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Extend Your Swim Season: The Best Pool Heaters in 2024

Updated: Apr 2

Pool heaters extend your swimming season, enhance enjoyment in cooler weather, and add property value. The main types are gas, electric, and solar. Gas heaters, powered by natural gas or propane, heat water quickly and efficiently, ideal for year-round use. Electric heaters, suitable for smaller pools or spas, are easy to install and operate but can be costly. Solar heaters, the most eco-friendly and cost-effective, may not suit all locations or weather conditions.


Considerations when buying include pool size, local climate, and budget. After extensive research and testing, we've identified top-performing, energy-efficient, and durable pool heaters.


hayward heater on amazon

If you are looking for a reliable and efficient pool heater, we highly recommend the Hayward Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool & Spa Heater.


Pros

✅ The heater has exceptional protection against corrosion and premature failure caused by unbalanced water chemistry.

✅ It offers fast heating performance, so you can spend less time waiting and more time swimming.

✅ The low NOx emissions make it an environmentally-friendly option for pools and spas located where low-NOx emissions are required.

Cons

❌ The heater is quite heavy and may require professional installation.

❌ The price point may be higher than other pool heaters on the market.

❌ The heater may not be suitable for pools and spas larger than 400 ft.


We recently installed this heater for our in-ground pool and have been extremely satisfied with its performance. The installation process was quite easy, and the intuitive front control panel provides easy operation, service, and maintenance. The heater offers premium heating performance and has reduced our circulation pump run time, resulting in energy savings.


The corrosion protection feature is also a huge plus, as it ensures that the heater will last for years to come. Additionally, the low NOx emissions make it an ideal option for those who are environmentally conscious.


Overall, we highly recommend the Hayward Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool & Spa Heater for those in need of a reliable and efficient pool heater.


pentair pool heater on amazon

If you're looking for a compact, efficient pool heater that's easy to use and reliable, the Pentair EC462025 MasterTemp Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater is a great choice.


Pros

✅ The compact design is perfect for smaller pools up to 15,000 gallons.

✅ The 82-percent efficiency rating means you'll save money on energy costs.

✅ The user-friendly design makes it easy to operate and monitor.


Cons

❌ Some customers have reported issues with the heater arriving damaged.

❌ There have been a few reports of the heater not working properly after a short period of time.

❌ It's a bit pricey compared to other pool heaters on the market.


We recently had the chance to try out the Pentair EC462025 MasterTemp Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater, and we were impressed with its performance. The compact design makes it easy to install, and we were able to warm up our small pool in no time.


We appreciated the rotating digital display, which allowed us to install the heater in any orientation. The user-friendly indicator lights made it easy to monitor the system, and we had no trouble adjusting the temperature to our liking.


One thing we noticed right away was how quiet the heater is. We were able to enjoy our pool without any distracting noise from the heater. We also appreciated the safety features, which gave us peace of mind knowing that the heater wouldn't overheat and was easy to shut off when servicing was needed.


Overall, we would definitely recommend the Pentair EC462025 MasterTemp Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater to anyone looking for an efficient, reliable pool heater for a smaller pool. Just be aware that it's a bit pricey, and some customers have reported issues with the heater arriving damaged or not working properly after a short period of time.


black and decker pool heater on amazon

If you're looking for a highly energy-efficient pool heater that is easy to install and operate, the BLACK+DECKER Energy-Saving Pool Heat Pump is definitely worth considering.


Pros

✅ This swimming pool heat pump is ideal for up to 15,000 gallon inground and above ground pools. Corrosion resistant titanium pump design suits both fresh and salt water pools.

✅ Utilizing a microprocessor that automatically monitors its own performance to ensure maximum efficiency, the B+D Energy Saving Heat Pump is designed to be highly energy efficient and save you money on energy costs.

✅ Easy installation, quiet motor, and a user-friendly interface with easy-to-read LED indicators make this heat pump easy to control for optimal use year round.


Cons

❌ The price point may be a bit higher than some other pool heaters on the market.

❌ Some users may find the size of the unit to be a bit larger than expected.

❌ The heat pump may not be suitable for larger pools or those in extremely cold climates.


We recently installed the BLACK+DECKER Energy-Saving Pool Heat Pump on our 10,000 gallon inground pool and have been very impressed with its performance. The installation process was straightforward, and we were up and running in no time. The unit operates quietly and efficiently, and we've already noticed a significant drop in our energy bills since switching to this heat pump.


One of the standout features of this pool heater is its energy efficiency. With a Coefficient of Performance (C.O.P.) of 6.4, it's one of the most efficient pool heaters on the market, which means you'll save money on your energy bills over time. The microprocessor also helps to ensure maximum efficiency by monitoring the unit's performance and making adjustments as needed.


The user-friendly interface is another plus. The LED indicators make it easy to adjust the temperature and monitor the unit's performance, and the controls are intuitive and easy to use. We also appreciate the corrosion-resistant titanium design, which is suitable for both fresh and salt water pools.


