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
Hayward W3H250FDN Universal H-Series 250,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater for In-Ground Pools and Spas
- The Hayward Universal H-Series 250,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater delivers premium heating performance for years of reliable, long-lasting comfort
- A durable cupro nickel heat exchanger offers exceptional protection against corrosion and premature failure caused by unbalanced water chemistry
- Industry-leading hydraulic design reduces circulation pump run time to provide major energy savings
- Front-panel-only access and intuitive control pad provide easy operation, service and maintenance
- Low NOx emissions meet air quality standards in all low-NOx areas, ensuring low environmental impact
SaleBestseller No. 2
Aquastrong Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump, 35,000 BTU 9,000 Gallons Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground and Inground Pool, WiFi Capable Timer, Heating and Cooling Pool Heater 120V
- 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.
$1,298.99
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SaleBestseller No. 3
Intex 28685E 47 Inch x 47 Inch Solar Pool Water Heater Mat for 8,000 Gallon Above Ground Swimming Pool with Hose Attachment and Adaptors, Black
- Solar heater mat uses solar technology to increase the temperature of the pool water by approximately 5 to 9 degrees depending on the weather
- Features an 11-square-foot surface to absorb the sun's rays to heat up above-ground pools; Dimensions (L x W): 47.25 x 47.25 inches (flat)
- Simple and economical to use, compatible with filter pumps with up to 1/3 HP or a pump flow rate less than 2,000 GPH; Weight: 6.41 pounds
- Includes a 1.25-inch hose attachment point, a bypass valve, 1 adaptor A, and 1 adaptor B for a 1.50-inch hose connection
- Constructed of heavy-duty UV stabilized PVC; Suitable for above-ground pools up to 8000 gallons; Folds for compact winter storage
$29.02
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SaleBestseller No. 4
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, heat from 59-104°F and cool 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
- Engineering research and development: Limited electrical input, achieving a COP of 4.3, 120v pool heater absorbs energy from the air and transfers it to the water, whether fresh or salt water
- Quiet operation: Equipped with additional soundproofing, above ground pool heater operates at a low 50dB noise level, allowing us to enjoy a peaceful experience
- 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
$509.99
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SaleBestseller No. 5
Pool Heater-11KW 220V Upgrade Thermostat Electric Swimming Pool Heater,Digital Touch Display Energy Efficient Pool Water Heater for Spas, Bathtubs and Above Ground in-Ground Pools. (Upgrade 220 11KW)
- This Is Not A Plug and Play Unit, You Will Need to Have an Electrician Install It According to The Circuit Instructions Before You Can Use It. Does Not Come With Extra Cables, Plugs, Circulation Pump. Purchase With Caution。Pool Heater Saves Energy, Protects the Environment and Is Suitable for Small to Medium Sized Pools and Spas.
- FAST HEATING: With a Powerful 11KW Heating Capacity, the Unit Quickly Raises the Temperature of the Pool Water, and the Pool Heater Cycles Around the Preset Temperature, Allowing You to Enjoy a Comfortable Swimming Experience Even in the Cooler Months.
- EASY TO OPERATE: The 11KW 220V Pool Heater Has A Mechanically Coordinated Thermostat Switch That Makes it Easy To Set and Maintain The Ideal Water Temperature. The Intelligent Control System Automatically Starts and Stops The Heater According To The Water Temperature, Saving Energy and Regulating The Water Temperature.
- VERSATILE USE: Whether You Are Heating An Above Ground Pool, Indoor Spa Or Jaacuzzi, This 11KW 220V Electric Swimming Pool Heater is Suitable for Pools With a Capacity of Up to Approximately 1000 Gallons.
