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
- [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.
- 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.
- 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
- Designed for High-Efficiency Pool Heating: Ideal for above ground pools up to 5,400 gallons or 14 feet in diameter, the pool heat pump delivers precise temperature regulation for sustained energy efficiency
- Dynamic Power Modulation: Smart inverter technology modulates power between 0-100%, optimizing energy consumption in response to fluctuating pool heating demands, allows energy cost reduced up to 40%
- Advanced Remote Monitoring: Integrated WiFi functionality enables remote control via mobile app, providing real-time performance adjustments, operation scheduling and system diagnostics
- High-Durability Titanium Heat Exchanger: Corrosion-resistant titanium spiral heat exchanger maximizes heat transfer efficiency while ensuring reliable performance in all water types, including saltwater environments
- Reinforced Weatherproofing: Galvanized steel casing and enhanced evaporator protection provide superior defense against harsh weather, extending system longevity and performance consistency
- 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
- Optimal performance: Max output of 16000 BTU and COP up to 4.3, Varpoolfaye pool heater pump can heat above or inground pool up to 5000 gallon. Stay comfortable with heating from 59-104°F and cooling from 46-82°F
- Dual mode and WiFi control: Electric above ground pool heater has both heating and cooling mode, providing versatility to adapt to various weather conditions. The WiFi connectivity allows you to set the heater details or timed on/off from anywhere at any time
- Low consumption: 120v pool heater utilizes a minimal amount of electricity to absorb heat from the surrounding air and transfer it to your pool water, effectively maintaining the desired water temperature and low electric bill
- Silent running: With a noise level of only 50dB, pool heater ensures a peaceful and relaxing swimming experience, allowing you to fully enjoy your time in and around the pool
- Easy setup: The Varpoolfaye pool heat pump comes with DN32-38 mm connector*2, a power cord, making installation quick and hassle-free. In case of any questions or concerns, refer to the user manual or online store for support
- The Hayward Universal H-Series 150,000 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
- 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.
- High-Performance Heating: Equipped with a high-pressure compressor, pool heater heat pump delivers up to 30000 BTU with a COP of 5.8, suitable for pools up to 8000 gallons, including 14-23 foot pools
- All-Season Comfort: 120v pool heater offers both heating (46°F-104°F) and cooling (46°F-82°F) modes, ensuring our pool stays at the perfect temperature all year round
- WiFi-Enabled Control, schedule: Inground pool heater easily manage your pool's temperature, schedule, and other settings through WiFi with the app, providing convenient, remote control for your pool anywhere
- Energy-Efficient and Quiet: Pool heat pump uses air-source technology to transfer heat to our pool with low electricity consumption, operating at a quiet 52 dB for a peaceful swimming atmosphere
- Reliable and Easy Setup: Built with a titanium heat exchanger for use in both freshwater and saltwater pools, pool heater includes 1.5 inch connectors and a 126 inch power cord for hassle-free setup
- Built to withstand various weather conditions, perfect solution for environments requiring efficiency, convenience and versatility.
- Intermittent spark ignition pilot safety controls. Pilot only comes on when there is a call for heat.
- Space-age material means the heater won't retain residual heat after it is turned off, allowing it to be installed without the use of costly metal heat sinks.
- Part Number: 009217 | Model Number: P-R266A-EN-C
- Gas powered and suitable for use with swimming pools and spas
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.