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
- CLEAN AND GREEN: The FH270 is powered by clean electricity, reducing the harmful environmental effects and cost of traditional heaters that use natural gas or propane. Our pumps instead move heat from the air into the water, which saves you money and is a breeze to maintain
- COMPATIBLE WITH: In ground pools up to 15,000 gallons and above ground pools up to 27 foot round or 18 by 33 foot oval. As with all heat pumps, we recommend using in a humid climate down to 50 degrees for best performance. Dry climates are better served by a traditional gas heater
- HIGH EFFICIENCY: Utilizing high-pressure differential compressors and titanium heat exchangers, FibroPool heat pumps are meticulously designed to be the most energy efficient in their class. You can rest comfortably knowing your family will enjoy years of late season swimming without feeling a squeeze on your electric bill
- RUGGED DESIGN: Enamel-coated steel chassis is designed to withstand outdoor elements season after season. Slim profile measures just 13"x38"x27", offering a wide range of mounting options. Conveniently installs with included 1 1/2 inch compression fittings on a 240 volt circuit
- EASY OPERATION: Digital control panel with an easy-to-read display offers convenient temperature setting and monitoring. Optional extension cable allows you to mount the control panel in a location that works best for you
- [A better way to extend the swimming season]: A warm pool for your kids, pets and the whole family! What you need is an efficient, low operating cost heating system - an ECOPOOLTECH pool heating pump for your pool that extends play for months!
- [Save Money]: Base on heat pump technology, the EU50 heat pump absorbs energy from the air and transfers it into the water. So the operation only requires very limited electric input, hence its high efficiency and heat conversion rate can reach a score of COP 5.6. In other words, for every cent of electricity spent, 5.6 times heat is generated!
- [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.
- [Easy to Install]:The pool heater EU50 allowing fast and easy hookup without professional installation. Just hook up several quick connectors, then plug and play. No need tools, no need plumber.
- [Built in flow sensor] The machine is equipped with a water flow sensor, which can automatically control the working time of the heater through the timing setting of the water pump.Pure titanium heat exchanger safe for salty water. Intelligent control system, easy to operate.
- Ideal Choice for Above Ground Pools - Pool heat pump is specially designed for above ground pools with up to 4700 gallons of water (No bigger than 16ft round or 10x20ft oval) Can operate at outdoor temperatures of 40ºF to 105 ºF, while the swimming pool can be heated up to 100ºF
- Easy and Simple to Install - The heat pump pool heater allowing fast & easy hookup without professional installation. Just hook up several quick connectors, then plug and play. No need professional tools. No need a plumber!!
- A Better Way to Extend Your Swim Season - Nothing beats a warm swimming pool for your kids and the whole family! What you’ll need is a highly efficient, low operating cost heating system an XtremepowerUS pool heat pump for your pool to extend the fun for a few more months!
- Superb Energy Saver - The pool heater is a heat pump specifically designed for swimming pools, not an gas or electric heater. The operation only requires very limited electric input, hence its high efficiency and heat conversion rate can reach a score of COP 5.9
- Powerful Compressor - The pool heat pump equipped with powerful compressor, outputs a capacity of 14500BTU/hr. The pure titanium heat exchanger can resist any corrosion from pool water. Intelligent control system maintains the pool temperature at a consistent level. Once it starts operating, you don’t need to adjust any settings, just enjoy a warm and heated swimming pool!
- CLEAN AND GREEN: The FH135 is powered by clean electricity, reducing the harmful environmental effects and cost of traditional heaters that use natural gas or propane. Our pumps instead move heat from the air into the water, which saves you money and is a breeze to maintain
- COMPATIBLE WITH: In ground pools up to 7,500 gallons and above ground pools up to 18 foot round or 12 by 24 foot oval. As with all heat pumps, we recommend using in a humid climate down to 50 degrees for best performance. Dry climates are better served by a traditional gas heater
- HIGH EFFICIENCY: Utilizing high-pressure differential compressors and titanium heat exchangers, FibroPool heat pumps are meticulously designed to be the most energy efficient in their class. You can rest comfortably knowing your family will enjoy years of late season swimming without feeling a squeeze on your electric bill
- RUGGED DESIGN: Enamel-coated steel chassis is designed to withstand outdoor elements season after season. Slim profile measures just 16"x40"x24", offering a wide range of mounting options. Conveniently installs with included 1 1/2 inch compression fittings
- EASY OPERATION: Digital control panel with an easy-to-read display offers convenient temperature setting and monitoring. Optional extension cable allows you to mount the control panel in a location that works best for you
- [Extend Your Swim Season]: Designed specifically for heating aboveground swimming pools and small inground pools. The PLC70 heater can operate within the range of ambient temperature from 30F to 100F, and can heat the water temperature to 105F, making it an ideal choice for extending the swimming pool season for months.
