Heated pools are artificial water facilities designed for bathing, with the added feature of maintaining a comfortable and constant water temperature between 25º C and 27º C, allowing them to be used all year round. While heated outdoor pools do exist, they are less common due to the higher costs associated with their maintenance. Their construction can be an excellent option for those looking to enjoy bathing at any time of the year.
The cost of building a heated pool varies depending on factors such as the size of the pool, the materials used, the type of heating and whether you opt for an indoor or outdoor pool. In this article, we will detail how much it costs to build a heated pool, the technical aspects you should take into account and the different types of covers and heating systems available.
Advantages and disadvantages of a heated pool
Heated pools offer many benefits, but they also come with some drawbacks. Here we look at both aspects so you can make an informed decision.
Advantages
- Year-round use: Unlike conventional outdoor pools, a heated pool allows swimming in any season of the year, regardless of the weather. This is ideal for homes with children or elderly people who want to enjoy the pool without seasonal restrictions.
- Privacy and comfort: By having a cover, these pools facilitate maintenance, limiting the entry of dirt and allowing the water to maintain its temperature for longer. In addition, they offer a private environment compared to public or community pools.
- Value added: Installing a heated pool increases the value of a property, as it represents a highly attractive resource for potential buyers.
Disadvantages
Despite its advantages, a heated pool presents certain challenges:
- High costs: Both their construction and maintenance require a significant investment, including higher energy costs to maintain the water temperature.
- Ongoing maintenance: As with any pool, ongoing maintenance work is required, such as cleaning the perimeter and water, although these tasks are lesser compared to outdoor pools.
- Energy consumption: The use of heating systems, such as heat pumps, increases energy costs, although there are more efficient solutions such as solar-powered air conditioning.
Types of covers for heated pools
The choice of cover is crucial to optimise the use and maintenance of a heated pool. There are three main types of covers: low, inflatable and high. Below we detail each of them:
Low decks
Low covers are the most economical and offer an efficient option for those who prioritize keeping the water warm and clean. However, they do not allow you to walk around the pool, as they are designed low.
- Plastic covers: These are foldable and made of waterproof plastic tarpaulin, making them easy to set up and take down. Prices start at €1200.
- Rigid covers: Semi-circular or rectangular, they are usually delivered partially assembled. They are more stable structures, with a starting price of €2800.
inflatable covers
These inflatable domes are designed with a double layer of durable plastic and offer a larger enclosed space. Once inflated, they create a spacious enclosure that protects the pool and are easy to set up. Prices start at €8.000.
High covers
High enclosures allow you to create a recreational space around the pool, giving bathers greater freedom. These enclosures can be freestanding or attached to a wall of the house, and allow you to walk around the pool. The price of a fixed high enclosure starts at €15.000 and a telescopic kit for a 5 x 9 metre pool costs around €20.852.
Materials needed for the construction of a heated pool
The construction of a heated pool involves the use of various types of materials for both the pool shell and the cover.
Construction pool
To build a concrete pool, the ground where it will be built must be excavated. Once this is done, it is reinforced with a layer of concrete and waterproofed with insulating materials. The finish may include ceramic tiles, paint or other coatings.
Roofing materials
As for the roofs, these are generally made up of an aluminium structure with rigid plastic panels, such as polycarbonate or methacrylate. To prevent heat loss, the thickness of the panels is important: a minimum of 8 mm is recommended for the roof and 4 mm for the walls. In addition, the materials must be treated against UV rays for greater durability.
Installation of a heated pool
The installation of a heated pool can take on average about 7 days, although this time can vary depending on the weather and terrain. The installation of the cover requires an additional day.
It is important to consider that outdoor pools require adequate covers to prevent heat loss and optimize their use. If the pool is installed on a rooftop, permits must be secured and high-strength materials must be used to support the structure.
How much does it cost to build a heated pool
The cost of building a heated pool depends on multiple factors. On average, the cost of a 6x3 metre heated pool built in stone is around €19.500. This budget includes excavation, lining, plumbing system and installation of the heating system.
- Workforce: The cost of labor to install the roof usually involves the work of locksmiths, with an average cost of €16 per hour for journeymen and €13 per hour for helpers.
- Energy cost: If you opt for a heat pump system, you would achieve energy savings of 80%. This type of system, which converts 1 kW of electricity into 5 kW of heating, has a monthly operating cost of around €20.
There are other air conditioning options, such as solar panels, which, although they generate a higher initial cost, offer significant energy savings in the long term.
With this detailed information, you will be able to more accurately predict the costs and features associated with building a heated pool.