Pros & Cons of Installing a Pool Heater

The Pros and Cons of Installing a Pool Heater in North Texas: Is It Worth It for Your Pool?

As a North Texas pool owner, you’ve likely experienced the joys of cooling off in your backyard oasis during the blistering summer months. Don’t be fooled by the “False Fall” - temperatures begin to dip and your pool may not be touched until next season. One solution to this? A pool heater.

Take the case of a recent customer, Mark. Like many homeowners, he loved his pool during the sweltering heat of summer but found that it sat unused during the fall/winter months. His wife, however, wasn't just avoiding the pool because of the cool air—she runs cold year-round and experiences painful foot cramps in cold water, even during mild Texas winters. She loved swimming but needed the water to be warmer to stay comfortable. This led Mark to consider installing a pool heater, and he gave us a call to explore the options.

But is a pool heater right for you? As a pool repair and maintenance company with years of experience, we’ve seen the pros and cons of installing heaters in North Texas pools. Here’s what you should know before making your decision.

The Pros of a Pool Heater in North Texas

1. Extended Swimming Season

One of the biggest advantages of installing a pool heater is the ability to use your pool for more than just a few months. In North Texas, the weather cools off quickly after summer, but with a heater, you can enjoy your pool comfortably from early spring through late fall—and even on those cooler evenings when the air is chilly, but the water can stay perfectly warm.

2. Consistent Comfort

Much like Mark’s wife, many pool owners prefer warmer water, whether due to personal comfort, medical needs, or simply the pleasure of swimming in warm water. A heater ensures that the pool is always at the right temperature, eliminating the "shock" of dipping into cold water. This is especially important for those prone to muscle cramps or joint pain, as cold water can exacerbate these issues.

3. More Value from Your Pool

Think of it this way: you’ve already invested in a beautiful pool—why not maximize its use? By adding a heater, you get to enjoy it year-round, turning your pool from a seasonal luxury into a more practical and valuable part of your home. For families who love to entertain or relax by the water, a heated pool offers far more flexibility.

4. Increased Property Value

A heated pool is an attractive feature for potential homebuyers, especially in a region like North Texas where winters are mild enough to make a year-round pool feasible. A heater can increase your home’s marketability and provide a solid return on investment when it's time to sell.

The Cons of Installing a Pool Heater

1. Higher Operating Costs

Heaters can drive up energy bills, especially if you choose a gas or electric system. While solar heaters are more cost-effective in the long run, they may not always deliver the efficiency you need during cloudy days or cooler periods. Mark learned that while his wife enjoyed swimming in a warm pool, their energy bills increased significantly during colder months—something to keep in mind if you plan to heat the pool year-round.

2. Installation Costs

The upfront expense of installing a pool heater can be substantial. Depending on the size of your pool and the type of heater you choose, installation costs vary, but it’s a long-term investment. We always advise homeowners to weigh the initial costs against how often they plan to use the heater.

3. Maintenance and Wear

In North Texas, where weather conditions can change quickly, pool heaters require regular maintenance to stay efficient. The mix of rain, occasional freezes, and general wear and tear can lead to increased repair needs over time. Gas and electric heaters in particular may need more attention to maintain optimal performance in our unpredictable climate.

Is a Pool Heater Right for You?

The decision to install a pool heater depends on how much you plan to use your pool during the cooler months. If you, like Mark and his wife, love the idea of swimming year-round and find comfort in warm water, a heater is a great way to extend your pool’s usability. However, if you’re concerned about the costs or don't swim often outside of the summer, it might not be necessary.

One thing’s for sure—a pool heater can transform your backyard into a year-round retreat.

If you’re unsure which type of heater is best for your North Texas home or have questions about installation, give us a call. We’ve helped homeowners find the right solution for their pool, and we’d be happy to help you too

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