True Cost Guide Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs & Saunas Install a Swimming Pool Heater

How Much Does Pool Heater Installation Cost in 2025?

Typical Range:

$1,788 - $4,158

Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 956 HomeAdvisor members. Embed this data

How We Get This Data

Homeowners use HomeAdvisor to find pros for home projects.

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When their projects are done, they fill out a short cost survey.

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We compile the data and report costs back to you.

Updated December 21, 2024

Written by HomeAdvisor.

Highlights

Most homeowners pay about $2,970 for pool heater installation.
Pool heater installation can range from $1,788 and $4,158 depending on type and BTUs.
Solar pool heaters have the highest upfront costs at $9,000 but offer long-term savings.
Gas pool heaters are affordable to install, but utility hookups, permits, and other factors may drive costs higher.

Pool heater installation costs around $2,970. Depending on the type of heater, your climate, and the size of your pool, expect to pay anywhere between $1,788 and $4,158. Large pools, utility hookups, and add-ons typically account for higher installation costs.

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National Average	$2,970
Typical Range	$1,788 - $4,158
Low End - High End	$300 - $5,700

Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 956 HomeAdvisor members.

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Pool Heater Installation Cost Factors

Installing a pool heater involves several key factors, such as the size and volume of your pool, the type of heater, your local climate, and utility hookups.

Pool Size

Large pools require more powerful heating units, which translates to higher upfront costs for both the heater and its installation. Pool heater capacity is defined by British Thermal Units (BTUs), with higher numbers indicating more powerful heating.

In general, about 50,000 BTUs can efficiently heat 5,000 to 10,000 gallons of water. Pools in colder climates may require more powerful heaters. It’s important to choose an appropriately sized unit—installing an undersized heater leads to inefficient and slow heating and strain on the heater as it struggles to keep up with the pool’s heating load. An overly large heater may consume more fuel or energy than necessary.

Pool Volume (Gallons)	Heater Size (BTUs)	Average Cost Range
5,000–10,000	40,600–60,000	$1,000–$2,500
10,000–15,000	60,000–90,000	$1,500–$3,500
15,000–20,000	80,000–120,000	$2,000–$3,500
20,000–25,000	100,000–150,000	$2,500–$4,000
25,000–40,000	120,000–180,000	$3,000–$5,500
40,000–60,000	150,000–250,000	$4,500–$7,000

Utility Hookups

Installing utility lines ranges from $350 to $2,100, depending on the type. If you’re installing a pool heater for the first time, you may need to run utility lines between the heater and your home’s energy source. Potential costs include:

Gas line installation: $350–$800
Electrical wiring: $500–$2,100
Plumbing: $350–$1,900

Some areas may have limited access to certain utilities, which can increase the cost of heater installation. For example, natural gas is widely available in population-dense areas, but rural areas may not have gas lines installed on developed lots.

Climate

The right size and type of heater depends on the local climate and temperature. For instance, in warm and sunny climates, solar pool heaters are a cost-effective option because they rely on sunlight. Heat pumps are most efficient in most climates but perform best in mild conditions.

Gas and propane heaters usually offer the best heating performance in colder climates or winter conditions. Unlike heat pumps, which use ambient temperature to extract and transfer heat, gas and propane heaters use combustion to generate heat and warm the water directly.

Labor

Hiring a local pool heater installer represents 15% to 30% of total costs or $500 to $1,000 for a standard job. Gas and propane heaters are sometimes more complex and labor-intensive to install, while heat pumps and electric heaters may be more straightforward. If you’re replacing an existing heater, expect an extra $25 to $50 in your quote for removal and disposal.

Specialized contractors typically install pool heaters, but gas line installation, electrical circuit installation, extensive plumbing, or other complex tasks may require hiring or subcontracting additional professionals. For example, most qualified electricians cost $50 to $100 per hour, whereas plumbers charge $45 to $200 per hour.

Permits

Installing a pool heater may require certain permits, especially for significant modifications to plumbing, electrical, or gas systems. Permit requirements and fees vary depending on the location and the installation specifics but generally range from $100 to $500.

Add-On Costs

Several add-ons can enhance your pool heater’s efficiency and performance. Although they add to your upfront expenses, these extra features may translate to long-term cost savings. Consider these add-ons:

Pool cover: Ranging from $650–$2,350, pool covers minimize heat loss and reduce heating costs by up to 90%.
Solar blankets: Similar to pool covers, solar blankets help retain pool heat but with solar energy. They cost between $50–$500.
Pool enclosure: At $5,300–$15,600, mesh or glass pool enclosures are a major upgrade but can trap heat in your pool.

