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 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. 2
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. 3
GRILLME 240V 3000W Immersion Bathtub and Swimming Pool Water Heater,Fully Submersible Portable Electric Heater,30 Galons Bathtub Heater,200 Galons Swimming Pool Heater,NEMA 6-15P Plug,100% Waterproof
- Product Parameters: 240V 3000W (Must Use NEMA 6-15P 15A Outlet, This Heater is 12.5A Current) , Heater Length 13.5 Inches, Power Cord Length 118 Inches.
- Fast Heating: The 3000W Heater Can Increase The Water Temperature Of A 30 Gallons Bathtub By 50 Degrees Fahrenheit Within 30 Minutes（Make Sure You Have A NEMA 6-15P 15A Outlet In Your Home).
- High Quality Material: The Shell Of The Heater Is Made Of Stainless Steel 316L Material, Which Has Better High-temperature And Corrosion Resistance Than Stainless Steel 304. The Anti Scalding Sheath Of The Heater Can Avoid Damaging The Container During Use.
- Notice: The Heater Needs To Be Completely Submerged In Water During The Heating Process To Avoid Dry Burning Damage. This Product Is Only Suitable For Heating Tap Water And Is Not Suitable For Heating Corrosive Liquids Such As Well Water,Seawater, Acids, Alkalis, etc.If There Is Scale On The Surface Of The Heater, It Should Be Regularly Removed With A Scale Remover Or Vinegar.
- Warranty: This Product Provides A One-year Warranty, And Is Free To Return Or Exchange If Damaged During Normal Use.
Bestseller No. 4
Doniks Pool Heater,for 4000 Gallons Above Ground Pools,Pool Heat Pump,Max Output 13882 BTU,120V/60Hz,Swimming Pool Heaters
- 【Ideal Choice for Above Ground Pools】-Our pool heater is specially designed for above-ground pools. It can operate in outdoor temperatures ranging from 40ºF to 110ºF With a maximum output of 13882 BTU/hr,pool heat pump is ideal for above-ground pools holding up to 3000 gallons and in-ground pools up to 4000 gallons.
- 【High Performance】– Powered by a robust compressor, our pool heaters deliver 16,184 BTU/hr. The corrosion-resistant titanium heat exchanger and smart control system ensure consistent water temperature. Built on cutting-edge heat pump technology, this heat pump captures energy from the air and efficiently transfers it to the water. With minimal electricity required to operate, it delivers outstanding efficiency, achieving a heat conversion rate of up to COP 5.9.
- 【Enhanced Safety Features】- Safety is a top priority with our swimming pool heaters. They include a child lock and a comprehensive protection system that guards against electrical leakage, low voltage, high and low temperature, and compressor overheat.
- 【Easy Installation】-No professional installation is required with our heat pump pool heater.You can easily hook it up yourself with a few quick connectors, then just plug and play, Also equipped withThe intelligent control system automatically maintains your pool at the desired temperature. Once set up, you won’t need to make any further adjustments. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy a warm and comfortable swimming pool.
- 【Extend Your Swim Season】- Our pool heater for above-ground pools, is specifically designed to heat above-ground and small in-ground swimming pools. Operating efficiently within an ambient temperature range of 40ºF to110ºF, it can heat water up to 110F, making it perfect for extending your swimming season by several months.
Bestseller No. 5
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. 6
AQUASTRONG Swimming Pool Heat Pump,Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground and Inground Pool,Heating and Cooling Pool Heater Pools Up to, 3000 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 12,000 BTU high-output heating module, this 4-season system is designed for 3,000-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 36 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. 7
TURBRO 33,000 BTU DC Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump, WiFi Control Electric Pool Heater for Above and Inground Pools up to 10,000 Gal, Heating and Cooling, Up to 15.8 COP, 110-120V, Beluga B33V
- Swim Any Season: Beluga series heats or cools your pool to maintain comfort all year long; set your desired water temp from 46-104°F in ambient outdoor temps from 5-109°F; programmable timer functions and smart WiFi control
- Cost-Effective Performance: Delivers 33,000 or 58,000 BTU output with a COP rating up to 15.8 (AHRI Standard 1160(I-P); air source technology utilizes ambient heat for outstanding efficiency and saves up to 70% on energy costs compared to natural gas heaters
- Inverter Technology: The Beluga series features a renowned brand’s full DC inverter compressor; intelligently adjusts working power to ensure a stable water temperature; saves up to 40% energy compared to traditional on-and-off models
- Built to Perform: Advanced titanium heat exchanger improves heat transfer efficiency while resisting corrosion to be compatible with saltwater pools; includes a four-way valve for seamless switching between heating and cooling modes
- For Variable Pools: B33V is suitable for pools up to 10,000 gallons (maximum size of 20’ round or 12’x24’ rectangular); B58V is suitable for pools up to 18,000 gallons (maximum size of 26’ round or 14’x42’ rectangular); not recommended for inflatable pools due to low water pressure. Enjoy peace of mind with a 2-year warranty on the full machine and a 5-year warranty on the compressor
Bestseller No. 8
13882 BTU Pool Heater, for 4000 Gallons Above Ground Pools,Swimming Pool Heaters,120V/60Hz with Digital Display Multi-Protection
- 【The Perfect Choice for Above-Ground Pools】- Designed specifically for above-ground pools, our pool heater operates efficiently in outdoor temperatures ranging from 40ºF to 110ºF. With a maximum output of 13882 BTU/hr, it’s ideal for above-ground pools up to 4,000 gallons.
