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Swimming pool heaters keep the water nice and comfortable for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Although they have been used in various forms for decades to increase water temperature, there have been plenty of innovations in some of the best pool heaters. There are several types of pool heaters, including gas, electric, and solar-powered, and each has strengths and weaknesses, with electric falling between gas and solar for effectiveness and energy conservation.
Alicia Toedter, pool and spa care education and content leader for Leslie’s based out of Phoenix, Arizona, says, “Pool heaters are a must-have for pool owners looking to swim longer—and more comfortably—throughout the year. Heaters can help you keep the pool open year-round in warm and moderate climates, and pool owners in cooler climates can extend their swim time earlier in the spring and later in the fall with the warmer temperatures.”
Choosing the best pool heater for your swimming pool means considering the size of the pool, the type of pool (above-ground or inground), and the average temperatures where you live. This list of recommended pool heaters considers these factors, plus type, value, and ease of installation.
- BEST OVERALL: Raypak 333K BTU Digital Propane Pool Heater
- RUNNER-UP: Hayward W3HP21404T 140K BTU HeatPro Pool Heat Pump
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: SunQuest 2-by-12-Foot Solar Swimming Pool Heaters
- BEST ABOVE-GROUND: Pentair EC-461059 125K BTU MasterTemp Pool Heater
- BEST INGROUND: Hayward W3H250FDP 250K BTU Universal H-Series Heater
- BEST ELECTRIC: FibroPool 55K BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump
- BEST PROPANE: Hayward W3H150FDP Universal H-Series 150K BTU Heater
- BEST GAS: Lochinvar EnergyRite 400K BTU Natural Gas Pool Heater
- BEST ENERGY-EFFICIENT: Smartpool S601P Sunheater Solar Heating System
- BEST FOR COLD CLIMATES: Raypak 406K BTU Digital Ignition Natural Gas Heater
- BEST FOR SALT WATER: Hayward W3H400FDN 400K BTU Universal H-Series Heater
How We Chose the Best Pool Heaters
In order to put together a list of the best swimming pool heaters, it was necessary to research pool heat pump models, solar heaters, natural gas pool heaters, and propane pool heater products. Additionally, it was important to consider whether each product was suitable for inground pools, above-ground pools, or if the heater could be used for both setups.
Pool heaters remain outdoors while they are in use, so our top picks needed to have a weather-resistant protective casing or enclosure that could keep the internal components safe in poor climate conditions. According to Toedter, “You’ll need to figure out how many BTUs you’ll need, as the BTU output indicates the heater’s ability to warm your pool water.”
She goes on to explain that “a BTU, otherwise known as a British thermal unit, is a common measure of heat production. A single BTU of heat energy will raise the temperature of a pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit. It takes 8.33 BTUs to warm a gallon of water by 1 degree Farhenheit. Larger pools require a higher BTU rating than a small pool.” (More information about BTUs can be found in the section Pool Size, which appears below our product reviews.)
Optimal energy efficiency was also taken into consideration to help keep operating costs low.
Our Top Picks
The products below were chosen for quality, price, type, and other key shopping considerations to help you find one of the best pool heaters for raising the water temperature to a relaxing level.
Best Overall
Raypak 333K BTU Digital Propane Pool Heater
Pros
- The heater’s high-heat output is suitable for most inground pools
- Features a clear easy-to-read LCD digital display
- Intermittent spark ignition only ignites the pilot light when necessary
- Has a highly efficient copper fin tube heat exchanger
Cons
- The heater requires a gas line installation for fuel
Product Specs
- Power source: Natural gas
- Heat output: 333,000 BTUs
- Pool type: Inground
The Raypak natural gas pool heater has an electronic ignition that automatically starts the heater when the water temperature falls below the temperature that can be set on the microprocessor-controlled thermostat. The LCD digital display clearly indicates this set temperature and provides accurate temperature readings so users can see how effectively the heater is warming the water.
This natural gas pool heater has a midrange to high rating at 333,000 BTUs, which is ideal for inground pools. This is partially because of the copper fin tube heat exchanger, which is made from a single piece of copper for maximum heat transfer potential. The pool heater also is compatible with most major pool control systems, but like most gas pool heaters, it has a higher price than electric or solar options.
