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 5,000-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 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
WARMBLU H5 Swimming Pool Heat Pump 18,000BTU 5,000 Gal High Efficiency COP4.1 Energy Save 45% Above Smart WiFi Control 110V
- SpringBreath 1.0 Heating System with Quantifiable Results---Built to efficiently handle large pools up to 5,000 gallons. H5, centered on a corrosion-proof pure titanium heat exchanger, delivers an industry-leading the Max COP up to 4.1. This isn't just heating; it's high-efficiency engineering for rapid, reliable temperature rise.
- Drastically Cuts Energy Costs---Intelligent Chip and Dynamic Algorithm provide intelligent inverter control, constantly optimizing performance for unwavering reliability. The result is dramatically lower operating costs compared to gas or conventional electric heaters, maximizing your long-term investment.
- Ultimate Ease of Use & Installation---Simplicity from start to finish. Enjoy a worry-free, straightforward installation process, followed by effortless daily control via the intuitive mobile App or the sleek, modern touch panel at home. Total convenience is at your fingertips.
- Sub-50 dB Quiet Operation---Protect the tranquility of your property. With a noise level below 50 dB, its operation is quieter than the hum of a standard refrigerator. You'll get powerful heating without the disruptive noise, ensuring your backyard remains a peaceful retreat.
- Engineered Safety: Water & Electricity Fully Separated---Invest with absolute confidence. The core of our design is a fully isolated system that guarantees complete separation of water and electrical components. It's the failsafe, industrial-grade protection you require for total peace of mind.
Bestseller No. 3
AQUASTRONG Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump,Pool Heater for Above Ground and Inground Pool Heating Smart WiFi Control and Cooling Pool Heater Pools Up to, 9000 Gallons
- 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.
Bestseller No. 4
VARMINPOOL Electric Pool Heater, 30,000 BTU Pool Heat Pump for Above Ground Pools Up to 7000 Gallons, WiFi Control, 120V Titanium Heat Exchanger, V7 Plus
- Perfect Pool Heat Pump for Small Pools up to 7,000 Gallons: Designed for above ground pools and small backyard pools, this 30,000 BTU pool heat pump delivers efficient, consistent heating without overspending on oversized equipment. Ideal for inflatable pools, frame pools, and compact setups, giving you warm, comfortable water without unnecessary energy waste.
- 120V Plug & Play Pool Heater – No Professional Installation Needed: Skip the complicated wiring. This 120V electric pool heater runs on standard household power, making setup fast and easy. Simply connect to your existing pool system (recommended >1500 GPH pump) and start heating—perfect for homeowners who want a DIY-friendly pool heat pump. Backed by a responsive U.S.-based support team, help is available for setup, operation, and troubleshooting whenever needed.
- Energy-Efficient Heating to Reduce Electricity Costs: Save on energy bills compared to traditional electric pool heaters. This energy-efficient pool heat pump uses advanced heat exchange technology to deliver more heat with less power, making it a cost-effective solution for daily pool use and long swim seasons.
- Smart WiFi Control with Heating & Cooling Modes: Enjoy full control of your pool temperature anytime, anywhere. This WiFi pool heater allows you to adjust temperature, set schedules, and automate operation through your phone. With both heating and cooling modes, you can maintain the perfect water temperature in any season.
- Durable Titanium Heat Exchanger for Saltwater & Long-Term Use: Built for durability and reliability, this pool heat pump features a titanium heat exchanger, making it ideal for saltwater pools and resistant to corrosion. Combined with a weather-resistant galvanized steel housing, it ensures stable, long-lasting outdoor performance.
Bestseller No. 5
DoCred 17,060 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool up to 5,000 Gallons, Ultra Quiet 29-45 dB, 5.5 COP, 115V, Heating and Cooling Pool Heater
- Extended Swim Season with Heating & Cooling: Enjoy your pool from spring to fall with dual-mode temperature control. This heat pump efficiently warms water to a cozy 59–104°F for chilly days or actively cools it down to a refreshing 46.4°F during summer heat waves. By maintaining your desired temperature, it effectively extends your swimming season by up to 6 months
- Whisper-Quiet Operation: Experience true backyard tranquility. Unlike standard units that operate at 38-48 dB, our advanced compressor and optimized airflow design keep noise levels as low as 29–45 dB—quieter than a library. You can run it day or night without disturbing family, neighbors, or your peaceful outdoor ambiance. The intelligent auto-defrost function also ensures reliable performance in cooler weather without manual intervention
- Exceptional Energy Savings with 5.5 COP: Maximize your comfort while minimizing costs. With a high-performance 5.5 Coefficient of Performance (COP) , the Docred heat pump delivers powerful 17,060 BTU of heating output using minimal electricity. It consumes 40% less energy than conventional electric heaters and offers significant savings compared to gas alternatives, making it the eco-friendly and budget-smart choice for your home
- Rapid 10-Minute Setup & Certified Safety: Designed for the average homeowner, installation is a breeze. Simply connect the standard hoses, plug the unit into a standard 115V GFCI protected outlet, and you are ready to go. No expensive electrical work or professional installation is required. Your safety is our priority: the unit is cTUVus certified, ensuring it meets the highest North American safety standards
