool designed to assist pool owners in making informed decisions about their pool heating systems. By comparing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of heat pumps and gas heaters, this calculator helps users determine which option best suits their needs.
Formula of Heat Pump vs Gas Pool Heater Calculator
Heat Pump:
Heater Sizing:
- Pool Volume (gallons): Multiply length (ft) x width (ft) x depth (ft).
- Desired Temperature Rise: Subtract average coldest month temperature from desired pool temperature (°F).
- Surface Area (square feet): Multiply length (ft) x width (ft).
- Formula: Btu/hour = (Pool Volume x 8.34 lbs/gallon) x Desired Temperature Rise / Heating Time (hours) x Pool Surface Area x Heat Loss Factor (around 1.25 for uncovered pools).
Running Cost:
- Electricity Cost (per kWh): Check your electricity bill.
- Heat Pump Efficiency (COP): Look up your specific model’s Coefficient of Performance.
- Formula: Estimated Cost = (Pool Volume x Desired Temperature Rise x Daily Runtime) / (Heat Pump Efficiency x 3412 Btu/kWh) x Electricity Cost
Gas Heater:
Heater Sizing:
- Similar to heat pump sizing, but formulas and factors may differ based on specific models and manufacturers. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or use online calculators provided by pool equipment companies.
Running Cost:
- Gas Cost (per therm): Check your gas bill.
- Gas Heater Efficiency: Look up your specific model’s efficiency rating (usually expressed as a percentage).
- Formula: Estimated Cost = (Pool Volume x Desired Temperature Rise) / (Gas Heater Efficiency x 100) x Gas Cost
Table of General Terms
| Term | Definition | Units |
|---|---|---|
| BTU (British thermal unit) | Unit of heat energy required to raise the temperature of 1 pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit. | Btu |
| COP (Coefficient of Performance) | Ratio of heat output to electrical input for a heat pump. A higher COP indicates better efficiency. | |
| Therm | Unit of natural gas equivalent to 100,000 BTUs. | Therms |
| Pool Volume | Total amount of water your pool can hold. | Gallons |
| Desired Temperature Rise | The difference between your desired pool temperature and the average coldest month temperature. | Degrees Fahrenheit (°F) |
| Surface Area | The surface area of your pool. | Square feet (sq ft) |
| Heating Time | The number of hours per day you plan to operate the heater. | Hours |
| Heat Loss Factor | A factor accounting for heat loss from the pool surface due to evaporation and other factors. | |
| Electricity Cost | The cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour (kWh) from your electricity provider. | $/kWh |
| Gas Cost | The cost of natural gas per therm from your gas provider. | $/therm |
| Gas Heater Efficiency | The percentage of heat energy delivered to the pool water by the gas heater. | % |
Note: This table provides general information, and specific values may vary depending on your location and equipment specifications.
Example of Heat Pump vs Gas Pool Heater Calculator
Let’s say you have an average-sized pool with a volume of 20,000 gallons and you want to raise the temperature by 10°F. By inputting this data into the calculator, you can compare the estimated heating costs for both a heat pump and a gas heater, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific circumstances.
Most Common FAQs
The cost-effectiveness depends on factors such as local energy prices, climate, and pool usage. Generally, heat pumps are more energy-efficient but have higher upfront costs, while gas heaters have lower upfront costs but higher operating costs.
Heater size depends on factors such as pool volume, desired temperature rise, and surface area. Use the provided formulas or consult with a pool professional to ensure proper sizing for your specific pool.
Yes, heat pumps produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to gas heaters since they rely on electricity, which can be generated from renewable sources. However, the manufacturing process and disposal of heat pumps also have environmental impacts to consider.