Overall, we highly recommend the BLACK+DECKER Energy-Saving Pool Heat Pump for anyone looking for an efficient, easy-to-use pool heater that will save you money on your energy bills over time.


ecosmart pool heater on amazon

If you're looking for an efficient and reliable pool heater, the EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 Electric Tankless Pool Heater is definitely worth considering.


Pros

✅ Flow activation technology reduces the risk of burned elements, increasing longevity and reliability.

✅ Digital thermostat control allows precise temperature setting.

✅ Compact design makes it easy to install for both new and existing pools.


Cons

❌ Requires 2 x 8 AWG wire installation.

❌ Some users have reported issues with customer support and warranty coverage.

❌ Not suitable for larger pools over 18,000 gallons.


We recently installed the EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 Electric Tankless Pool Heater for our 15,000-gallon pool and have been impressed with its performance so far. The flow activation technology ensures that the heating elements are not burned, which means it should last longer than other pool heaters we've tried in the past. The digital thermostat control is also a great feature, allowing us to set the temperature exactly where we want it and forget about it.


Installation was relatively easy, although we did need to hire an electrician to install the 2 x 8 AWG wire required for the heater. Once installed, the compact design of the EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 Electric Tankless Pool Heater meant that it didn't take up too much space on our pool deck.


One thing to note is that the EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 Electric Tankless Pool Heater is not suitable for larger pools over 18,000 gallons. However, for smaller to medium-sized pools, we would definitely recommend this product. Just be aware that some users have reported issues with customer support and warranty coverage, so it's worth doing your research before making a purchase.


solar pool heater on amazon

We highly recommend the Sun2Solar XD1 Solar Powered Heaters for above-ground swimming pools. They are eco-friendly, easy to install, and cost-effective.


Pros

✅ The Sun2Solar XD1 Solar Powered Heaters warm up the water temperature and extend your swimming season with warm water.

✅ The included Bypass Kit allows you to divert water away from the pool on cooler days, ensuring maximum heat generation during sunny and warm days.

✅ The Sun2Solar XD1 Solar Powered Heaters are environmentally friendly and require no gas or electricity to function.


Cons

❌ The connectors should be better made, as the equipment is under pressure.

❌ The included hoses may be too short for some filters that attach to the side of the pool.

❌ Some customers have reported that the product did not warm up their pool at all.


The Sun2Solar XD1 Solar Powered Heaters are a great investment for anyone who wants to extend their swimming season without spending a fortune on electricity or gas. The heaters are easy to install and require no additional equipment or connections. Simply place the heaters on the ground near your pump where the most sunshine throughout the day is found, and you're good to go.


The Sun2Solar XD1 Solar Powered Heaters are designed to heat up 15,000 gallons of water, making them perfect for above-ground swimming pools. They are also aesthetically pleasing and space-saving compared to traditional solar panels.


Overall, the Sun2Solar XD1 Solar Powered Heaters are a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy their pool for longer without breaking the bank. They are environmentally friendly, easy to install, and cost-effective.


villastar pool hater on amazon

We would not recommend purchasing the Villastar Swimming Pool Heat Pump due to its low rating and negative reviews.


Pros

✅ High efficiency and energy-saving

✅ Easy to operate and install

✅ Suitable for small above-ground pools and underground pools


Cons

❌ Low rating and negative reviews

❌ Limited power input required for operation

❌ Only suitable for small pools


The Villastar Swimming Pool Heat Pump claims to be high efficiency and energy-saving, which is a plus for those looking to save money on their electric bills. It is also easy to operate and install, with multiple installation options available. This electric pool heater is suitable for small above-ground pools up to 10000 gallons and underground pools up to 9000 gallons, making it ideal for those with smaller pools.


However, we cannot ignore the low rating and negative reviews of this product. Customers have reported missing parts, damages to the product and the box it was delivered in, and poor customer service from both Villastar and Amazon. Additionally, the limited power input required for operation may not be sufficient for larger pools, and the product is only suitable for smaller pools.


In conclusion, we would not recommend purchasing the Villastar Swimming Pool Heat Pump due to its low rating and negative reviews. There are other pool heaters on the market with higher ratings and more positive reviews that may be a better investment for your pool.



pool heater

If you're looking for a reliable pool heater, the AYCHLG Pool Heater is a great option to consider.


Pros

✅ The manual reset temperature control switch helps prevent overheating and potential damage to the heater.

✅ The unique control system uses digital temperature sensors instead of mechanical sensors, reducing the risk of mechanical failure and prolonging the life of the circulation pumps.

✅ The intelligent self-diagnose function quickly alerts you to any issues, helping you avoid damage or malfunction.


Cons

❌ The heater requires 100 amp service, which may not be feasible for some homeowners.

❌ The heater is only suitable for small pools less than CBM, massage pools, and hot springs, so it may not be the best option for larger pools.

❌ The heater is not designed to heat sea water or salt water.


