10 Best Pool Heaters in 2023
There are many brands of pool heaters in the market and it can be hard to know which one is best for your needs. In this article, we will explore some of the different types you can buy, what to look for when buying it and how those factors might impact your decision-making process.
Pool heaters are a great investment, especially in areas with four seasons or colder weather. There are several things you need to consider before purchasing it so please read on for honest reviews and advice to help you make the right decision and give you tips on picking them in 2023 for your backyard swimming experience. There is no shortage of reliable and efficient items in the market today, but you will also find a lot of options that might not be as good as they seem at first glance (Don’t worry, I’ll tell you which ones!). To avoid spending lots of money on a product that will leave you disappointed, I have prepared this guide to help you in your search for the best pool heaters available in the market:
- Hayward 150,000 BTU Pool Heater – Winner
- W3H200FDN Hayward Pool Heater 200 000 BTU – Value for money
- Hayward W3H250FDN Universal H-Series 250,000 – Best technical
- H250FDN 250,000 BTU Pool Heater by Hayward – Cheap
- 400,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool Heater by Hayward
- Hayward HeatPro Pool Heat Pump
- Raypak 266 Pool Heater
- Inverter swimming pool heat pump by Raypak
- Fibropool Fh120 Above Ground Swimming Pool Heat pump
- Fibropool fh055 In-Ground Swimming Pool Heater
1. Hayward 150,000 BTU Pool Heater
This is one of the best natural gas heaters because it is a heavy-duty, stainless steel pool heater designed to heat your pool quickly. This model features an energy-efficient variable-speed blower motor with variable speed control and makes the perfect addition to any inground pool. Its thermal efficiency is 82.70% and it covers a 400ft surface area.
Features:
- Premium Performance
- Covers 400 ft surface area
- Best for In-ground pools
- Energy saving
- Corrosion protection
- Cupro Nickel Heat Exchanger
The Hayward h150 pool heater is one of the best gas inground pool heaters in the market. Its stainless steel design makes it strong and durable while still making it attractive in any backyard or pool.
Technical Specifications
Product Dimensions | 33.3 x 32.8 x 30.6 inches |
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Item Weight | 150 pounds |
Manufacturer | Hayward |
ASIN | B07SQ2MDQG |
Item model number | W3H150FDN |
2. Hayward Pool Heater 200 000 BTU
The Hayward W3H200FDN Universal H-Series 200000 BTU pool heater is a powerful natural gas heater that comes with a built-in digital control panel to provide you with extra convenience and ease in operating the unit. The digital display helps you to monitor the water temperature inside the pool, and also allows you to set the desired water temperature for heating up your pool water.
Features:
- Surface coverage area up to 600 ft
- 200,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater
- Energy Savings
- User Friendly
- Premium Performance
This Hayward 200 BTU heater comes with a durable stainless steel swimming pool heat exchanger that is capable of handling large capacities of water in short periods of time as well as transferring heat effectively from the outdoor environment into your swimming pool. The 200000 BTU pool heater heating element is made of copper material which ensures optimal heat transfer even at low water temperatures. This means that this unit can be used in any season and it will effectively warm up your pool regardless of the weather conditions.
Technical Specifications
Product Dimensions | 33.3 x 32.8 x 30.6 inches |
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Item Weight | 161 pounds |
Manufacturer | Hayward |
ASIN | B07SS4G8ZW |
Item model number | W3H200FDN |
3. Hayward W3H250FDN Universal H-Series 250,000
The Hayward 250 pool heater is one of the most reliable and economical heaters on the market. A powerful, energy-efficient unit, provides both domestic and commercial pool owners with a variety of options to meet their needs. Tough enough for commercial use yet affordable enough for residential applications, the H-Series is available in sizes ranging from 115,000 BTUs to 500,000 BTUs including 300 000 BTUs.