- [Save Money]: Base on heat pump technology, the PLC70 heat pump absorbs energy from the air molecules and transfers it into the water. So the operation only requires very limited electric input, hence its high efficiency and heat conversion rate can reach a score of COP 4.7. In other words, for every cent of electricity spent, 4.7 times heat is generated!
- [Ideal for Above Ground Pools] Max output 22462 BTU/hr, the Pool heat pump PLC70 is Ideal for Above Ground Pools with up to 6000 gallons of water. (Please refer to the temperature map of the United States to chose the appropriate model).
- [Easy Operation] The intelligent control IC automatically maintains the swimming pool at your desired temperature. Once it starts running, you don't need to adjust any settings, just enjoy a warm and comfortable swimming pool.
- [Built in flow sensor] The machine is equipped with a water flow sensor, which can automatically control the working time of the heater through the timing setting of the water pump.
- Exclusive Dura-Steel Powder - Coated Cabinet - Same rugged steel construction used by all the major air conditioner manufacturers. Fully louvered steel jacket protects the evaporation coil from storm debris, hail and harsh weather.
- Extremely Tough Composite Base - Rust proof and ultra sound deading base material keeps your heat pump up and running for years while holding sound levels to an absolute minimum.
- Scroll Compressor - Scroll compressors are quiet and efficient compared to piston type compressors. They provide higher efficiency, lower sound levels, superior durability and unsurpassed reliability.
- Spiral Titanium Tube - The spiral titanium tube heat exchanger provides a corrosion-free waterway that can withstand the abuses of harsh pool chemistry. The spiral tube helps reduce deposit build-up and increases efficiency by performing a “scoop-and-lift” action.
- Plumbing Connections Off-set 2” PVC union connections.
- BEST FOR: In-ground pools that are used regularly and benefit from maintaining an ideal consistent temperature. Non-corrosive design makes it durable for coastal climates.
- ECONOMICAL HEATING: Using the surrounding air to heat the pool, HeatPro is more economical than propane, natural gas and electric heaters for maintaining the ideal water temperature.
- UNPARALLELED DURABILITY: Ultra Gold corrosion-resistant technology provides unparalleled durability, even in harsh coastal environments.
- CORROSION RESISTANT: Titanium heat exchanger ensures maximum heat transfer and provides excellent salt water and chemical corrosion resistance. UV-resistant body panels are impervious to corrosion and deterioration
- TRUSTED BRAND: With over 80 years of experience, Hayward is an industry leader in manufacturing advanced pool equipment.
- [A better way to extend the swimming season]: A warm pool for your kids, pets and the whole family! What you need is an efficient, low operating cost heating system - an ECOPOOLTECH pool heating pump for your pool that extends play for months!
- [Save Money]: Base on heat pump technology, the EU50 heat pump absorbs energy from the air and transfers it into the water. So the operation only requires very limited electric input, hence its high efficiency and heat conversion rate can reach a score of COP 5.6. In other words, for every cent of electricity spent, 5.6 times heat is generated!
- [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.
- [Easy to Install]:The pool heater EU50 allowing fast and easy hookup without professional installation. Just hook up several quick connectors, then plug and play. No need tools, no need plumber.
- [Built in flow sensor] The machine is equipped with a water flow sensor, which can automatically control the working time of the heater through the timing setting of the water pump.Pure titanium heat exchanger safe for salty water. Intelligent control system, easy to operate.
- ♨️ 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.
- Swimming Pool Heat Pump: This electric pool heater is suitable for small above-ground pools up to 6600 gallons and in-ground pools up to 4,226 gallons. (Please read item description for more details as reference). It's your perfect heat pump solution for above ground and inground swimming pools with 2 inch/50mm water hose connection.
- Efficiency and Easy to Installation: Allowing fast and easy hookup without professional installation. With innovative flat-tube titanium heat exchanger, the heat exchanging efficiency is 30% higher than spiral tubes.
- Unique Design: Efficient rotary compressor and low-noise fan guarantee extremely quiet operation. Galvanized steel body panels with cute and graceful design are impervious to rust and deterioration. The setting water temperature is available on digital LED display.
- Premium Security: Available with child lock. Advanced protection system with auto electrical-leakage and low-voltage switch, high and low-temperature, and compressor discharge over-high protection.
- Working Requirements: 110volts, 60 HZ for USA electricity. Built in 11.5 foot long power cable with standard USA plug, if there is any cofused about the plug, please contact us in time. We will always here to help you..
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.