Water is much colder than you might expect. The temperature can vary depending on the season, the location, and the depth, but even in the middle of summer, the temperature of your pool water is likely to be around 68 F.
In order to enjoy your pool for swimming, you need to heat the water to at least 80 F, but most people prefer the water to be in the mid-to high 80s.
The type of pool you have and how you heat it will affect how much it costs to heat your pool water.
We researched dozens of the most popular pool heaters currently available, evaluating them based on effectiveness, longevity, and ease of installation and use. Our top pick, the Hayward ProSeries SP1515 15,000-BTU Pool Heater, is easy to install and ready to use right out of the box.
Here are the best pool heaters to keep your pool warm, comfortable, and ready for summer.
Best Swimming Pool Heat Pumps: Editor Recommended
Our Editor’s Best Swimming Pool Heat Pumps Reviews
- Extend Your Swimming Season: The TURBRO Beluga series pool heat pump is designed to maintain a consistent pool temperature, allowing you to enjoy swimming during cooler spring and fall days; please note that it is not intended to turn your pool into a hot tub
- Inverter Technology: The Beluga series features full DC inverter compressor; intelligently adjusts the heating power based on ambient temperature, water flow, and set temperature to ensure a stable water temperature
- Cost-Saving Choice: Harnesses heat from the air with a heating capacity of up to 75,000 BTU and a COP rating of up to 16.2; cuts costs by up to 40% compared to using natural gas and up to 70% compared to propane
- Tips for Use :TURBRO heat pumps perform most efficiently when outdoor temperatures are 60°F or above. As temperatures decrease, performance and efficiency may be affected and can also vary depending on the size of your pool. Using a swimming pool cover in colder weather can help retain heat and reduce the time needed to reach your desired temperature.
- For Variable Pools: Suitable for swimming or spa pools up to 21,100 gallons and a maximum size of 28.3-foot round or 20 by 40-foot oval; not recommended for inflatable pools due to low water pressure; features a titanium heat exchanger; corrosion resistant to chemicals and saltwater; compatible with seawater environments
- 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
- 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 55,000 BTU warmth in hours, perfect for large pools, up to 16,000-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 50 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.
- 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.
- Warm Your Pool Year-Round: Designed for pools up to 8000 gallons or 18 feet in diameter, this heat pump keeps your water at the perfect temperature, extending your swimming season and allowing you to swim longer.
- Efficient & Cost-Effective: The advanced inverter technology adjusts to the specific needs of your pool, optimizing energy usage and reducing operating costs while maintaining consistent warmth.
- Control from Anywhere: Manage your pool heater remotely with the WiFi-enabled app. Set schedules, adjust the temperature, and monitor performance on the go for ultimate convenience.
- Long-Lasting Performance: Built with a corrosion-resistant titanium heat exchanger, this heat pump is designed to work effectively in saltwater pools, ensuring reliability and efficiency over time.
- Built for Harsh Weather: Constructed from galvanized steel and equipped with an evaporator shield, this heat pump is protected against harsh weather conditions, providing consistent operation year-round.
- Large Heating Capacity: 35000 BTU high-efficiency heating system designed specifically for 8-24ft (12000 gallon) above ground or inground pools.Corrosion-resistant titanium heat exchanger efficiently heats filtered saltwater
- Extend the Swimming Season : Designed for above ground pools, the micoe pool heater operates in 32°F to 109°F and heats water to 104°F under optimal conditions, extending your pool season through early spring and late fall
- Smart Control: Adjust temperature and schedule heating/cooling via control panel or app. For optimal pool temperature, start 12 hours in advance. Heating range: 46-104°F; Cooling range: 45-82°F. Features auto-defrost function
- Energy-Saving Professional: Harnessing a advanced Mitsubishi compressor and a corrosion-resistant titanium heat exchanger, our air-source pool heater delivers 50% faster heating while reducing your energy costs by 40%
- Quiet Operation : Maintains peaceful family swim time with near-silent 52dB noise level，the pool heaters for inground pools ensure zero disturbance for you and your children even at night
- 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
- ♨️ Full Frequency Conversion Design: WOPOLTOP 30KW pool type heat pump is suitable for both above ground and underground water pools, with a recommended maximum pool capacity of 26000 gallons. The compressor and fan adopt frequency conversion technology to minimize power consumption and eliminate the need for frequent on/off cycles, thereby saving energy.
- ♨️ Advanced Compressor: Equipped with high-quality compressors, the 100000 BTU heat pump can provide excellent heating power in different working conditions, with a COP of up to 6.8, ensuring first-class performance and stability. The fully DC variable frequency fan motor and compressor can adjust the heating capacity within the maximum range, achieving the most efficient operation.
- ♨️ WiFi Control for Heating and Cooling: The heat pump has a dual function of heating and cooling, and the wireless WiFi control function allows for remote and complete control of the heating system of the swimming pool. Seamless adjustment of settings and monitoring of temperature levels through smartphones or tablets brings you endless convenience and peace of mind.
- ♨️ Noise Reduction and Vibration Reduction Design: The high-quality compressor adopts anti vibration technology, and the set includes four sound insulation pads supported by sound insulation materials. All connection points are equipped with additional sound insulation materials, effectively reducing vibration and damping noise. Maintain a noise level of around 47~58 decibels within a distance of approximately 1 meter.
