Gas swimming pool heaters might burn propane or natural gas to warm swimming pool water, and some manufacturers can provide an oil-burning model, which is very similar in construction. A gas pool heater consists of a series of finned copper tubes running back and forth above a burner tray. Gas is ignited on the burner tray to warm the copper tubing, and water from the filtration system is passed through. The pool water absorbs heat as it travels through the heated copper plumbing inside the pool heater, and then returns to the swimming pool.
Plumbing installation for a gas swimming pool heater is very simple. There are only two connections, one is clean water from the pool filter entering the heater and the other is heated water coming out of the heater to return to the pool. Most home owners can install the plumbing, however you must follow local codes for the installation of the gas line. Gas swimming pool heaters are a great source of quick, controlled heat for your pool, however the installation of the gas supply to the heater & the gas that your pool heater burns can be costly.