Pool Heater vs. Heat Pump: Which Is Best for Nevada Pools?

Why do Nevada pool owners often ask whether a heater or heat pump is better?

If you live in Nevada, you know that our desert weather can be unpredictable. One week it feels like summer, and the next, you’re waking up to chilly mornings that make your pool feel like an ice bath. That’s when many homeowners start asking: “Should I get a pool heater or a heat pump?”

It’s a great question — and one we hear almost every day at Pool Supply Depot. The answer depends on how you use your pool. Do you want quick heat for the occasional swim, or steady warmth all season long? Do you care more about speed or efficiency?

Let’s break down what you need to know before investing in one of these systems — and which option will give you the best results in Nevada’s unique desert climate.

How does a gas pool heater work — and when is it the better choice?

A gas pool heater (either natural gas or propane) burns fuel to heat water as it circulates through the system. It’s fast, reliable, and can raise your pool’s temperature by several degrees in just a few hours — even when it’s cold outside.

This makes gas heaters ideal for homeowners who:

• Swim occasionally or on weekends.

• Have a spa that needs quick heating.

• Want to use their pool during cooler months.

The trade-off is operating cost. Fuel prices can fluctuate, and gas systems tend to use more energy over time. But in terms of instant comfort, nothing beats the responsiveness of a gas heater.

At Pool Supply Depot, many of our Nevada customers choose gas heaters because they want control — not a waiting game — when they decide it’s swim time.

How does a pool heat pump work — and when does it outperform a gas heater?

A pool heat pump works like a reverse air conditioner. Instead of creating heat, it extracts warmth from the surrounding air and transfers it into your pool water.

This process makes it extremely energy-efficient — especially during Nevada’s long, sunny days when outdoor air stays warm most of the year. Heat pumps cost more upfront but can cut monthly heating bills by as much as 50–70%.

They’re best for homeowners who:

• Swim regularly throughout the season.

• Want consistent water temperature.

• Value energy savings over quick heat.

The only limitation? When nighttime temps drop below 50°F, heat pumps lose efficiency and take longer to recover heat.

So if you’re a frequent swimmer who loves long pool seasons, a heat pump can be your best friend — as long as you give it the warm days it needs to perform its magic.

What are the main differences in cost, efficiency, and maintenance?

Let’s put the two side by side:

Over time, the costs often balance out. Gas heaters may be cheaper to install, but heat pumps save money on energy bills.

At Pool Supply Depot, we help customers calculate their true cost of ownership — factoring in local energy rates, usage frequency, and pool size. In most cases, homeowners see the break-even point for a heat pump in about 2–4 years.

How does Nevada’s desert climate affect heaters and heat pumps differently?

Nevada’s desert weather can be both a blessing and a challenge for pool heating systems. Warm days and cool nights create wide temperature swings that affect how each system performs.

• Gas Heaters: Unaffected by air temperature, making them great for year-round or nighttime use.

• Heat Pumps: Thrive in the daytime warmth but struggle during cold nights or windy weather.

Many Nevada homeowners find the best solution is a hybrid setup: a heat pump for efficient daily heating and a gas heater as backup for colder months or spa use.

If you live in areas like Henderson, Pahrump, or Las Vegas, where nights can drop fast, this dual system can give you the best of both worlds — comfort and control.

What do homeowners regret most after choosing the wrong system?

Most regrets come down to misunderstanding how these systems actually work.

Homeowners who buy a gas heater sometimes regret the higher fuel bills when they realize how much they love using the pool. On the flip side, heat pump owners often wish their water would heat faster on cold mornings.

At Pool Supply Depot, we’ve seen both situations. The happiest pool owners are the ones who choose a system that matches their habits, not just their budget.

If you only swim occasionally, a gas heater makes more sense. But if your pool is your second living room from April through October, the efficiency of a heat pump pays off quickly.

Can I use both a heat pump and a gas heater together?

Yes — and it’s more common than you’d think.

A hybrid system gives you flexibility: use the heat pump for daily efficiency and switch to gas when you want quick heating for your spa or a cool-weather swim.

It’s like having an economy car for everyday use and a sports car when you want performance.

Our Pool Supply Depot experts can help design a dual system that integrates both — ensuring your pool stays comfortable no matter what Nevada’s weather throws your way.

What’s the best choice for Nevada pools overall?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on how you use your pool and what matters most to you.

• Choose a Gas Heater if you want fast, on-demand heat or use your pool occasionally.

• Choose a Heat Pump if you want steady, affordable warmth and swim frequently.

• Consider a Hybrid System if you want year-round flexibility and optimal efficiency.

At Pool Supply Depot, we’re here to guide you through both options — not push one over the other. Our team can walk you through the real operating costs, compare models, and help you choose the system that fits your pool, your lifestyle, and your budget.

If you’re ready to explore your heating options, stop by our Nevada showroom or reach out for a quick consultation. We’ll help you find the perfect balance between comfort, cost, and convenience.