- ♨️ High Quality ABS Material: The casing of the WOPOLTOP heat pump is made of high-quality ABS material, ensuring high corrosion resistance, rust resistance, durability, and lightweight. It can withstand outdoor conditions such as sunlight and rain well (attention should be paid to preventing lightning strikes), effectively extending the service life of the equipment.
- 【Extend Your Swim Season】This full-inverter pool heater is designed to maintain comfortable water temperatures across varying weather conditions, helping extend your swim season into early spring and late autumn. Precision control ensures stable and efficient water heating for hot tubs and swimming pools.
- 【Efficient Heating & APP Control】 Built for reliable and fast temperature rise, this unit supports pools up to 25,000 gallons. Adjust temperature settings, set schedules, and manage operation through the integrated app or control panel for convenient, remote pool-side management.
- 【Full Inverter Energy-Saving Technology】Equipped with a full DC inverter compressor, the system intelligently adjusts output according to ambient temperature and water flow. This maintains steady heating performance while helping reduce overall energy consumption.
- 【Low-Noise Operation & Cold-Weather Support】Operating at just 41 dB, the heater ensures quiet performance around your pool area. Its advanced low-temperature operation support helps maintain consistent heating during cooler seasons for uninterrupted use.
- 【Reliable Warranty & Dedicated Support】We provide a 3-year warranty along with professional 24/7 customer assistance. If you ever need help, our support team is ready to ensure your pool heater continues delivering dependable performance year-round.
- Compact Yet Strong: Newly designed to reduce size and weight while still efficiently heating pools up to 7,000 gallons, ideal for in-ground and above-ground use.
- Built-in WiFi Control: Connects to Smart Life App, allowing you to remotely schedule and manage heating anytime, anywhere with your smartphone.
- Cold Climate Ready: Continues working in ambient temperatures as low as 25℉, letting you enjoy up to 10 months of comfortable swimming.
- Safety in Mind: Isolated heat exchange path ensures no direct contact between electric parts and water; equipped with leakage protection plug.
- Helpful Reminder: Use a pool cover during heating sessions to prevent heat loss. The maximum flow rate for best heating efficiency is 1500 GPH.
Best Swimming Pool Heat Pumps Buying Guide
Before choosing the best swimming pool heat pump you should consider the following options:
1. Power Consumption: One of the most important aspects to consider when buying a swimming pool heat pump is power consumption.
The higher the power consumption, the higher your electricity bills will be. The ideal pool heat pump will have a low power consumption so that your bills don’t go up.
In general, the more efficient the heat pump, the higher the annual operating cost. This is because the energy is extracted from the surrounding environment, which has a low temperature, and therefore requires more energy input to heat the pool water.
You can find the power consumption of a heat pump in two ways. First is the energy efficiency ratio (EER). The higher the EER, the lower the operating cost.
The second way is the input rate measure (IM). The lower the IM, the lower the operating cost.
For example, if a heat pump has an EER of 8 and an IM of 1.8, then the operating cost will be half that of a heat pump with an EER of 10 and an IM of 2.0.
The higher the EER or IM, the lower the operating cost. Therefore, the ideal heat pump will have a low EER and IM.
Things to note:
The EER is calculated based on the pool water temperature of 35 degrees Celsius and the air temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. Therefore, the EER is different from the energy efficiency label (EFL) on the heat pump.
The input rate measure is calculated based on the water temperature of 20 degrees Celsius and the air temperature of 30 degrees Celsius. Therefore, the IM is different from the energy label on the heat pump.
The EER and IM are calculated based on the standard operation mode of the heat pump, and therefore, the real energy consumption will be higher than the standard operation.
2. Capacity: You need to purchase a heat pump that can meet the temperature requirements of your swimming pool. The ideal heat pump will have a large capacity so that it can heat the water in a short period of time.
The larger the capacity, the higher the energy input and operating cost. Therefore, you should purchase a heat pump with a capacity that meets your needs but doesn’t exceed them.
What else you should know about the best swimming pool heat pumps
1. What are the best swimming pool heat pumps?
Some of the best swimming pool heat pumps on the market include the Hayward HeatPro HP21104, the Pentair UltraTemp 70, and the Jandy LXi.
2. How do swimming pool heat pumps work?
A swimming pool heat pump is a device that uses the heat from the air to heat the water in a swimming pool. The heat pump consists of a compressor, a condenser, and an evaporator. The compressor pumps the refrigerant through the system. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the air and transfers it to the water. The water is then circulated through the pool.
3. How do I choose a swimming pool heat pump?
There are a few things you need to consider when choosing a swimming pool heat pump:
1. The size of your pool – you need to make sure the heat pump is powerful enough to heat your pool.
2. The climate you live in – heat pumps work best in warmer climates.
3. Your budget – heat pumps can be expensive, so you need to make sure you can afford the one you want.
4. How do I install a swimming pool heat pump?
Most swimming pool heat pumps come with easy-to-follow installation instructions. In general, you will need to install the heat pump near your pool, connect it to a power source, and then connect it to your pool’s filtration system.
5. How do I maintain a swimming pool heat pump?
The best way to maintain a swimming pool heat pump is to regularly check and clean the filters, as well as the coils. You should also make sure that the pump is properly lubricated and that the unit is free of any debris.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best swimming pool heat pumps. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best swimming pool heat pumps will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.