Heating a pool doesn’t have to drain your wallet. While gas and electric systems rack up running costs, solar harnesses the sun’s free energy to keep your pool warm — and your bills low.

Solar pool heating with Supreme Heating costs $0 per day to run and averages around $5,000 installed for a typical Australian backyard. It adds around 4 extra months of comfortable swimming each year and can even boost the appeal of your property when it’s time to sell.

Find out below why solar is the smart choice for Aussie pool owners, how much you can save, and how it stacks up against other heating options.

1) Why solar is the smart choice for Aussie pool owners

Gas and electric heaters quickly add up in running costs. Solar, by contrast, uses free energy from the sun:

• $0/day to run with Supreme Heating solar systems.
• Extends the swim season by up to 4 extra months.

Explore our Solar Pool Heating Systems.

2) What does solar pool heating cost to install?

For an average Australian backyard, a complete solar pool heating system from Supreme Heating costs around $5,000 installed, depending on:

• Pool size & surface area
• Roof type and orientation
• Choice of controller and automation

3) Payback period: when solar pays for itself

With zero daily operating cost, solar savings start from day one. For many families, the system pays itself off in around 5 years. After that, it’s essentially free heat for the rest of the system’s 15+ year lifespan.

Learn about our Solar Controllers.

4) What influences your savings?

Your solar return depends on:

• Sun exposure (north-facing roofs are ideal).
• Collector sizing (matched to pool size).
• Pool cover use (reduces heat loss by up to 75%).
• Climate (longer summers = faster payback).
• System efficiency (quality collectors = more heat per m²).

Save more with Supreme Heating’s Heatseeker Plus (Elliptical Tubing)

5) Where heat pumps fit in (without replacing solar)

While solar is the lowest-cost heating method, some pool owners want full control and longer seasons. That’s where heat pumps come in:

• They extend the season up to all year round.
• They run efficiently — especially when paired with rooftop PV.
• They work perfectly with solar, providing backup heating when the sun isn’t enough.

This way, solar handles 70–90% of heating at almost no cost, and a heat pump tops up only when needed.

“Installing a pool heater doesn’t just improve your lifestyle — it can also boost the appeal of your home. Prospective buyers often view a heated pool as a premium feature, adding to both the comfort and the marketability of the property. A pool that can be enjoyed for more months of the year becomes a stronger asset, helping your home stand out when it’s time to sell.”

6) FAQs

Q: How much does solar pool heating cost to run?
A: With Supreme Heating, solar pool heating costs $0 per day to operate (excluding circulation pump).

Q: How much extra swimming time does it add?
A: Most pools gain up to 4 extra months of comfortable swimming.

Q: Is solar better than a heat pump?
A: They’re different: solar = lowest cost, heat pump = longer season. Many owners choose both for the perfect balance.

Q: Do I need a pool cover?
A: A pool cover is highly recommended — it significantly reduces heat loss and helps you reach payback faster. However, if a cover isn’t practical for your pool, no stress. Supreme Heating can design a heating system tailored to your needs.

7) Conclusion & Next Steps

If you’re looking for the most cost-effective way to heat your pool, solar is unbeatable. With low running costs and years of free energy, it’s a smart financial and lifestyle choice. And if you’d like to swim all year round, pairing solar with a Supreme Heating heat pump gives you the best of both worlds.

Try Our Solar Pool Heating Calculator

Wondering how much warmer your pool could be with solar?
Our Solar Heating Calculator shows you the difference — comparing pool temperatures with and without solar heating for your location and pool size.

It’s a quick, easy way to see the benefits for yourself before you take the next step.

Try the Solar Heating Calculator

(Results are indicative only and may vary. For an accurate design and quote, speak with our expert team.)

Discover our solar range and get a free quote here.
Or call 1300 787 978 to speak with our team.