- 【Powerful & Efficient Heating】- Featuring a high-performance compressor, our pool heat pump delivers a heating capacity of 13,882BTU/hr. The pure titanium heat exchanger ensures durability and corrosion resistance, while the smart control system maintains a steady pool temperature. Plus, the built-in 4-way valve enables automatic defrosting for consistent operation in cooler conditions.
- 【Advanced Safety Features】- Safety is our priority. Our pool heater comes with a child lock and an advanced protection system to safeguard against electrical leakage, voltage fluctuations, extreme temperatures, and compressor overheating, ensuring peace of mind while you enjoy your pool.
- 【Quick & Easy Setup】- No need for professional installation! Our heat pump pool heater is designed for simple DIY setup—just connect a few fittings, plug it in, and you’re ready to go. The intelligent control system keeps your pool at your desired temperature automatically, so you can sit back and enjoy warm, comfortable water without constant adjustments.
- 【Extend Your Swimming Season】-Built to maximize your pool enjoyment, this pool heater efficiently warms above-ground and small in-ground pools, even in ambient temperatures as low as 40ºF. Capable of heating water up to 110ºF, it helps extend your swimming season for months, letting you enjoy your pool well beyond summer.
Bestseller No. 9
Varpoolfaye 30,000 BTU Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool Swimming Pool Heat Pump Inground Pool Heater 120V 8,000 Gallon Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule
- Powerful Performance: With a high-pressure compressor, electric heat pump pool heater max output of 30,000 BTU, a COP of 5.8, it achieves rapid and stable heating. Ideal for above ground or inground pools up to 8,000 gallons, 14/16/18/21/23 foot pool
- Year-Round Comfort: 120v pool heater with both heating (46°F-104°F) and cooling (46°F-82°F) modes, ensuring perfect water temperatures for every season with our family
- Smart WiFi Control: Above ground pool heater easily adjust temperature, schedule, and functions via WiFi using the app for seamless control of our pool
- Energy Efficient and Quiet: Our pool heat pump is an energy-efficient heating system that works by extracting heat from the ambient air and transferring it to our pool water, with minimal electricity, more cost-effective than gas or traditional electric heaters. Operating at 52 dB, it ensures a peaceful swimming experience at home
- Durable and Easy Setup: Inground pool heater built with a titanium heat exchanger for freshwater or saltwater pools, it features 1.5 inch connectors and a 126 inch power cord for easy setup and use,also designed with water-electric separation for protecting our family
Bestseller No. 10
TURBRO 18,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above-Ground Pools and Spas up to 6,000 Gallons, Titanium Heat Exchanger, 5.5 COP, IPX4-Waterproof, 110-120V, Manatee M18
- Extended Swim Seasons: Heat or cool your pool to maintain comfort from spring to fall; enjoy programmable timer functions; cooling temp range of 46-82°F and heating temp range of 59-104°F; set your desired water temp in ambient temp from 41-109.4°F
- Cost-Effective Performance: Delivers 18,000 BTU output with a 5.5 COP rating; air source technology utilizes ambient heat for outstanding efficiency, which saves up to 40% on energy costs compared to natural gas heaters
- Built to Perform: Advanced titanium heat exchanger improves heat transfer efficiency while resisting corrosion to be compatible with saltwater pools; includes a four-way valve for seamless switching between heating and cooling modes
- Universal Pool Compatibility: Compact and portable design works great with inflatable pools, frame pools, small spas, and in-ground pools; fits round pools up to 16 ft or rectangular pools 12x20 ft; suitable for pools up to 6,000 gal
- Quick Setup: Includes hose clamps, hose connectors, drain outlet adapter, and a detailed user instruction; just connect the hoses, plug it in, and start using with a simple panel, no professional help required; water hoses and pool filters not included
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.