Swimming Pool Heating Cost Calculator
Find out exactly what it costs to heat your pool — gas, electric, or heat pump.
Calculate Your Pool Heating Cost
Pool Heater Monthly Cost Comparison (US 2026)
| Heater Type | Small Pool | Medium Pool | Large Pool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas Heater | ~$145/mo | ~$290/mo | ~$435/mo |
| Electric Resistance | ~$235/mo | ~$470/mo | ~$705/mo |
| Heat Pump | ~$47/mo | ~$94/mo | ~$141/mo |
Gas $1.20/therm 82% eff. Electric $0.13/kWh. Heat pump COP 5.0. 8 hrs/day.
Which Pool Heater Is Cheapest to Run?
Heat pump pool heaters cost 3–5x less per month than gas or electric resistance heaters. They work best in climates where air temperature stays above 50°F — covering most of the southern and coastal US.
Gas heaters heat pools fastest and work in any climate, making them popular in northern US states. Electric resistance heaters have the lowest upfront cost but the highest monthly running cost.
The same efficiency principles apply to home heating. Our heat pump running cost calculator shows the monthly savings versus gas or electric resistance for your whole home. Use our free heating cost calculator to estimate your annual spend across all heating types.