Pool Heater Comparison: Natural Gas, Electric, and Heat Pumps — Which Is Best for Ontario Pools?

Making Sense of Your Heating Options

When it comes to pool comfort, few upgrades matter more than the right heater. In Ontario’s climate—where evenings are cool, summers are short, and spring and fall can be unpredictable—your pool heater choice affects how much you use your pool, how high your energy bills run, and how long your equipment lasts. Here’s a comparison of gas heaters, electric heaters, and energy efficient heat pumps, along with details on models we carry, so you can make the right choice for your pool.

Natural Gas Heaters

Natural Gas heaters are the most common choice for fast, powerful heating. They can raise water temperature quickly, regardless of air temperature, which makes them perfect for extending the pool season.

Key Features:

• BTU Range: 200,000–400,000 BTU, sized to fit residential pool volume and heating needs
• Fuel Type: Available in natural gas or propane
• Efficiency: Many modern models reach 82–84% efficiency, with “low-NOx” options for cleaner emissions
• Heat Exchangers: Copper or cupro-nickel, with cupro-nickel offering greater corrosion resistance (ideal for saltwater pools)
• Temperature Control: Digital thermostats with automation compatibility for pool control systems

Pros:

• Fastest heating option
• Reliable even in cold weather
• Great for extending the pool season

Cons:

• Higher ongoing fuel costs
• More ongoing repair parts required
• Less energy efficient than heat pumps
• Requires gas line or propane storage

For Ontario homeowners who want dependable heating in cold conditions or quick boosts in temperature, gas heaters are hard to beat.

Electric Heaters

Electric heaters are another option, and one brand we carry is the K-STAR Electric Pool Heater, available in 5 kW, 10 kW, and 15 kW models. These heaters pass water over a resistive element, similar to an electric kettle. They are compact, simple to maintain, and low-cost to install, making them ideal for spas and pools.

K-STAR Features:

• 240V single-phase operation
• Stainless Steel Incoloy-Sheathed elements for longer life (TITANIUM elements for longer life in salt water pools)
• Mechanical or digital temperature controls
• Maximum heating capacity of 40 °C (104 °F)
• Winterizing drain plug and impact-resistant tank

Pros:

• Easy to install and operate
• Compact and durable
• Lower upfront cost

Cons:

• Higher ongoing operating costs than natural gas and heat pumps
• Slower heating than gas
• Requires an electrical supply to be installed by a licensed electrician

For homeowners who want a straightforward, reliable solution for spas or pools, electric heaters like the K-STAR are a strong choice.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are valued for their energy efficiency. They capture heat from the ambient air and transfer it to pool water, which makes them very cost-effective in warmer weather. However, they lose efficiency as outdoor temperatures drop, which is an important consideration in Ontario’s spring and fall.

Key Features:

• COP (Coefficient of Performance): Typically 5.9 – 6 in warm weather (1 unit of energy in = 6 units of heat out.  The higher the COP, the better.  A higher rating indicates a more efficient heat pump.)
• Operating Range: Most work efficiently down to ~10 °C (50 °F)
• BTU Output: Generally 80,000–140,000 BTU, depending on pool size and model
• Heat Exchangers: Titanium, for long-lasting corrosion resistance in chlorinated and saltwater pools
• Noise Level: Many modern models run quietly, often below 60 dB
• Eco-Friendliness: No combustion, lower carbon footprint compared to gas

Pros:

• Most energy-efficient option compared to natural gas and electric heaters
• Simple installation
• Set and forget controls
• Titanium heat exchanger
• Lower operating costs than gas or electric
• Environmentally friendly
• Quiet operation
• Safe to operate
•  

Cons:

• Higher upfront installation cost (but ongoing operational costs are much lower compared to natural gas and electric heaters)
• You need a dedicated 240V electrical line to it
• Slower heating speed compared to natural gas
• Efficiency drops in cold air

Heat pumps are an excellent choice for steady, efficient heating during Ontario summers. Many homeowners choose to pair them with a gas heater for colder months.

Which Heater Is Best for Ontario Pools?

Gas heaters are best for those who want quick, reliable heating even in Ontario’s cold conditions. Electric heaters like the K-STAR are best for spas or small pools where compact design and simplicity matter. Heat pumps are best for homeowners who want to save on long-term ongoing operating costs during the warmer months. Some pool owners even choose a hybrid approach, combining a heat pump for everyday efficiency with a gas heater for rapid heating in cold snaps.

Why Choose Bremner for Pool Heaters in Ontario

Choosing the right heater helps you get the most from your pool and your budget, but deciding between gas, electric, and heat pumps can feel overwhelming. That’s where Bremner comes in. With years of experience serving Pickering, Durham Region, and the GTA, our team knows how Ontario’s climate affects pools and which systems perform best. Whether you need the fast heating power of gas, the compact reliability of an electric model like the K-STAR, or the long-term energy efficiency of a heat pump, Bremner will guide you through the options and install a system that fits your lifestyle.

Pool Heater FAQ

Q: What is the best type of pool heater for Ontario’s climate?

Gas heaters work best for quick heating in cold weather, heat pumps are most efficient in summer, and electric heaters like the K-STAR are ideal for spas or small pools. The best choice depends on how you use your pool.

Q: Are heat pumps effective for pools in Ontario?

Yes, but only in moderate to warm weather. Heat pumps are very efficient during summer but lose effectiveness when outdoor temperatures drop in early spring or late fall.

Q: Are electric pool heaters expensive to run?

Electric heaters are more costly to operate compared to natural gas and energy efficient heat pumps, as electricity is more expensive in Ontario than natural gas.  Upfront installation costs of an electric heater are lower, though, than a gas heater. 

Q: How long does a pool heater typically last?

With proper installation and maintenance, gas and electric pool heaters can last 5–10 years, while energy-efficient heat pumps can last 10-15 years. Choosing the right size and maintaining your system regularly will extend its lifespan.

Q: Does Bremner install pool heaters in Pickering and the GTA?

Yes. Bremner supplies and installs gas, electric, and heat pump pool heaters across Pickering, Durham Region, and the GTA, helping homeowners choose the best system for their needs.

Ready to Upgrade Your Pool Heater?

Contact Bremner today to learn more about gas, electric, and heat pump pool heaters, and let us help you choose the perfect heating system for your pool.