The Future of Pool Heating: What the 2025 Title 24 Energy Code Means for You

When it comes to enjoying a warm, inviting pool, heating is a crucial factor, but it can also be one of the biggest energy expenses for homeowners. With California’s new 2025 Title 24, Part 6 Energy Code, some significant changes are coming to pool heating requirements, aimed at reducing the carbon footprint and promoting energy efficiency. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to build a new pool or upgrade your existing one.

Why Pool Heating is Getting a Makeover

The 2025 Energy Code sets out to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency across the state. As part of this effort, the code introduces specific requirements for newly constructed pools and newly installed heaters in existing pools. These changes are designed to push for more sustainable heating solutions and to cut down on the long-term operational costs of maintaining a comfortable water temperature.

Five Pool Heating Options to Meet the New Standards

If you’re installing a new pool or Spa, you’ll need to choose one of these five options to comply with the latest regulations:

1. Solar Pool Heating System: Use a solar pool heating system with a collector surface area of at least 60% of your pool’s surface area. This approach takes advantage of abundant sunlight and is often one of the most cost-effective long-term solutions.

2. Heat Pump Pool Heater: Opt for a heat pump pool heater that meets specific sizing requirements as laid out in the new code (Reference Joint Appendix JA16.3). This efficient technology uses electricity to transfer heat from the air to the water, significantly reducing energy consumption/carbon footprint compared to traditional gas heaters.

3. Renewable Energy-Based System: Consider a system that draws at least 60% of its annual heating energy from on-site renewable sources, such as solar panels or waste heat recovery systems. This option supports a low-carbon footprint while potentially reducing your energy bills over time.

4. Combination System: Use a hybrid approach, combining a solar pool heating system with a heat pump, but without any additional supplementary heater. This method provides reliable heating while maximizing renewable energy use.

5. Alternative System: If you have a unique heating setup in mind, it’s possible to apply for an alternative system. This system must be evaluated and approved by the Executive Director, demonstrating that it uses no more energy than the previously mentioned systems.

   
   

Why This Matters

Essentially, this code update significantly reduces fossil fuel sources as an option for heating pools and spas. Contractors will need to rely on heat pumps, solar-electric, and passive solar hot water collection in order to meet the requirements. 

These changes aren’t just about compliance – they represent a significant opportunity to cut down on energy bills and reduce the home’s carbon footprint. Whether you’re a pool owner, a builder, or a contractor, understanding these options can help you make smarter, more sustainable choices for the future with long term life-cycle savings.

Stay tuned as we explore more ways the 2025 Energy Code is reshaping energy efficiency. Until then, keep your pool warm and your energy footprint cool!