Many of our friends water temp in their Vinyl pool is approx 80 degrees right now. We have a Fiberglass appr 72 degrees. Do vinyl pools heat up faster than fiberlass pools?

The rate at which a swimming pool heats up depends on several factors, including the material of the pool, the size and depth of the pool, the amount of sunlight the pool gets, and the surrounding air temperature.

Pool Material

In general, vinyl pools heat up slightly faster than fiberglass pools due to some key differences in their materials and construction. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Color: Vinyl pools typically come in darker colors like blue or black, which absorb sunlight more efficiently than the lighter colors often used in fiberglass pools. Darker colors convert solar energy into heat, raising the water temperature.

2. Thermal Conductivity: Vinyl pool liners have higher thermal conductivity compared to fiberglass. This means that vinyl liners transfer heat more effectively from the sun-heated pool surface to the water itself.

Other Factors

The material of the pool is just one factor affecting water heating. Additional factors include:

1. Pool Size and Depth: Smaller and shallower pools heat up faster since there is less water volume to warm.

2. Sun Exposure: Pools exposed to direct sunlight for longer periods heat up more quickly. North-facing pools or those shaded by trees and buildings will naturally warm at a slower rate.

3. Air Temperature: The ambient air temperature plays a role, especially if your pool isn't covered. When the surrounding air is warmer, it helps elevate the pool water temperature too.

Summary

While vinyl pools generally heat up a bit faster than fiberglass pools due to material and color differences, it's important to remember that other factors like pool size, location, and ambient temperature also significantly impact overall heating rates. To achieve the desired water temperature, you may need to consider various pool heating options available for both vinyl and fiberglass pools.