- ANTI-DRY BURN: The Swimming Pool Heater is Equipped With A Pressure Switch That Protects It From the Danger Of Dry Burning. We Will Come With English Installation and Instruction Manual, if You Feel Confused You Can Hire a Licensed Electrician to Solve the Installation for Your Home. Please Follow the Instructions Strictly To Install The Wiring Before Installation
$298.78
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SaleBestseller No. 6
Intex Above-Ground Swimming Pool, Rectangular Frame 8.5ft x 26in, Ages 6 and Up
- SUMMERTIME FUN: Escape the summer heat and help keep your little ones cool with the Intex Rectangular Frame Baby Pool. Great outdoor fun for ages 6 and up
- DESIGN: Easy to assemble, ready for water in 30 minutes; Supported by strong, durable steel frames which are powder-coated for rust resistance and beauty; Rust-resistant frame keeps pool sturdy through many afternoons of splashing
- CONVENIENT DRAINING: Convenient drain plug connects to garden hose so water can be drained away from pool or house area
- INCLUDES: Swimming pool and set up instructions for help with set up and maintenance; Pump, filter, cover, and ladder are not included
- SPECIFICATIONS: Material: Heavy-duty PVC and polyester 3-ply side walls; Ages: 6 and up; Color: Blue; Dimensions (L x W x H): 8.5 x 5.3 x 2.13 feet
Bestseller No. 7
Goplus Solar Pool Heater Above Ground, Inground Swimming Pool Dorm Heater with Rotatable Hose Connectors and Foldable Legs, Solar Powered Water Heating
- 【Enhanced Solar Absorption】 Equipped with a black coil, this water warmer allows it to capture and retain heat more effectively, boosting your pool's temperature by 5.4-7.2℉. The transparent dome cover not only maximizes sunlight penetration but also acts as a protective barrier to prevent heat loss.
- 【Flexible & Space-Saving Design】 Featuring foldable legs, you can easily adjust this solar heater's angle to capture the optimal amount of sunlight throughout the day. Plus, the wider legs ensure great stability. When the season changes, the 2 legs can be folded down to make storage compact, saving you valuable space.
- 【Versatile Connection Options】 This water heater includes 90° rotatable hose connectors, offering unparalleled flexibility for long and short hose connections. You can even connect up to 3 solar pool heaters in series to maximize heating power. We recommend pairing this solar water heater with a 1-2HP power pump (not included) with a flow rate of up to 16 GPM. It fits joints of 1½" and 1¼".
- 【Universal Pool Compatibility】 Whether you have an above-ground or in-ground swimming pool, this pool warmer is perfectly suited. When using this heater, ensure the pressure does not exceed 0.8 kPa with a daily air pressure of 35PSI for safe and efficient operation.
- 【Easy Setup & Complete Package】 In addition to the 2 hoses, this solar power heater also comes with 1 flat gasket, 1 thread nut hose, 1 sealing tape, 2 hose clamps and 2 hose reducers. Everything you need for a hassle-free setup is included in the package. Note: The package comes ready with one heater.
Bestseller No. 8
Mxmoonant SPA Heater, 18KW 220V Swimming Pool Heaters Hot Tub Water Thermostat with Touchscreeen for Above Ground Inground Pool, Spa, Bathtub
- [Automatic Circulating Heating]: The swimming pool heaters will cycle on and off based on the preset temperature. When the water temperature reaches or surpasses the preset level, the pool thermostat will automatically shut off. Conversely, if the temperature drops below the preset level, the pool thermostat will automatically turn on again.
- [Efficient Heating Tube]: The electric pool heater is equipped with 304 stainless steel heating tubes, which provides excellent thermal conductivity. This efficient heat transfer through the heating tubes speeds up heating times and lowers energy costs.
- [Touchscreen Display]: Compared to traditional temperature knobs, the upgraded touchscreen display on the 18KW pool heater improves visibility and control. The temperature is visually displayed and can be more accurately controlled with ease.
- [Professional Wiring Method]: Since a hot tubl heater is a high-powered machine, it is designed to be hardwired rather than plugged in. Therefore, it is important to have a licensed electrician handle the installation process. They can ensure your safety and proper wiring to maximize the efficiency and lifespan of your pool heater.
