To keep your pool water warm and inviting, you need a heater that provides enough heat to last your family a day or two if the power goes out. We researched the best pool heaters based on ratings, effectiveness, ease of use, and energy efficiency.
Our top pick, the Intex Solar Heater Mat for Above Ground Swimming Pool, is portable, energy-efficient, and easy to install.
Here are the best pool heaters.
Best Swimming Pool Heaters: Editor Recommended
Our Editor’s Best Swimming Pool Heaters Reviews
Bestseller No. 1
AQUASTRONG Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump,Pool Heater for Above Ground and Inground Pool Heating and Cooling Pool Heater, Smart WiFi Control Pools Up to, 21000 Gallons
- Extend Your Swim Season: The pool heat pump features a dual-mode heating and cooling system that maintains optimal water temperatures year-round. Precision control ensures heating from 47–104℉ and cooling from 47–83℉, allowing you to enjoy extended swimming sessions through autumn’s crisp chill and spring’s cool mornings.
- Rapid Heating & APP Control: Engineered for speed and efficiency, it delivers 75,000 BTU warmth in hours, perfect for large pools, up to 21,000-gallon systems, or chilly climates. Take full control via the app & control panel. Adjust temperatures remotely, track energy use, and program heating schedules to fit your lifestyle.
- Inverter Energy Saving: Intelligent heat pump system featuring full DC variable frequency technology delivers 15.8 COP for maximum heating output. Adaptive frequency conversion algorithm dynamically adjusts power in real-time, achieving 70% energy savings over traditional electric heating and 40% higher efficiency than gas systems.
- Ultra-Quiet & Auto-Defrost: Variable frequency technology reduces operational noise to just 53 dB, paired with an intelligent defrosting system featuring automatically initiated cycles every 40 minutes that complete the process in just 5 minutes, ensuring uninterrupted winter operation with continuous heating performance.
- Easy to Assemble: Our heat pump features 3 versatile connection options designed to integrate with all pools,(1.25" & 1.5" hose adapter, 1.5" adapter conversion kit, 1.5" PVC pipe converter), ensuring hassle-free installation and optimal performance. Enjoy peace of mind with our 3-year warranty. Dive into comfort and reliability.
Bestseller No. 2
AQUASTRONG Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump,Pool Heater for Above Ground and Inground Pool Heating and Cooling Pool Heater, Smart WiFi Control Pools Up to, 9000 Gallons
- Extend Your Swim Season: The pool heat pump features a dual-mode heating and cooling system that maintains optimal water temperatures year-round. Precision control ensures heating from 47–104℉ and cooling from 47–83℉, allowing you to enjoy extended swimming sessions through autumn’s crisp chill and spring’s cool mornings.
- Rapid Heating & APP Control: Engineered for speed and efficiency, it delivers 35,000 BTU warmth in hours, perfect for large pools, up to 9,000-gallon systems, or chilly climates. Take full control via the app & control panel. Adjust temperatures remotely, track energy use, and program heating schedules to fit your lifestyle.
- Inverter Energy Saving: Intelligent heat pump system featuring full DC variable frequency technology delivers 15.8 COP for maximum heating output. Adaptive frequency conversion algorithm dynamically adjusts power in real-time, achieving 70% energy savings over traditional electric heating and 40% higher efficiency than gas systems.
- Ultra-Quiet & Auto-Defrost: Variable frequency technology reduces operational noise to just 48 dB, paired with an intelligent defrosting system featuring automatically initiated cycles every 40 minutes that complete the process in just 5 minutes, ensuring uninterrupted winter operation with continuous heating performance.
- Easy to Assemble: Our heat pump features 3 versatile connection options designed to integrate with all pools, (1.25" & 1.5" hose adapter, 1.5" adapter conversion kit, 1.5" PVC pipe converter), ensuring hassle-free installation and optimal performance. Enjoy peace of mind with our 3-year warranty. Dive into comfort and reliability.
Bestseller No. 3
MICOE 58,000 BTU Smart Swimming Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for 18,000 Gallons Above Ground & Inground Pools, App-Controlled Heating & Cooling, 220–240V
- High-Capacity & Saltwater Ready Heating: 58,000 BTU high-efficiency heating system designed for 8–30 ft above-ground or in-ground pools (up to 18,000 gallons). Features a corrosion-resistant titanium heat exchanger for safe, efficient heating of filtered saltwater and freshwater pools.
