Keeping your pool warm without driving up your power bill—now that’s the goal. Nobody wants a freezing cold dip, but traditional heating can cost a fortune if you’re not careful. So let’s talk about the best energy-efficient ways to heat your pool here in New Zealand.

Solar Pool Heating – Harnessing Free Energy

If you want to keep your pool warm without spending heaps on power, solar heating is the way to go. You’re using the sun’s energy, which costs nothing once you’ve got the system set up. Basically, water from your pool gets pumped through solar collectors (usually black panels) that soak up the sun’s heat, warming the water before it returns to the pool.

This works best if your pool gets plenty of sun during the day. If it’s mostly shaded, solar might not be your best bet. Also, keep in mind that solar heating is slower than other options—it’s great for keeping a pool warm over time, but it won’t give you instant hot water.

In NZ, you can check out Ecosolar or Madimack NZ, both of which offer some solid solar heating solutions.

Heat Pumps – Energy Efficient and Reliable

Heat pumps are one of the most popular options here. They work like an air conditioner in reverse—pulling heat from the air and transferring it to your pool water. The best part? They’re much more energy-efficient than traditional electric or gas heaters.

The key here is choosing the right size for your pool. If you get one that’s too small, it’ll run all the time and struggle to keep up. Too big, and you’re spending extra money for no reason.

Look for models with an inverter system (like the ones from Madimack or Spa and Pool Warehouse) because they adjust their power usage based on how much heat is needed—making them even more efficient.

Pool Covers – The Secret Weapon

This isn’t technically a “heating system,” but hear me out. A good pool cover can cut heat loss by up to 75%. Without one, all that warmth you’ve paid for just escapes overnight. Think of it like leaving your house windows open when the heater is on—it’s a waste.

A solar pool cover is especially useful because it helps trap heat from the sun and reduces evaporation. If you’re using a heat pump or solar heating, pairing it with a cover will make a huge difference in keeping your pool warm without cranking up the power bill.

You can find great options from Para Rubber or The Cover Company.

Gas Pool Heating – Not Great for Energy Efficiency

If you need to heat your pool quickly, gas heating works—especially for spas or smaller pools. But if energy efficiency is your goal, gas isn’t the best option. It’s fast, but it burns through fuel, which can get expensive. Plus, with gas prices climbing, it’s not the smartest long-term choice unless you only use it occasionally.

If you’re set on gas, check out Mastertemp or Raypak heaters for some of the better models available in NZ.

What’s the Best Option for You?

Here’s the deal:

• If you want the cheapest-to-run option – Go for solar heating, but only if you get enough sun.
• If you want year-round heating without a massive bill – A heat pump with an inverter system is your best bet.
• If you want fast heating for occasional use – Gas could work, but it’s pricey in the long run.
• If you want to make any heating system more efficient – Get a decent pool cover.

By the way, don’t forget to maintain whatever system you choose. A clogged-up heat pump or dirty solar panels won’t work as efficiently, costing you more in the long run.

Want professional advice? Check with local pool specialists like The Pool Place or Auckland Pool Services to get an expert opinion tailored to your setup.

Happy swimming!