- Durable Performance for Above Ground Pools: Specifically engineered for pools up to 5,000 gallons, this compact unit packs a powerful punch. It efficiently transfers heat from ambient air for consistent performance. For faster heating, simply use a pool cover while it runs—it retains warmth and boosts efficiency. Backed by a robust build and a 3-year warranty, it’s the reliable all-in-one solution for heating and cooling your pool
Bestseller No. 6
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 110V 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, it achieves rapid and stable heating from 59-104°F and cooling 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
- Energy Efficient and Cost Effective : Our 120v pool heater achieving a COP of 4.3 is an energy-efficient heating system that works by extracting heat from the ambient air and transferring it to our fresh or salt water pool water, with minimal electricity, more cost-effective than gas or traditional electric heaters
- Quiet and Safe Operation: Equipped with additional soundproofing, above ground pool heater operates at a low 50dB noise level, allowing us to enjoy a peaceful swimming experience at home, also designed with water-electric separation for protecting our family
- Easy installation: Swimming pool heater comes with two DN32-38 mm connectors and a 118 inch power cord, making installation a breeze
Bestseller No. 7
Vidapool 12,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heater 7.5 COP Electric Pool Heat Pump for Above Ground and Inground Pools Heating and Cooling Smart WiFi Control Pools Up to,3000 Gallons
- High-Power Heating & Versatile Performance: Vidapool pool heater equipped with an upgraded high performance compressor and titanium heat exchanger, this heater efficiently heats both freshwater and saltwater pools. With a maximum output of 12,000 BTU, it reliably warms pools up to 3,000 gallons. It delivers fast, stable heating from 59–104°F and cooling from 46–82°F. The included 16.5ft GFCI plug makes it ideal for small above-ground pools.
- Smart Control Longer Swims:Engineered with integrated WiFi in its slim body,it brings full remote control to small pool owners. With both heating and cooling modes, it effectively extends your swimming season from early spring to late autumn. Simple app adjustments deliver consistent, comfortable water temperature, maximizing your pool enjoyment and quality of life all year round.
- High Efficiency & Ultra-Quiet Performance:Say goodbye to high electricity bills. The Vidapool pool heat pump delivers an impressive 5.5 COP, utilizing air-source technology to heat your pool with minimal power consumption. Running at only 36dB, it provides ultra-quiet operation, letting you enjoy your pool in peaceful comfort.
- Hassle‑Free Installation:Featuring 1.25" & 1.5" hose adapters plus a 1.5" conversion kit, this swimming pool heater fits most above-ground pools. Installation is quick and tool-free, allowing you to set it up manually with ease. Our dedicated support team is always ready to assist with any setup questions.
- Optimal Tips:To ensure your heat pump delivers peak performance and efficiency, please pay close attention to your pump’s flow rate. We recommend a minimum flow rate of 343 GPH. Excessively high flow may prevent water from fully absorbing heat, reducing efficiency. Using a pool cover will also help retain warmth and save energy. Our team is ready to assist with any further inquiries.
Bestseller No. 8
POOLTOHOT Pool Heater for Inground Pools and Above Ground Pool, 58000 BTU Electric Pool Heater Build-in Advanced Compressor from Japan for Heating and Cooling, Pool Heat Pump with Smart WiFi Control
- 【Premium Industrial-Grade Hardware】 Powered by top-tier compressor and valves form Japan, paired with an advanced titanium heat exchanger and high-performance R32 refrigerant, this pool heater delivers superior efficiency, stability, and long service life. It represents the ultimate in premium pool heating hardware!
- 【Year-Round Heating & Cooling】 Our pool heat pump delivers unmatched year-round comfort! Dual-mode system keeps water at 47–109°F for heating and 47–83°F for cooling, extending your swim season through all weather. It turns your backyard into a timeless luxury swimming paradise!
- 【Powerful & Rapid Heating】 Experience industry-leading fast heating that outperforms most models! Equipped with an DC brushless motor builded in Japan for high BTU output. It’s the most reliable and efficient heating solution you’ll ever own!
- 【Inverter Energy Saving】 Cut costs dramatically with top-tier inverter efficiency! Full DC variable frequency tech saves up to 70% energy vs traditional electric heaters and 40% higher efficiency than gas systems, delivering exceptional COP 15.8 performance. It’s your wisest economical choice!
- 【Smart WiFi APP Control】 Take full control with unprecedented smart convenience! Built-in WiFi lets you adjust temperature, set schedules, and monitor usage remotely via app, paired with an intuitive touch panel. Smart pool management has never been so easy and efficient!
Bestseller No. 9
TURBRO 50,000 BTU Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump, Up to 15,000 Gallons, Electric Pool Heater for in and Above-Ground Pools, WiFi Enabled, 15.90 COP, 220-240 V, IPX4-Waterproof, Beluga B50V
- 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: High efficiency with a titanium heat exchanger; heating capacity of up to 52,200 BTU and a COP rating of up to 15.9; harnesses heat from the air; cut 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: B50V suits swimming or spa pools up to 15,000 gallons (maximum size of 24.6-foot round or 30 by 20-foot oval); not recommended for inflatable pools due to low water pressure
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.