Solar Pool Heater (80-200 sq ft panels)
Zero operating cost; roof/yard mounted; 1-7 year payback depending on rates; slower heating than gas; best combined with heat pump backup
Installed price$2,500–$4,500LA-area, parts and labor
Typical lifespan~15 yrswith regular care
Cost per year of life$167–$300price ÷ lifespan
Who usually installs it5% DIY · 95% pro
Most installs involve plumbing or electrical work. When wiring or gas lines are involved, call a licensed pro.
Common brandsHeliocolFafcoSunPumpThermal Energy International
Repair or replace?
A common rule: if a repair costs more than half the price of new, or the unit is in its last year or two of a ~15-year life, replacing is often the better value. Try the repair-or-replace calculator with your own quote. Ranges are LA-area estimates; see How We Estimate.
Models and variants
- Sunheater Solar Pool Heater Panel SystemSunheater · about $3200 · 5-yr warranty
- Fafco AcuTherm Solar HeaterFafco · about $3600 · 7-yr warranty
Related repairs
Maintenance that protects it
Costs and calculators
- Pool ownership costs by pool type
- Annual Gas Heater Operation (4 months use, 75K-200K BTU): $300–$800
- Annual Solar Heater Operation: $0–$0
- Heater Repair/Service (annual inspection, descaling): $100–$300
- Annual Maintenance Cost Calculator
- Pool Running Cost Calculator
- Equipment Lifespan Calculator