Get the Raypak 333K BTU pool heater at Amazon or Best Buy Pool Supply.
Runner-Up
Hayward W3HP21404T 140K BTU HeatPro Pool Heat Pump
Pros
- Has an acoustic compression cover and profiled fan for silent operation
- Features a high-efficiency titanium heat exchanger
- Well-suited for coastal locations; resistant to rust, UV radiation, rain, and salt water
Cons
- Quite expensive compared to other pool heaters on our list
Product Specs
- Power source: Electric
- Heat output: 140,000 BTUs
- Pool type: Inground
For those who live in a warmer climate and like the energy efficiency of an electric pool heater, the Hayward W3HP21404T 140K BTU electric pool heat pump might be what is needed. It has a titanium heat exchanger designed for optimal heat transfer and reliability, helping the pool heat pump to reach a maximum output of 140,000 BTUs. The heater also has an ultragold evaporator fin to help protect the internal components from corrosion, especially in very wet, humid environments, like coastal towns.
This electric pool heat pump has an injection-molded plastic body that resists ultraviolet (UV) radiation, rust, and deterioration, so it’s a long-lasting choice that’s easier to maintain. It features an acoustic compression cover on the heater casing and has a profiled fan for silent operation, which is a bonus for flexibility of location. This one has a higher price than many gas pool heaters, but it has an energy-efficient design.
Get the Hayward W3HP21404T pool heater at Amazon or Pool Supplies Superstore.
Best Bang for the Buck
SunQuest 2-by-12-Foot Solar Swimming Pool Heaters
Pros
- Comes with two 12-foot-long by 2-foot-wide foot solar panels for improved heating
- Suitable for above-ground and small inground pools
- 2-inch headers provide more efficient water circulation
Cons
- Not as effective as electric or gas pool heaters; works best for warm climates
Product Specs
- Power source: Solar
- Heat output: N/A
- Pool type: Above-ground or small inground
The SunQuest solar swimming pool heater comes with two solar panels that are 12 feet long by 2 feet wide for a complete solar collector range of 48 square feet. This solar pool heater can heat above-ground pools, or even small inground pools, for a relatively inexpensive price when compared to gas heaters, electric heaters, and even some other solar heaters.
The SunQuest solar pool heater has 2-inch diameter headers to ensure that the flow of water through the system is not slowed down or interrupted by an insufficient pipe. It can be installed by handy DIYers who know their way around a pool, and possibly a roof, depending on where the heater will go. This heater can increase the standing temperature of pool water by up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
Get the SunQuest pool heater at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Above-Ground
Pentair EC-461059 125K BTU MasterTemp Pool Heater
Pros
- Moderate heat output is suitable for large above-ground pools
- Offers 82 percent thermal efficiency with its premixed gas combustion technology
- Heater’s durable enclosure is corrosion- and UV-resistant
- Easy-to-use advanced LCD display/controller that provides useful information and heater control
Cons
- Requires a ¾-inch gas line installation up to 50 feet from the source
Product Specs
- Power source: Natural gas
- Heat output: 125,000 BTUs
- Pool type: Above-ground or small inground
Having an above-ground pool doesn’t automatically mean users need to settle for slow solar heaters when they can use this modest natural gas pool heater by Pentair. The heater features an 82 percent thermal efficiency rating and a moderate heat output of 125,000 BTUS, which is more than enough for an above-ground pool with up to 15,000 gallons of water.
The light-duty pool heater holds up well under the sun and in rainy weather due to the corrosion- and UV-resistant enclosure. While the initial installation will require a ¾-inch gas line connection, the rotating digital display is a convenient feature for any installation orientation.
Get the Pentair pool heater at Pool Supplies Superstore, Pool Supply Unlimited, or Doheny’s.