- [Notice]: 18KW Pool heaters are suitable for pools of around 2000 gallons. In addition, the heating time of a pool heater depends on various factors such as the size of the pool, the desired temperature increase, the power of the pool heaters, and the ambient temperature.
$399.00
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Bestseller No. 9
LINGLONGTEMP 240V 3000W Submersible, Immersion Hot Tub & Swimming Pool Electric immersion Water Heater, with Temp Control and GFCI for Baptistry, baptismal Pools, above ground pool and inflatable pool
- Precise Temperature Control: The Temperature Control panel is user-friendly and equipped with a corrosion-resistant, highly sensitive temperature sensor. Submerged in liquid, the thermostat Portable heater can precisely maintain the temperature within ±0.1°C, Long press SET for more than 3 seconds when the LED display blinks set your desired temperature, press the up and down buttons to increase or decrease the temperature, regular state press SET can be freely switched Fahrenheit degrees Celsius unit switching.
- GFCI Leakage Protection: With built-in GFCI leakage and overload protection, our 316 Stainless Steel Portable Portable Fully Submersible Water Heater reduces the risk of electrical leaks and fires, greatly improving safety for you and your family. The rubber-insulated cable offers superior water insulation compared to others, with an added layer of protection to prevent accidents.
- Rapid Heating:This immersion pool heater features a sensitive heating sensor that starts warming water instantly. Constructed from corrosion-resistant 316 stainless steel, it ensures durability and long-term performance. Ideal for extended use, this submersible pool heater runs quietly and provides stable heating—making it a reliable choice for pools, bathtubs, and hot tub water heater applications.
- 100% Waterproof & Easy to Clean:The power cable is made from high-insulation rubber and wrapped in a silicone sleeve for added safety. This ensures long-term waterproof protection during full submersion. You can easily clean the silicone surface without damaging the inner cable, ensuring a longer service life for this portable electric pool heater.
- Corrosion-Resistant Materials:The heating sensor is crafted from food-grade 316 stainless steel, offering strong corrosion resistance, even in saline or chemical-rich liquids. The entire pool wand water heater is designed for extended underwater use in demanding environments—outperforming traditional 304 stainless steel heaters.
$208.39
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Bestseller No. 10
ECO POOLTECH EU50 Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pools Up to 5000gallons, Max16184BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pumps, 110V-120V/60Hz Plug-in Pool Warmer, High Efficiency
- [Extend Your Swim Season All Year] Extend your swim season affordably! This energy-efficient electric heater keeps your pool warm for family, kids, and pets year-round. With 16,000 BTU output and industry-leading COP up to 5.6, it delivers maximum warmth while using minimal electricity. Featuring premium compressors for reliable performance in various conditions, our low-maintenance solution maintains water comfort without straining your power bill. Sustainable heating made simple!
- [Peace of Mind- Reliable ETL Certification, Safe to use] Equipped with an ETL-approved GFCI leakage protection switch for safe operation.**Verified performance, no false claims **: As a responsible brand, ECO POOLTECH ensures all data is based on tested results, with no inflated claims.
- [Smart Temperature Control- Efficient Heating, Swim in warm] Built in flow sensor, which can automatically control the working time of the heater through the timing setting of the water pump. No further monitoring or timer setting is necessary. It can keep the ideal temperature, allowing you to swim for longer period without worrying about your energy bill.
- [High Efficiency Heating, Ideal for Above Ground Pools] The Pool heat pump EU50 is designed for above ground pools with up to 5000 gallons of water (No bigger than 15ft round or 9x18ft rectangular). This unit can operate at outdoor temperatures of 40ºF to 105 ºF, under optimal operating conditions the pool can be heated up to 100ºF.
- [Plug-in Pool Heater, Easy to Install] Comes with hose clamps, hose connectors, and an installation guide. Simply connect hoses and plug it in to use, no professional help needed.EASY OPERATION: Digital control panel with an easy-to-read display offers convenient temperature setting and monitoring.Also, equipped with additional soundproofing, it operates at a low 50dB noise level, allowing us to enjoy a peaceful experience
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.