Big Changes Are Coming to Pool Heating in California
Starting January 1, 2026, new energy standards will reshape how pools are heated. Raypak is here to help you stay compliant, efficient, and ready.
California Title – 24
The California Energy
Commission’s New Building
Energy Efficiency Standards
Looking Ahead to 2026
We’ve gathered the facts and removed the complexities behind the new standards to prepare you for the new changes scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.
The new standards are a significant step towards energy efficiency impacting residential and commercial pool heating.
Summary of the Standards
What Is Title 24 and Why It Matters
California’s updated Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards require more energy-efficient pool heating systems for new installations and major upgrades. Traditional gas heaters are being phased out as primary heat sources. Instead, compliant options include:
- Heat pump pool heaters
- Solar thermal systems
- Hybrid systems using renewable energy
These changes aim to reduce energy waste and greenhouse gas emissions across residential, multifamily, and commercial pools.
* EXCEPTIONS:
- NEW pools at prisons
- Heating a pool for the first time at a Historical building
- Alterations to existing heated pools or spas
- Spas:
- Permanent spas being added to existing buildings in which natural gas is available.
- Portable electric spas (subject to Title 20).
- New spas when there is inadequate Solar Access Roof Area (SARA) to fit solar thermal collectors. Must be supported with a solar assessment report using a CEC-approved solar assessment tool.
For more information about the new standards, visit CEC Building Energy Efficiency Standards.
What to Expect
How This Affects You
If you're building a new pool or replacing a heater, you’ll need to choose a system that meets the new efficiency and emissions standards. What to expect:
No More Gas-Only Heaters as Primary Systems
Starting January 1, 2026, Title 24 prohibits using gas-only (natural and propane) pool heaters as the primary heating source for new pools or major renovations. Systems must now incorporate renewable or electric technologies like heat pumps or solar thermal to meet energy efficiency goals.
Sizing and Control Requirements for Heat Pumps
Heat pump pool heaters must be properly sized to the pool’s volume and usage patterns. Title 24 also requires advanced controls—such as timers and temperature limits—to optimize performance and reduce energy waste.
Documentation and Compliance Forms for Installations
Installers must submit specific compliance documentation, including energy calculations and equipment specs, to verify that the system meets Title 24 standards. This ensures transparency and accountability for both professionals and homeowners.
Increased Demand for Heat Pumps and Hybrid Heating Solutions
Increased Demand for Heat Pump and Hybrid Heating SolutionsAs Title 24 shifts the focus toward cleaner energy, heat pump pool heaters are emerging as the preferred solution. These systems offer high efficiency, lower operating costs, and reduced emissions. Hybrid setups—combining heat pumps with low-NOx gas heaters—provide flexibility and performance while meeting compliance requirements.
High-Efficiency Products and Training
As the industry adapts to these changes, Raypak Pool team is with you Every Step of the Way with products and training to help you through the transition.
Compliant Product Solutions
Raypak offers a robust lineup of Title 24-compliant pool heating products—including heat pumps, electric resistance heaters, and high-efficiency gas models—designed to meet California’s evolving energy standards. Backed by a knowledgeable sales and training team, we’re here to guide you through every step of the transition with expert support, product insights, and hands-on training.
Crosswind V Vertical Heat Pumps
- Built-in automation, up to 6 devices
- Wi-Fi enabled with Raymote App control
- Solar thermal heater control
- FDAS Approved pump control
- Heat and chill (Deluxe models)
- Steel construction
Crosswind Compact Heat Pumps
- Compact size
- Stackable
- Heat and chill (all models)
- Minimum 20 Amp breaker
E3T & E3T 3-Phase Electric Heaters*
- Compact size
- Minimal clearances
- External high limit reset
- Indoor/outdoor installation
* Electric resistant heaters must have 60% of power supplied by a (PV) photovoltaic solar system.
Professional Series Heat Pumps
- Stainless steel construction
The Raypak Family of Brands
When you see a badge from the Raypak family of brands on a piece of equipment, you know it stands for something. It represents our commitment to doing what’s right—for people, for the industry, for the planet.