- Extended Swimming Season Performance: Engineered to operate reliably in ambient temperatures from 5°F to 109°F, delivering water temperatures up to 104°F under optimal conditions. Ideal for extending your swimming season into early spring and late fall.
- Smart App & Panel Control: Easily adjust temperature and heating schedules via the onboard control panel or mobile app. Heating range: 46–104°F; Cooling range: 45–82°F. Built-in auto-defrost function ensures stable operation in cooler conditions. For best results, start heating approximately 12 hours in advance.
- Energy-Efficient Professional Heat Pump: Powered by an advanced compressor and titanium heat exchanger, this air-source pool heat pump provides fast, consistent heating while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to traditional gas pool heaters.
- Ultra-Quiet, Durable & Safe Design: Operates at a low noise level of approximately 52 dB, ensuring a peaceful swimming environment day or night. The rugged ABS housing resists corrosion, fading, and cracking in high heat and humidity.
Bestseller No. 4
AQUASTRONG Swimming Pool Heat Pump,Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground and Inground Pool,Heating and Cooling Pool Heater Pools Up to, 6500 Gallons
- All-Season Pool Comfort: Featuring innovative dual-mode temperature control, this heat pump precisely heats water between 59–104°F or cools it within 59–83°F. By maintaining consistent thermal regulation, it extends swimming seasons by up to 6 months while delivering year-round comfort for pool enjoyment.
- Professional Thermal Performance: Featuring a 18,000 BTU high-output heating module, this 4-season system is designed for 5,000-gallon pools. The precision thermostat maintains ±2°F temperature accuracy by continuously monitoring ambient conditions, ensuring consistent comfort throughout the year.
- Energy Efficiency Redefined: With a high 5.5 COP, this ultra-efficient heat pump employs a powerful engine to ensure consistent energy savings. In comparison with conventional electric heating, it slashes energy consumption by 70% and provides 40% more savings than natural gas alternatives.
- Quiet Operation & Defrost: With ultra-quiet technology, the operating sound is maintained at 38 dB, which is quieter than a whisper. You can enjoy the comfort brought by the heat pump heating without being affected by any noise.Intelligent auto-defrost system that automatically removes ice buildup without manual intervention.
- Easy to Assemble: This heat pump comes with both 1.25" hose adapters and 1.5" conversion kits for easy installation, completed in under 10 minutes. The panel supports multi-mode smart control, complemented by a 3-year comprehensive warranty and lifetime technical support.
Bestseller No. 5
Hayward W3H150FDN Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater for Inground Pool Heating
- EASY TO USE: Intuitive inground pool heater control panel enables easy operation and maintenance. The digital LED display helps maintain pool water temperature while monitoring pool water heater performance with self-diagnostic capabilities
- MULTIPLE COVERAGE OPTIONS FOR POOLS AND SPAS: This gas pool heater and pool and spa heater suits in-ground pools and spas up to 400 sq ft with a natural gas connection; additional models cover 600, 750, or 1,200 sq ft
- ENERGY SAVING AND BUILT TO LAST: Efficiently designed pool heater for inground pools helps deliver consistent hot water for swimming pools, reduce pump run time for energy savings, and protect against corrosion caused by unbalanced water chemistry
- SIMPLE INSTALLATION: This 150,000 BTU Hayward natural gas pool heater allows flexible gas and electric connections on the right or left side, with an H-Series built-in 3/4" gas connection for easier fuel line setup
- LOW ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Hayward gas pool heaters for inground use are certified for low-NOx emissions and eco-friendly operation, reducing circulation pump run time while delivering a reliable swimming pool heater solution for inground pools
Bestseller No. 6
Varpoolfaye 58000 BTU Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump, 17000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater Above and Inground Pool,WiFi App Control, Pool Heater 220V/60Hz
- This pool heat pump is equipped with a titanium spiral heat exchanger, suitable for above-ground pools with a capacity of up to 17,000 gallons. It enables precise heating (46°F–104°F) and cooling (46°F–82°F), and can intelligently and quickly heat pools with a maximum capacity of 17,000 gallons
- The one-touch rapid heating function can increase the heating efficiency by 40% through the high-load operation of the equipment. You can achieve comprehensive control through the APP or touch screen control panel, remotely adjust the temperature, track energy consumption, and set on/off schedules for heating or cooling according to your lifestyle to avoid unnecessary energy waste. Our electric pool heater compared with gas heating, it is more money-saving, intelligent and convenient
- The above-ground pool warmer is equipped with additional soundproofing devices, operating at a noise level as low as 45 decibels. This allows you to enjoy undisturbed quiet time in the warm pool water, and you don't have to worry about it disturbing your sleep when the equipment heats up at night
- With limited power input, it achieves an energy efficiency ratio (COP) of 6.60. It can absorb energy from the air and transfer it to the water, suitable for both freshwater and saltwater. The equipment adopts DC inverter technology. It automatically adjusts the operating frequency according to environmental changes and equipment status, enabling more stable operation and a longer service life.