Best Inground
Hayward W3H250FDP 250K BTU Universal H-Series Heater
Pros
- Easy-to-read LED digital control panel makes it simple to adjust temperature
- Designed for inground pools as well as spas and hot tubs
- Safety lockout feature prevents unauthorized control panel use
- Single maintenance access point streamlines heat positioning
Cons
- Costly propane fuel investment needed to heat the pool
Product Specs
- Power source: Propane
- Heat output: 250,000 BTUs
- Pool type: Inground
If a propane pool heater for an inground pool is appealing, the Hayward W3H250FDP heater falls nicely between the power of a 400K BTU pool heater and the modest efficiency of a 150K BTU heater with an output of 250,000 BTUs. This propane pool heater has an easy-to-use LED control panel that displays a digital temperature readout, heater diagnostics, and a lockout feature that prevents the control panel from being used by unauthorized individuals.
The gas pool heater has a cupronickel (copper nickel) heat exchanger. The front panel is the only access point for maintenance and operation, so users won’t have an issue placing the heater where it will be accessible from all sides.
Get the Hayward W3H250FDP pool heater at Pool Supplies Superstore or Amazon.
Best Electric
FibroPool 55K BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump
Pros
- Environmentally friendly; uses electricity instead of gas or propane
- Energy-efficient design with high-pressure compressors for cost-effective heating
- Features user-friendly digital control panel with easy-to-read display and temperature settings
Cons
- Offers best performance in humid climates and is less efficient in dry areas
Product Specs
- Power source: Electric
- Heat output: 55,000 BTUs
- Pool type: Inground or above-ground
FibroPool’s pool heater is an electric model offering a heat output of 55,000 BTUs, making it suitable for inground pools up to 10,000 gallons and above-ground pools up to 21 feet round or 15 feet by 30 feet oval. Since it’s powered by electricity, it’s more eco-friendly and cost efficient than comparable gas and propane pool heaters.
This FibroPool model is highly efficient, using advanced compressors and titanium heat exchanges to ensure effective heating while remaining energy efficient. The enamel-coated steel case is completely weatherproof, so it’s built to withstand a variety of outdoor conditions.
One of the biggest perks of this model is its user-friendly digital control panel, which offers straightforward temperature control. Depending on where users plan to place the control panel, an extension cable may be necessary and must be purchased separately.
Get the FibroPool heat pump at Amazon, EZ Hot Tubs, or FibroPool.
Best Propane
Hayward W3H150FDP Universal H-Series 150K BTU Heater
Pros
- Cupronickel heat exchanger improves heater efficiency
- Forced-draft combustion system resists outside weather variables
- Single maintenance access point streamlines heat positioning
- Versatile; suited for both above-ground and inground pools
Cons
- Requires a costly propane investment to heat the pool
Product Specs
- Power source: Propane
- Heat output: 150,000 BTUs
- Pool type: Above-ground or small inground
For those who prefer the power of a propane pool heater, then this Hayward 150K BTU propane pool heater might fit the bill. Accessible only from the front panel, it features an easy-to-use control panel for simple service, operation, and maintenance. This propane pool heater has an output of 150,000 BTUs, which is acceptable for large above-ground pools or smaller inground pools.
The gas pool heater has a cupronickel heat exchanger and a Hayward-patented polymer header designed to help to reduce energy consumption. The forced-draft combustion system moves air at a consistent rate within the combustion chamber to essentially eliminate outside weather variables so that the heater doesn’t struggle in the wind or rain to keep the pool at the right temperature.
Get the Hayward W3H150FDP pool heater at Amazon, Walmart, or Pool Supplies Superstore.
Best Gas
Lochinvar EnergyRite 400K BTU Natural Gas Pool Heater
Pros
- High-efficiency copper-finned tube and heat exchanger setup
- Durable polymer headers reduce energy consumption
- Easy-to-understand 16-character display
- Fully shielded and windproof combustion chamber
Cons
- Lacks versatility; not designed for use with saltwater pools
Product Specs
- Power source: Natural gas
- Heat output: 402,000 BTUs
- Pool type: Inground
This Lochinvar EnergyRite pool heater is made for high-efficiency and power heat output, allowing users to quickly heat pool water with one of the fastest heat-up times in the industry. The pool heater runs on natural gas, producing up to 402,000 BTUs of heat, though this also means that users will need to have a natural gas line connection installed.
