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 18,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pools Up to 6,500 Gallons, Heating and Cooling Pool Heater 120V
- 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 6,500-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
Varpoolfaye 35100 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater 10000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater Pump Heating or Cooling Electric Pool Heater For Inground Pool WiFi Control Schedule 220V 60HZ
- Powerful Performance: With a high-pressure compressor, pool heater heat pump max output of 35100 BTU, a COP of 6.5, ideal for above ground or in-ground pools up to 10000 Gallons, 14/16/18/21/22/23/26 foot pool
- Year-Round Comfort: 220v pool heater with both heating (59°F-104°F) and cooling (45°F-86°F) modes, ensuring perfect water temperatures for every season
- Smart WiFi Control: Pool heater for above ground pool easily adjust temperature, schedule, and functions via WiFi using the app for seamless control of your pool
- Efficient and Quiet: Our pool heat pump operates by absorbing heat from the air and releasing it to the pool, with minimal electricity and works quietly at 53 dB, ensures a peaceful swimming experience
- 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
$1,399.99
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 3
FibroPool Swimming Pool Heat Pump - FH270 70,000 BTU - for Above and In Ground Pools and Spas - High Efficiency, All Electric Heater - No Natural Gas or Propane Needed
- 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
Bestseller No. 4
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. 5
ECOPOOLTECH Above Ground Pool Heater EU50, Max 16184BTU Up to 5000gallons Electric Swimming Pool Heat Pumps, Titanium Heat Exchanger, 5.62 COP, 110V/120V, Fits 8/11/15 Foot Pools Heating Pool Warmer
- [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 ECO POOLTECH pool heating pump for your pool that extends play for months! **Verified performance, no false claims **: As a responsible brand, ECO POOLTECH ensures all data is based on tested results, with no inflated claims.
- [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.
Bestseller No. 6
Vidapool 16,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pools Up to 6,000 Gallons,Heating and Cooling Pool Heater 120V
- Extend Swim Season: With advanced dual-mode technology, this heat pump maintains precise heating (41–104°F) and cooling (41–95°F) for consistent water temperatures, extending pool usability by 6 months while ensuring year-round enjoyment.
- High Performance Tech: Engineered with a 16,000 BTU heating unit, this system quickly heats pools up to 6,000 gallons with smart operation—reaching your desired temperature overnight. Designed for year-round reliability, it ensures consistent water warmth and comfort while saving you time.
- Great Energy Saving: This efficient heat pump uses advanced technology to deliver a 5.5 COP rating, cutting energy costs while maintaining consistent performance. It saves 70% more energy than traditional electric heaters and 40% compared to gas systems, making it the smart choice for year-round pool comfort.
- Quiet & Defrost: This heat pump uses quiet technology to keep noise levels between 38 dB—quieter than a normal conversation. Enjoy warm pool water without any noisy distractions.Its smart defrost system automatically melts ice buildup, so you never have to clean it manually.
- Easy Installation: This heat pump includes both 1.25" & 1.5" hose adapter and 1.5" conversion kits for quick setup. The control panel lets you adjust heating modes easily, while a 3-year warranty covers repairs and parts, plus free technical help is available for life.
$599.99
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 7
16184 BTU Pool Heater, for 6000 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 16,184 BTU/hr, it’s ideal for above-ground pools up to 6,000 gallons.
- 【Powerful & Efficient Heating 】- Featuring a high-performance compressor, our pool heat pump delivers a heating capacity of 16,184 BTU/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. 8
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
$27.80
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 9
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
$599.99
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 10
ECOPOOLTECH Swimming Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool up to 5000 Gallons, Max 16184 BTU, 5.62 COP, Titanium Heat Exchanger, 110V-120V, EU50
- [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 ECO POOLTECH pool heating pump for your pool that extends play for months! **Verified performance, no false claims **: As a responsible brand, ECO POOLTECH ensures all data is based on tested results, with no inflated claims.
- [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.
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.