- Our product includes hose adapters suitable for 1.5-inch hoses, as well as an 118-inch (approximately 3-meter) power cord. If you have any questions during use, you can refer to the included instruction manual or our store for assistance. We will resolve your issues promptly
Bestseller No. 7
Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool 5KW Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Timer Pool Heater 120V 60Hz
- Impressive performance: Pool heater pump with a high-power compressor, titanium heat exchanger max output of 16000 BTU for above pool up to 5000 gallons, it achieves rapid and stable heating from 59-104°F and cooling from 46-82°F
- Multi-Season use and WiFi control: Electric pool heater has both heating and cooling mode, allowing us to extend swimming season by months and adjust settings via WiFi and set timed on/off anywhere by a mobile app
- Energy Efficient and Cost Effective : Our 120v pool heater achieving a COP of 4.3 is an energy-efficient heating system that works by extracting heat from the ambient air and transferring it to our fresh or salt water pool water, with minimal electricity, more cost-effective than gas or traditional electric heaters
- Quiet and Safe Operation: Equipped with additional soundproofing, above ground pool heater operates at a low 50dB noise level, allowing us to enjoy a peaceful swimming experience at home, also designed with water-electric separation for protecting our family
- Easy installation: Pool heater comes with two DN32-38 mm connectors and a 118 inch power cord, making installation a breeze. For any inquiries during use, refer to the manual or our store for assistance
Bestseller No. 8
STPFFOT Electric Pool Heater for Inground & Above Ground Pools 11KW 220V, Hot Tub Heaters with Digital Touch Screen, SPA Water Thermostat Swimming Pool Warmer
- PLEASE NOTICE - NOT PLUG AND USE! Since this product is a high-power 11KW device, it is NOT powered by a plug but by hard wiring. Therefore, please find a licensed electrician to install it, guaranteeing safety and compliance (220V required). Not applicable for salt water.
- POWERFUL PERFORMANCE: This electric pool heater is designed for inground & above-ground pools up to 1,200 gallons, it requires a minimum flow rate of 15 GPM (Requires a circulation pump greater than 1hp). With 11kw power, 50A 220V (split 2 phase), and 1.5” NPT inlet/outlet, this heater can heat a 1,000-gallon pool to 86°F in 2.5 hours（At an ambient temperature of 72°F）
- SMART TOUCHSCREEN CONTROL: The SPA heater is equipped with a digital touchscreen display, allows precise control over heating time (1–16 hours) and temperature (60–130℉). Easily switch between ℃ and ℉ and monitor water flow and heating status for seamless operation
- EFFICIENT & DURABLE HEATING ELEMENT: The hot tub heater uses advanced 316 stainless steel heating tubes which offer faster heat conduction and long-lasting performance, with higher resistance to rust than 304 stainless steel, ensuring your pool stays warm and inviting year-round
- ADVANCED SAFETY FEATURES: Built with multiple protections, including fuse safety, anti-dry burn, automatic shutdown for water shortage, and temperature-controlled start/stop. Enjoy peace of mind while keeping your pool heated
Bestseller No. 9
AQUASTRONG Swimming Pool Heat Pump,Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground and Inground Pool,Heating and Cooling Pool Heater Pools Up to, 5000 Gallons
- All-Season Pool Comfort: Featuring innovative dual-mode temperature control, this heat pump precisely heats water between 59–104°F or within 59–83°F. By maintaining consistent thermal regulation, it extends swimming seasons by up to 6 months while delivering year-round comfort for pool enjoyment.