Operating Costs

Fuel and electricity costs vary depending on the type of heater, local utility rates, pool type, and heater usage. For example, electric heaters may have lower operating costs than gas or propane in many areas. However, they provide fewer cost advantages in California, where electricity rates are higher than most, or in extremely cold climates. Consider other ongoing costs, such as pool heater repair and maintenance.

Type of Heater	Cost to Run per Month	Cost to Run per Year
Propane	$200–$850	$2,400–$10,200
Gas	$200–$400	$2,400–$4,800
Electric resistance	$175–$600	$2,100–$7,200
Heat Pump	$120–$200	$1,450–$2,400
Solar	$0-$10	$0-$120

Pool Heater Installation Cost by Type

The type of pool heater has the biggest influence on total installation costs. Pool heater types have varying installation complexity and potential extra expenses, such as gas line installation, that determine the total cost.

Type of Heater	Average Cost Range
Natural gas/propane	$1,500–$6,000
Electric resistance	$1,000–$6,000
Solar	$2,500–$9,500
Heat pump	$2,500–$7,500

Propane and Gas

Propane or gas pool heater installation costs between $1,500 to $6,000, including materials and labor. Higher costs usually reflect installing gas lines for jobs without existing systems. For areas without access to natural gas, factor in the cost of propane tanks and ongoing refills.

Propane and gas pool heaters may have higher upfront costs from additional infrastructure, but they provide the fastest heating. They’re more reliable in cold temperatures compared to other heater types.

Electric Resistance Heaters

Electric resistance heaters cost around $1,000 to $6,000. Electric heaters are generally easier and faster to install compared to gas systems, although some homes may require rewiring or other electrical upgrades to accommodate the heater. They’re low maintenance but may be less reliable or effective in cold climates.

Solar

Solar pool heaters cost between $2,500 and $9,000. The upfront costs of solar panels, system components, and specialized labor can be relatively high, but solar pool heaters may offer significant long-term savings.

Relying entirely on the sun for energy, solar pool heaters have minimal operating costs once installed. Modern solar panels perform best in sunny areas but can still convert and store energy in cloudy conditions, although with suboptimal efficiency. High-quality systems can last 20 to 30 years or more with proper maintenance.

Heat Pump

Pool heat pumps cost around $2,500 to $7,500. Heat pumps extract heat from the air to warm the water. This process consumes less electricity than electrical resistance heating and is usually more cost-effective than gas heating, offsetting the higher upfront heat pump installation cost. Heat pumps may require a dedicated electrical circuit, increasing total costs.

Budgeting for Pool Heater Installation

Pool heater installation can be expensive, but the right planning can streamline costs. Try these budgeting tips:

Shop around and get quotes from multiple contractors. Compare labor rates, material costs, and other fees.
Choose the right heater for your pool based on size, usage, and climate.
Look for seasonal promotions or discounts from contractors during off-peak months.
Select a pool heater with a comprehensive warranty in case of later repairs.
Inquire about discounts for bundling services, such as pool heater installation and pumps, filters, lighting, or other upgrades.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.

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FAQs

Can I add a pool heater to an existing pool?

Yes, you can add a pool heater to an existing pool. Many homeowners install a pool heater during pool remodels to enhance their overall pool experience. Heaters offer various advantages, such as consistent and precise temperature, property value boosts, and more opportunities to enjoy swimming regardless of weather conditions.

Does a pool heater need to run at all times?

No, a pool heater doesn’t need to run all the time—instead, most homeowners use the heater to raise and maintain the temperature as needed during use. Pool heaters require between 24 and 72 hours to fully heat a pool, so you should prepare and run it well ahead of time. If you plan to use it frequently, use a pool cover to retain heat and reduce energy consumption.

Can a pool heater freeze?

Pool heaters can freeze if left exposed to extreme conditions. Freezing can damage internal heater components, potentially leading to costly repairs. Cycling water, covering the heater, and regular maintenance servicing help prevent freezing. Sealing or winterizing your heater also protects it during the season—this involves draining water from the heater and its components.

How long does a pool heater last?

Pool heater lifespans vary depending on the type of heater and maintenance, but they can last between seven and 30 years. Gas and propane furnaces have the shortest lifespans, about seven to 12 years, while electric and solar pool heaters can last up to 30 years.