Take advantage of the copper-finned tube, advanced heat-exchanger, and durable polymer headers to reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency. Ideal for inground pools, the Lochinvar EnergyRite pool heater features a clear, easy-to-read display and a safety-sealed combustion chamber. Just keep in mind that this pool heater is not made for use with saltwater pools.
Get the Lochinvar pool heater at Pool Supply Unlimited or Pools Etc.
Best Energy-Efficient
Smartpool S601P Sunheater Solar Heating System
Pros
- Reinforced headers and wind vents for wind-resistant operation
- No ongoing energy-consumption costs as it uses solar energy
- Individually fed collector tubes for efficient heat absorption
Cons
- Not as effective in colder climates; may not be suitable for all shoppers
- Requires 80 square feet of space for installation
Product Specs
- Power source: Solar
- Heat output: N/A
- Pool type: Above-ground or small inground
The Smartpool S601P Sunheater solar heating system is an energy-efficient option for those who have a long bungalow roof or a broad yard where the 80 square feet of solar panels can be installed for ideal access to the sun. The panels are made of durable polypropylene and have individually fed collector tubes, with only one header hold for each heating tube. This system is relatively simple to install if there is the space, and it can increase the temperature of a pool by as much as 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
The polypropylene solar panels have fiberglass-reinforced headers and wind vents to help keep the pool heater protected in windy conditions. Despite all of the great features of this product, its installation kit is sold separately.
Get the Smartpool pool heater at Amazon, EZ Pool & Spa Supply, or DIYcontrols.com.
Best for Cold Climates
Raypak 406K BTU Digital Ignition Natural Gas Heater
Pros
- High heat output is ideal for colder climates
- Intermittent spark ignition only ignites the pilot light when necessary
- Polyester-coated cabinet to protect the internal components
- Digital control panel provides a clear LCD display
Cons
- Requires a gas line connection for installation so it’s not a DIY product
Product Specs
- Power source: Natural gas
- Heat output: 406,000 BTUs
- Pool type: Inground
The colder it gets, the more powerful a pool heater needs to be, which is why the Raypak 406K BTU pool heater works in cooler climates. This natural gas pool heater has an excellent heat output rating of 406,000 BTUs, and it uses an electronic ignition system to automatically turn the heater on when the temperature of the pool water drops below the temperature set on the thermostat.
The LCD digital display shows the temperature and can be used to increase or decrease the desired temperature. The internal components of the heater sit inside a polyester-coated cabinet, designed to keep water and moisture out so that users don’t have to worry about corrosion in poor weather. The heater also has a stainless steel tube where the water exits the unit to ensure that the water traveling from the heater to the pool is rust-free.
Get the Raypak 406K BTU pool heater at Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy Pool Supply.
Best for Salt Water
Hayward W3H400FDN 400K BTU Universal H-Series Heater
Pros
- Patented polymer header for improved energy efficiency
- Corrosion-resistant design is ideal for saltwater pools
- High heat output is suitable for inground pools
Cons
- Complicated installation due to natural gas line connection requirement
Product Specs
- Power source: Natural gas
- Heat output: 400,000 BTUs
- Pool type: Inground
Owning a saltwater pool comes with concern about corrosion to internal components from the salt, but the Hayward W3H400FDN pool and spa heater has a cupronickel heat exchanger for added protection. It can be used with both regular pool water and salt water without damaging parts.
The natural gas pool heater has a high heat output of 400,000 BTUs, allowing users to quickly and efficiently heat the pool. The heater comes outfitted with a simple-to-use LED control panel and a unique patented polymer header design for superior energy efficiency and protection against erosion in high-flow conditions.
Get the Hayward W3H400FDN pool heater at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Pool Supply Unlimited.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Pool Heater
Before choosing a pool heater for your pool, take a few minutes to learn more about some of the most important shopping considerations to keep in mind.
Types of Pool Heaters
Pool heaters come in three different types, which are differentiated by their power source. These include gas, solar, and electric heaters.
