Choosing the best setup for comfort, cost, and year-round enjoyment.
If you’re building or upgrading a backyard pool, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is whether to install a heater. Heated and unheated pools both have their advantages depending on your lifestyle, budget, and how you plan to use your pool. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide what’s right for your Arizona backyard.
Benefits of a Heated Pool
1. Extended Swim Season
A heated pool allows you to swim earlier in the spring and later into the fall—even in Arizona. While summer temperatures keep water warm naturally, cooler mornings and nights in spring and fall can quickly chill an unheated pool. A heater keeps the water consistently comfortable so you can enjoy it almost year-round.
2. Comfort & Convenience
Nothing beats sliding into a warm pool in the evening or early morning. Heated water is easier on the body, especially for young children, seniors, and anyone using the pool for hydrotherapy or relaxation. For spa users or families with different temperature preferences, a heater makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
3. Increased Home Value
A heated pool is often seen as a premium feature that adds value to your home. It’s especially appealing to buyers looking for a pool they can use beyond just the hottest summer months.
Benefits of an Unheated Pool
1. Lower Installation and Operating Costs
Unheated pools are less expensive to install and cost nothing to operate beyond standard maintenance and circulation. You won’t have to worry about energy bills or heater repairs, which can add up over time.
2. Naturally Warm Summers
In Arizona, summer heat often keeps your pool at a swim-ready temperature without any additional help. If you mainly use your pool during the peak summer months, you may not need a heater at all.
3. Eco-Friendly Option
By skipping the heater, you’re saving energy and reducing your environmental footprint. If sustainability is a top concern, an unheated pool is the greener choice—especially if you’re not planning on year-round use.
Things to Consider Before Deciding
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How Often Will You Swim?
If you want to use your pool regularly outside of summer, a heater is worth the investment. -
Do You Have Children or Elderly Users?
Heated pools are more comfortable for sensitive swimmers who may find cold water uncomfortable or even unsafe. -
What’s Your Budget?
Heaters (gas, electric, or solar) can cost between $2,000–$6,000+ installed, plus monthly operating costs. Solar heaters have a higher upfront cost but lower operating expenses. -
How Important Is Flexibility?
Heated pools give you more control over when and how you use your pool, making it a better long-term value for many families.
Final Thoughts
A heated pool adds comfort, flexibility, and longer swim time, while an unheated pool is more budget-friendly and easier to maintain. The right choice depends on your goals, usage habits, and budget. At AZ Family Pools, we’ll help you weigh the options and design a pool that perfectly fits your needs—whether you’re soaking up the sun or soaking in the spa.