Gas vs Heat Pump Pool Heater: Which Is Best for Texas?

If you're shopping for a pool heater in Texas, you have two main choices: gas (natural gas or propane) or electric heat pump. The right answer depends on how you use your pool, but for most Arlington-area homeowners, a heat pump is the better long-term value.

Here's the honest comparison with real Texas numbers.

At a Glance

How They Work

Gas Heaters

Burn natural gas or propane in a combustion chamber to heat water as it circulates through. They output 250,000-400,000 BTU/hr and can raise pool temperature by several degrees in an hour. Great for heating on demand — fire it up when you want to swim, and the pool is warm in a few hours.

Heat Pumps

Don't generate heat — they move it. A heat pump captures warmth from the air and transfers it to your pool water using a refrigeration cycle. They output 50,000-140,000 BTU/hr and are 400-600% efficient (for every 1 unit of electricity, they deliver 4-6 units of heat). They heat slowly but run cheaply.

Operating Cost Comparison (Texas)

This is where the difference is dramatic:

When Gas Makes Sense

Gas heaters aren't all bad. They're the right choice if:

• You heat occasionally. If you only use the heater a few weekends a year, gas is cheaper because you pay nothing when it's off. A heat pump costs the same whether you use it or not (it just sits there).
• You have a spa. Spas need rapid heating to 100°F+. Gas can do that in 30-60 minutes. A heat pump would take hours.
• You want to swim in winter. Gas works in any temperature. Heat pumps struggle below 50°F.
• You already have natural gas plumbed to the equipment pad. No extra infrastructure cost.

When a Heat Pump Makes Sense

• You swim regularly spring through fall. This is most Texas pool owners. A heat pump maintains 80-85°F for a fraction of the cost of gas.
• You want to save money long-term. The $900-1,500/year in fuel savings adds up fast.
• You care about noise. Heat pumps are quieter than gas burners.
• You want the longest-lasting option. Heat pumps last 10-20 years vs 5-10 for gas.

The Hybrid Approach

Many Texas pool owners use both: a heat pump for daily heating during the season, and a gas heater for the attached spa or for those few cold weekends in January. It costs more upfront but gives you the best of both worlds.

Texas Climate Advantage

Texas is ideal for heat pumps. Our pool season runs March through October, and even our "cold" months rarely stay below 50°F for long. A heat pump in Arlington will work efficiently for 8-10 months of the year. The 2-3 months where it struggles (December-February) are also the months most people aren't swimming anyway.

Our Recommendation

For most Arlington pool owners: go with a heat pump. The operating cost savings are too large to ignore, and Texas weather is perfect for them. You'll save $900-1,500/year and the equipment will last longer.

If you have a spa or want winter swimming: Get a gas heater, or do a hybrid setup with both.

If you're on a tight budget and only heat occasionally: Gas is cheaper upfront and you only pay when you use it.

Need Help Choosing?

We install both types and we'll give you an honest recommendation based on your pool, your usage, and your budget. No upsell — just the right equipment for your situation. We specialize in pool heater installation for both gas and heat pump systems.

Call 682-399-2593 or get a free quote online.

Project 36 Services — Family-owned pool service in Arlington, TX since 2005. Call 682-399-2593 for a free estimate.