Installing a pool without a heater in the UK is not the best idea, especially when you think about how cold the water will be for the majority of the year! However, there are a number of heating options that you can consider, with some being more expensive than others. Many people want to know whether they can choose to have a domestic boiler with a swimming pool heat exchanger installation and so we’ve shared whether this is possible and what’s involved to help you make the right decision for your needs. Read on to find out more.
Can a Domestic Boiler Heat My Swimming Pool?
The simple answer to this question is yes! It is entirely possible to use your domestic boiler to heat your pool as long as you have a heat exchanger installed that works for pools. You can arrange for this modification to be made by any reputable pool expert as long as they are qualified to work with gas, electric or oil systems, depending on the type you have installed.
How Does a Heat Exchanger Work with a Domestic Boiler?
Once your heat exchanger has been installed, the water from the pool will travel through it as the boiler water works to heat it. The heated water is then pumped back into the pool and the boiler water cycles back through the boiler system to keep it hot.
To keep your pool at the ideal temperature, your heat exchanger will work continuously, drawing water in to heat it and returning it when it has been heated. You can switch your heat exchanger on or off depending on your swimming needs but it is important to remember that it will take some time to warm the entire pool, so prepare your water in advance for the best results.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Domestic Boiler?
As with all decisions, you will find that there are some clear advantages and disadvantages when it comes to using your domestic boiler to heat your pool. Here are the main ones:
Advantages
- You can look forward to lower bills as your boiler will have a high energy efficiency rating
- Your boiler will be able to handle the additional pressure, saving you the installation costs of a second system.
- Your heat exchanger and domestic boiler will not take up lots of room, giving you more space to enjoy around the pool area.
Disadvantages
- Your boiler will need to be on for longer when you want to heat the pool
- A domestic boiler has not been designed as a pool heating solution
- Your water won’t heat as quickly
What Other Options Are There?
If you are not sure about whether you should choose a domestic boiler with a heat exchanger, there are other pool heating options that you can go for. These include:
- Gas pool boiler
- Oil pool boiler
- Electric heating systems
- Air source heat pumps
- Solar panels
It is a good idea to check out all the available solutions before you make a decision, giving you the best chance of finding the right pool heating system for your needs.
If you want to find the right heater but are worried that you do not have the right information available to you then why not get in touch with Rowlen. We are pool experts and have years of experience in supporting clients to install, repair and maintain pool heaters. We’d be happy to offer impartial advice and if you live in London or the surrounding areas, we can even provide you with an installation quote.