Gas
A gas heater uses propane or natural gas to quickly and effectively heat the water in the pool to the desired temperature. These powerful heaters are the most common method of heating pools in colder climates—those chilly spots that only give users a few months of swimming weather. They far surpass both electric and solar pool heaters in their ability to produce heat and in the amount of time it takes for them to heat up the pool. However, these heaters have a high initial cost plus the ongoing cost of natural gas or propane.
Solar
Solar pool heaters can be as basic as a fitted solar blanket that sits on top of the water to absorb and direct the energy from the sun. However, more effective solar heaters have been created that use a black or very dark tubing installed outside the pool, like on the roof of the house, to absorb heat from the sun. This heater draws in the water from the pool, forcing it through a series of heating tubes before returning the water to the pool at a warmer temperature.
Solar pool heaters are not very effective in colder climates because they rely on heat energy from the sun and ambient heat energy in the air to warm up the water. However, they are the least expensive option and the most energy-efficient heater type available.
Electric
Electric heaters come in two types. The first is a direct-flow heater that uses electricity to heat the water as it passes through the unit. This system is similar to a tankless water heater and doesn’t take up much space. However, electric heaters are quite expensive to own and operate, falling just below gas pool heaters in initial cost and exceeding them in ongoing electricity costs.
The second style is a heat-pump-based electric header. These aren’t as effective in colder climates because this type relies on the ambient temperature in the air to heat the pool. This is similar to how an air conditioner cools the home, but the desired outcome has been reversed. These heaters are not exactly cheap, but they are less expensive than gas pool heaters.
Location
The location of the pool heater seems like an odd thing to consider, but depending on the type of pool heater, users might have to use parts of the house or yard to install the heater.
- Gas pool heaters normally sit beside the pool or in a nearby utility shed so that they can connect easily to the water pump and filtration system. These heaters are larger than electric pool heaters but require significantly less space than a solar heater.
- Electric pool heaters are about one-half to one-quarter the size of gas pool heaters and are typically installed beside the pool or with the pump and filtration system.
- Solar pool heaters take up the most space and require the most planning prior to installation. Some solar pool heaters will sit alongside the pool, and others can go on fencing, decking, or even on a roof so that they can absorb the most heat possible. Always measure and properly plan out the solar heater layout to ensure users have enough space.
Pool Size
The size of the pool is a big consideration to keep in mind while shopping for a pool heater because the larger the volume of the pool, the more energy required to heat the water to the desired temperature. Because of this, a solar pool heater is seldom used to heat a very large swimming pool. However, if you really like the idea of solar energy heating up the pool, you might use two or more solar heaters to provide enough power to warm the water.
For very large pools, it is better to go with a gas pool heater or a powerful electric pool heater. Typically, heat potential for pool heaters is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). For example, 1 BTU raises the temperature of 1 pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit, so the higher the BTUs of a pool heater, the faster it can raise the temperature of the water.
Water Temperature in Season
Climate plays a significant role in choosing the best heater for the pool. Users can choose just about any pool heater in a warm climate. However, the power of a large gas pool heater to keep the water temperature at the right level might not be needed. In this case, an expensive gas pool heater would be a waste of money. For warmer climates, a solar pool heater or an electric heat pump that pulls heat in from the air is typically most beneficial.
Colder climates often require the extra power of a gas pool heater, so users likely won’t get much use out of a solar pool heater or an electric heat pump because the amount of solar energy and ambient heat in the air is much lower and unreliable.
Heat Conservation
Pool heaters are designed to direct the heat they produce into the water as it flows through the heater. To facilitate this, heaters are built to conserve the temperature of the water using insulating materials like foam or plastic. These feature prominently with solar pool heaters because they must be laid out in the open air to draw heat from the sun. However, doing so can also allow heat to escape from the water, so the materials used and the layout of the heating tubes must balance functionality with the conservation of the produced heat.
Heater Casing
Gas and electric pool heaters both have casings designed to keep the heater and the units within protected from water, moisture, impact damage, and temperature fluctuations. These cases also are insulated so that the water flowing through them does not lose heat before it exits the pump. They often are designed to look attractive so that they are not an eyesore in the yard.
