This isn't a cost. It's an investment.
The figures on this page are real and we don't hide them — that's how AE operates. But we want to be honest about how to read them. Your pools & spas project isn't a line-item expense; it's an investment in your home's value, your family's daily experience, and a space you'll use for the next twenty to thirty years.
When you compare bids, compare what you're investing in — the spec, the crews, the warranty, the company that will still be standing in year ten — not just the price tag. The lowest bid is almost always the most expensive build over time.
Which pool heater is best in Arizona — gas, heat pump, or solar?
Heater choice depends on what you're heating (spa vs pool), how fast, and how often. Here's the honest matrix.
Educational estimate, not a quote. Ranges shown are Arizona-market planning estimates. Final pricing depends on site access, size, materials, engineering, drainage, utilities, permits, equipment access, existing conditions, and final scope. Binding pricing is only valid in a written proposal signed by an AE representative.
Install cost (typical residential)
- Natural gas heater (400K BTU): $3,500–$5,500 installed w/ gas line work.
- Propane heater: add $1,000–$2,500 for tank + line if not already on site.
- Electric heat pump (100K–140K BTU): $4,500–$7,500 installed.
- Solar panels (roof-mounted): $4,000–$8,000 depending on panel count.
Monthly runtime cost (Phoenix, keeping pool ~85°F)
- Gas — pool: $400–$900/month in shoulder season. Not economical for daily pool use.
- Heat pump — pool: $80–$220/month. Best long-season pool choice.
- Solar — pool: near-zero after install. Slower to heat; needs pump time.
- Gas — spa (2–4 uses/week): $30–$70/month. Unbeatable for spa-only heat.
Common questions.
Plan before you sign anything.
Match a heater to how you actually use the pool
Tell us your pool size, target temp, and how often you swim — we'll spec the right heater and give you real monthly runtime numbers.
Start My Project PlanWhy this is an investment, not a cost.
An AE backyard is engineered to add daily livability and long-term home value. We publish honest ranges and build to code with a licensed and bonded Arizona crew. AE provides project-specific workmanship and manufacturer-warranty information in the signed agreement. Website summaries are for planning only.
- Licensed, bonded & insured in Arizona. ROC 340966 (R-62) · ROC 341002 (R-3) · ROC 347738 (KA-5) · ROC 211530 (CR-21). Most Arizona contracting work valued at $1,000 or more — or requiring a permit — must be performed by a properly licensed contractor, subject to statutory exemptions. Verify the legal entity, license status, and classification with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
- Real ranges, itemized scope. You see materials, finishes, equipment models, and a line-item budget before you sign — not a one-line "pool — $90,000."