We recently installed the AYCHLG Pool Heater for our small backyard pool and have been impressed with its performance. The manual reset temperature control switch has given us peace of mind, as it ensures that the heater won't overheat and cause any damage. Additionally, the unique control system has helped reduce unnecessary circulation cycles, saving energy and prolonging the life of our circulation pumps.


However, we did have to upgrade our electrical service to accommodate the 100 amp requirement, which may not be feasible for everyone. Additionally, the heater is only suitable for smaller pools, so it may not be the best option for those with larger pools. Lastly, it's important to note that the heater is not designed for use with sea water or salt water.


Overall, we highly recommend the AYCHLG Pool Heater for those with small pools who are looking for a reliable and efficient heating option.


treela emmersion water heater on amazon

We recommend the Treela Immersion Water Heater for those looking for a portable heating solution for small containers.


Pros

✅ The Treela Immersion Water Heater heats up water quickly and efficiently.

✅ The automatic power off function ensures safety and peace of mind.

✅ It is easy to use and can be applied to various container sizes.


Cons

❌ The heater should be completely submerged in water during use, which may be inconvenient for some.

❌ It is not recommended for use in large pools.

❌ Continuous use for more than 3 hours is not recommended.


We were impressed with how fast the Treela Immersion Water Heater heated up 5 gallons of water in just a few minutes. The porous surface made of 304 stainless steel ensures reliable thermal conductivity, making it an efficient heating solution.


We also appreciated the automatic power off function, which turns off the heater when the water reaches 120 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring safety and preventing the risk of fire. The heater is easy to use - simply place it in a container, fill the container with water, and plug it into a properly grounded 120V AC outlet.


The Treela Immersion Water Heater is suitable for various container sizes, including portable bathtubs, ponds, sinks, buckets, and mini inflatable swimming pools. However, it is not recommended for use in large pools. For safety reasons, the heater should be completely submerged in water during use and not used continuously for more than 3 hours.


Overall, the Treela Immersion Water Heater is a dependable and efficient heating solution for small containers.


ecopool heater on amazon

If you are looking for a cost-effective pool heater that can keep your pool warm and extend your swim season, then the ECOPOOLTECH Pool Heat Pump is a great option.


Pros

✅ The inverter heating system adjusts the compressor speed and working frequency automatically, ensuring that the machine always operates at the best energy efficiency.

✅ The operation only requires very limited electric input, hence its high efficiency and heat conversion rate can reach a score of COP 5.5.

✅ The intelligent control IC automatically maintains the swimming pool at your desired temperature, making the operation easy for you.


Cons

❌ The EU100 pool heat pump is ideal for above ground pools with up to 10000 gallons of water, or in-ground pools up to 8000 gallons. You need to refer to the temperature map of the United States to choose the appropriate model.

❌ The product is manufactured in China, which may not be ideal for some buyers.

❌ The product is not yet well known, so it may be difficult to find reviews from other buyers.


We recently purchased the ECOPOOLTECH Pool Heat Pump for an above ground pool, and we were pleasantly surprised by its performance. The inverter heating system automatically adjusted the compressor speed and working frequency according to changes in water temperature, ensuring that the machine always operated at the best energy efficiency.


We were also impressed by the fact that the operation only required very limited electric input, making it a cost-effective option for us.


The intelligent control IC automatically maintained the swimming pool at our desired temperature, making the operation easy for us. We didn't need to adjust any settings once it started running, and we could just enjoy a warm and comfortable swimming pool. However, we did have to refer to the temperature map of the United States to choose the appropriate model for our pool.


Overall, we highly recommend the ECOPOOLTECH Pool Heat Pump for anyone looking for a cost-effective pool heater that can extend their swim season.


Buying Guide


When it comes to buying a pool heater, there are a few factors to consider to ensure that you choose the best product for your needs. In this section, we will discuss the key features to look at when making your decision.


Type of Heater


The first thing to consider is the type of heater you need. There are three main types: electric, gas, and solar. Electric heaters are the most affordable and easiest to install, but they can be expensive to operate. Gas heaters are more expensive upfront but are cheaper to operate. Solar heaters are the most energy-efficient but require a lot of sunlight to work effectively.


Size of Your Pool


The size of your pool is another important factor to consider. The larger your pool, the more powerful your heater will need to be. Make sure to choose a heater that is powerful enough to heat your entire pool.


Efficiency


Efficiency is another important factor to consider when choosing a pool heater. Look for a heater with a high efficiency rating to ensure that it will be cost-effective to operate.


Durability


Durability is also an important consideration. Look for a heater made from high-quality materials that will last for years to come.


Additional Features


Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. For example, some heaters come with a digital control panel, while others have a remote control. Some heaters are also designed to be more eco-friendly than others.

In summary, when choosing a pool heater, consider the type of heater, the size of your pool, efficiency, durability, and any additional features that may be important to you. By taking the time to choose the right product, you can ensure that you will be able to enjoy your pool all year round.

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