Whether or not to get a swimming pool heater is an individual decision. However, in general, it is a good idea. Swimming pools have many uses. They are not just for summer fun. Many people like to use it for as much of the year as possible, for exercise, relaxation, or socialization. If you are one of these people, but you live in a climate where the weather can change at the drop of a hat, or you just plain do not like cool water, a heater is a great thing to have.

Once you decide to get a heater, the next decision is what type of heater to purchase. Deciding which pool heater system is best for you will depend on your specific needs, budget and the design of your pool and house.

Solar heaters will usually bring the temperature of a swimming pool up into the eighty degree range. When you have this type of heater, a spell of cold weather can drop the temperature of the pool. A few warm days will soon restore it, though. Solar pool covers are great for recreational pool users who don't necessarily need to swim in their pool every single day.

A heat pump heater will keep pools heated at a consistent temperature between eighty and ninety degrees. This type of heater is an absolute necessity for anyone who is a serious swimmer. If you are set in a daily, year-round swimming routine then this heater is the choice for you.

Athletes and people who do swimming therapy will benefit greatly from this heater, since eighty to ninety degrees are ideal temperatures for training. A heat pump heater is also a good option if your home is simply not capable of accommodating solar panels for solar heating.

Another type of heater that is available is a gas heater. Gas heaters are more expensive than the other heaters. They are generally great for heating a swimming pool quickly and efficiently when time is an issue. For instance, they are excellent for heating a pool for a party.

Heaters are also wonderful options for pools that are not used often, such as a pool located at someone's vacation home. Gas heaters are usually extremely large, so they can reach any temperature desired quickly and maintain it constantly, no matter what the weather is like.

If heating a swimming pool is a top priority for you then, in addition to a heater, you may want to invest in a solar pool cover. The solar cover will collect heat from the sun and transfer it to the water. This, in conjunction with your heater, will help to maintain the pool's temperature.

Considering all of your options should help you to determine if you need a swimming pool heater or not. If you decide that you do then this information should help you to easily determine which heater suits your needs and budget the best.