- Professional Thermal Performance: Featuring a 16,000 BTU high-output heating module, this 4-season system is designed for 5,000-gallon pools. The precision thermostat maintains ±2°F temperature accuracy by continuously monitoring ambient conditions, ensuring consistent comfort throughout the year.
- Energy Efficiency Redefined: With a high 5.5 COP, this ultra-efficient heat pump employs a powerful engine to ensure consistent energy savings. In comparison with conventional electric heating, it slashes energy consumption by 70% and provides 40% more savings than natural gas alternatives.
- Quiet Operation & Defrost: With ultra-quiet technology, the operating sound is maintained at 38–48 dB, which is quieter than a whisper. You can enjoy the comfort brought by the heat pump heating without being affected by any noise.Intelligent auto-defrost system that automatically removes ice buildup without manual intervention.
- Easy to Assemble: This heat pump comes with both 1.25" hose adapters and 1.5" conversion kits for easy installation, completed in under 10 minutes. The panel supports multi-mode smart control, complemented by a 3-year comprehensive warranty and lifetime technical support.
Bestseller No. 10
Raypak 266,000 BTU Digital Electronic Ignition Natural Gas Pool Heater
- Built to withstand various weather conditions, perfect solution for environments requiring efficiency, convenience and versatility.
- Intermittent spark ignition pilot safety controls. Pilot only comes on when there is a call for heat.
- Space-age material means the heater won't retain residual heat after it is turned off, allowing it to be installed without the use of costly metal heat sinks.
- Part Number: 009217 | Model Number: P-R266A-EN-C
- Gas powered and suitable for use with swimming pools and spas
Best Swimming Pool Heaters Buying Guide
Before choosing the best swimming pool heaters you should consider the following options:
1. Energy Efficient Pool Heaters: One of the most important things to consider when choosing a swimming pool heater is energy efficiency.
The Department of Energy estimates that more than 25 percent of the energy used in a typical pool is lost through dissipation.
This can be reduced by choosing a more energy-efficient option, such as a heat pump.
Heat pumps move heat from one place to another, typically from the environment to the pool, using a fan and a heat exchange system.
They are more efficient than other types of heaters, reducing energy consumption by up to 75 percent and potentially cutting your energy bills by up to 30 percent.
2. Pool Volume: The size of your pool will also affect what type of pool heater you should choose.
Heat pump heaters are best for pools measuring up to 50,000 gallons. Above that size, you may need to look at other options.
Gas pool heaters, for example, are best for pools with a volume of 20,000 gallons or less. If your pool is larger, you will likely need two heaters to ensure the water is heated evenly.
3. Pool Shape and Location: The shape of your pool will also impact your choice of heater. If your pool has a very shallow end, for example, you may want to consider a heat pump, which is best suited to shallow pools.
You will also need to consider your climate. In cold climates, heat pumps are the most energy efficient option, while in milder climates, it is possible to use heat pumps all year round.
Other factors to consider include how efficiently heat is absorbed into the water, which depends on factors such as the depth and temperature of the water.
If your pool is in a shaded area, you will also need to look at heaters with a larger capacity to ensure the pool is heated evenly.
4. Pool Use: The type of pool heater you choose will also depend on how you plan to use your pool. If you plan to use it for swimming, for example, heat pump heaters are the most efficient option.
If you plan to use your pool for parties and entertaining, you may want to look at heaters that have a faster recovery rate.
What else you should know about best swimming pool heaters
1. What are the different types of swimming pool heaters?
There are three main types of swimming pool heaters: gas, electric, and solar.
2. How do I size a swimming pool heater for my pool?
A good rule of thumb is to select a heater that is able to raise the temperature of your pool by 20 degrees Fahrenheit in 8 hours or less.
3. How do I install a swimming pool heater?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the installation process for a swimming pool heater can vary depending on the type and model of heater you have. However, in general, you will need to connect the heater to the pool’s filtration system and then to a power source. You may also need to install a gas line if your heater runs on natural gas.
4. How do I maintain my swimming pool heater?
Swimming pool heaters require regular maintenance to function properly. The most important thing to do is to keep the filter clean. The filter keeps the water clean and free of debris. It also helps to circulate the water.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best swimming pool heaters. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best swimming pool heaters will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.