If you’ve ever wanted to take a swim on a cool morning or stretch pool season into the fall, a propane pool heater might be your perfect solution. But how fast does it actually work? The short answer: fast. Propane pool heaters are known for delivering quick, consistent heat—especially when compared to electric or solar options. At Levco, we’ve helped countless homeowners enjoy longer swim seasons thanks to the power and efficiency of propane.
Let’s take a closer look at how quickly a propane heater can warm your pool and what affects the timing.
Propane = Powerful, Fast Heating
Propane pool heaters typically raise water temperature by 1 to 2 degrees per hour, depending on the size of your pool and the BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating of your heater. For a standard 400,000 BTU propane heater, it could take around 8–12 hours to heat a typical 20,000-gallon pool by 10 degrees. That’s significantly faster than electric heat pumps, which depend on air temperature and take much longer to bring water up to your ideal swimming temp.
Propane is ideal when you want warmth now—not in a few days.
Factors That Impact Heating Time
While propane heaters are quick, several variables affect just how fast they’ll warm up your pool:
Pool Size – Larger pools take longer to heat. Smaller plunge or backyard pools can heat up much faster—often within a few hours.
Heater Size/BTU Output – The higher the BTUs, the quicker your pool heats. A well-sized heater makes all the difference.
Outside Temperature – Cooler air means more heat loss, requiring the heater to work harder (but propane can handle it).
Use of a Pool Cover – Using a cover while heating traps warmth, reduces heat loss, and speeds up the process.
Starting Temperature – Obviously, warming a chilly 65°F pool to 85°F will take longer than going from 75°F to 85°F.
At Levco, we can help you choose the right propane pool heater to match your pool size, usage, and comfort goals.
Why Choose Propane for Pool Heating?
Propane pool heaters offer the fastest heat-up time of any pool heating method. They’re also:
Reliable in all climates – No dependency on sunlight or warm outdoor air
Efficient and consistent – Delivers steady warmth without fluctuation
Ideal for quick weekend use – Turn it on Friday night, swim Saturday morning
If you want a pool that’s ready when you are, propane is the way to go.
Ready to Enjoy Your Pool More Often?
Whether you’re adding a propane pool heater for the first time or upgrading your existing system, Levco is here to help. We deliver the propane, install the equipment, and ensure everything runs smoothly. Give us a call at (203) 533-8249 to talk to a member of our team today—and get back to enjoying your pool sooner.