With solar pool heaters, users don’t have to worry as much about the casing of the unit because the bulk of a solar heater is not in a casing. Instead, it spreads across a wide area to absorb as much sun and heat as possible.
Flow-Rate Calibration
Flow rate is the measurement of the volume of water that can pass through the pump within a given period of time. Flow-rate calibration allows the owner to change the flow rate of the pool heater by increasing or decreasing the available space for water to flow within the system. Put simply, users are opening or closing the inlet or outlet valves to control the water flow.
This isn’t a common feature with pool heaters because the pump and filtration systems typically control the flow rate of the water. However, some pool heaters offer the option to calibrate the flow rate so that pool owners can optimize it to their preference.
Winterizing
Winterizing is the act of preparing the pool, pump, filtration system, pool heater, and any other pool components for freezing temperatures so that the hoses, brackets, filters, and internal parts do not bend and break because of ice.
Pool owners must completely remove solar pool heaters to safely winterize them, which is another reason why solar heaters are not a great option for colder climates. Electric pool heaters and gas pool heaters both can be winterized by disconnecting the power source and hoses, emptying the water, storing the components safely through the winter, and blowing out any remaining water with a wet/dry shop vacuum or a leaf blower.
Ease of Installation
If users plan to take on this project without professional help, it is important to consider how difficult it is to install the heater users choose.
- Solar pool heaters are time-consuming to install. Still, they are the easiest pool heater type for a DIYer to set up as long as there is plenty of space and users have the additional tools or ladders the job might require.
- Electric pool heater installation typically is best left to the professionals. Even if users connect the piping for the flow of the water, it is always better to have an electrician connect and confirm that the electrical system is working and safe, especially with electrical equipment around water.
- Gas pool heaters are the most difficult to set up because they often require both gas and electrical feeds. Like in the case of the electric pool heater, consider hiring a professional to ensure the gas connections are secure before using the pool heater.
Maintenance
Just like with any other part of the pool, the heater requires ongoing maintenance to keep it running efficiently, including winterizing (depending on geographic location), cleaning, and repairs. It is recommended that any type of pool heater should have at least one annual maintenance visit from a professional to ensure that the system is running correctly, though twice a year is better if the pool heater is running all year long.
If regular maintenance or heater failure is a concern, look to invest in a product with a long warranty period so that users can get replacement parts or even a replacement heater if necessary.
FAQs
Read on below to find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about pool heaters.
Q. Can I install a pool heater myself?
It depends on your level of technical skill, the type of pool heater you buy, and the setup of your home (such as whether users have available natural gas lines). Some heaters, especially solar pool heaters, can definitely be installed by a DIYer with experience, but in general, you will benefit from a professional setting up your pool heater so they can test it and ensure that it is working correctly and safely.
Q. Are pool heaters noisy?
Some pool heaters, especially gas-fueled products, can have a noisy operating level, but most pool heaters are relatively quiet, with large, insulated bodies that muffle the sound they produce.
Q. Can pool heaters be repaired?
Yes, assuming that the damage done to the pool heater is not severe enough to completely disable or destroy the heater, then its components should be able to be replaced or repaired. Though again, it is better to leave something like this to a pro to ensure that you get the heater working properly and safely.
Q. Is it recommended to leave a pool heater on overnight?
Absolutely leave your heater on overnight. In fact, if you turn your pool heater off at night, the lower temperatures outside will drop the temperature of the pool water, forcing the heater to work harder in the morning and costing you more money in gas or electric bills.
Q. How do you winterize a pool heater?
Winterizing is normally a process done with gas pool heaters used in climates where freezing temperatures occur. To winterize your pool heater, follow these five steps:
- Turn off the gas flow to the heater using the valves on the gas line.
- Turn off the heater.
- Open the pressure switch (you do not need to remove it entirely).
- Open and remove all drain plugs, ensuring that you put them in a safe space for storage until you reopen the pool.
- Blow out the heater with a shop vacuum or leaf blower to get all remaining water out of the heater so there is nothing left inside to freeze as temperatures drop.