Features:
- Easy to install and use
- Low impact on the environment
- 250,000 BTU
- 750 ft Coverage Area
- Corrosion prevention technology
- 83% Thermal Efficient
- Natural gas connection
- Spa heater
It uses a combination of gas and electric elements to produce heat. This allows you to use the most economical heating method for your specific requirements. Built with an insulated stainless steel cabinet, this unit is designed for years of reliable operation in a wide range of applications.
Technical Specifications
Product Dimensions | 33.3 x 32.8 x 30.6 inches |
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Item Weight | 171.3 pounds |
Manufacturer | Hayward |
ASIN | B07SV9516S |
Item model number | W3H250FDN |
4. H250FDN 250,000 BTU Pool Heater by Hayward
The Hayward H250FDN universal h-series pool and spa heater is the perfect energy-efficient heat source for your swimming pool or hot tub. This 250 000 BTU natural gas pool heater offers the perfect combination of power and efficiency in a low Nox model. A special feature about it is that it is easy to read digital function panel that simplifies your operating controls. With its high flow rate of 24 GPM and its extremely efficient fuel consumption, you will be able to lower your heating costs by up to 40%! The Hayward 250k heater offers all these features to ensure you enjoy hours of relaxation.
Features:
- Hydraulic Efficient and Reliable
- Polymer header
- Easy and Professional
- Environmental friendly
- Low Noise
- Spa Heater
The Hayward H250FDN Universal H-Series 250k BTU Pool and Spa Heater is the preferred choice of thousands of pool owners across America. Hayward engineers designed the Universal H-Series line with input from technical experts in the solar heating industry. Combine this experience with advanced manufacturing technology you have the most efficient pool and spa heaters in the world for residential and commercial use. The low NOx design lowers emissions, improves efficiency, and reduces replacement costs.
Technical Specifications
Product Dimensions | 29 x 28 x 24 inches |
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Item Weight | 165 pounds |
Manufacturer | Hayward |
ASIN | B002EL411M |
Item model number | H250FDN |
5. 400,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool Heater by Hayward
Hayward 400,000 pool heater offers a highly efficient and long-lasting water heating solution for swimming pools. It offers different selections that can be customized for your installation needs. Hayward’s line of heaters is designed with the consumer in mind with their benefits by using either solar power to heat your pool or natural gas power to heat your pool.
Features:
- 120v Pool Heater
- 1,200 ft Area Coverage
- 400,000 BTU
- Superior Hydraulic Performance and Reliability
- L.E.D. Digital Control Panel
Originally designed for commercial pools, Hayward’s high-performance 400,000 BTU natural gas pool heater is an ideal choice for most residential home swimming pools. It requires a 120v power source and can be set to automatically heat your pool water between 1,800 and 5,200 watts depending on the outside air temperature.
One of the 120v Heater’s most noticeable features is its compact design which allows it to fit in spaces as small as five feet by three feet. It also comes with simple push-button controls and has protective safety sensors that cut the system off should something be inserted into the pool casing. It is one of the best 400 000 BTU natural gas pool heaters. There is an option for 300 000 BTU also.
Technical Specification of Hayward h400fdn
Product Dimensions | 39.6 x 32.8 x 30.6 inches |
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Item Weight | 214 pounds |
Voltage | 120V |
Manufacturer | Hayward |
ASIN | B07SQ2MDQQ |
Item model number | W3H400FDN |
6. Hayward HeatPro Pool Heat Pump
Hayward offers legendary performance for your swimming pool with the HeatPro 140,000 BTU heat pump. Designed to serve above and in-ground pools, the HeatPro is an Energy Star-rated unit, so it’s eco-friendly and helps keep heating costs down. The tri-stream nozzle provides optimum performance while the auto start and stop system ensure you only pay when your pool is being heated. The variable speed fan keeps energy costs down while providing consistent circulation, while the variable speed pump helps prevent cavitation damage by adjusting flow according to your pool’s temperature changes
Features:
- Unparallel durability
- Ultra Gold corrosion-resistant
- Heavy duty
- Stainless steel hardware
- Titanium Heat Exchanger
The Hayward HeatPro 140,000 BTU pool heat pump for in-ground pools has a variable-speed compressor, which means that it can maintain precise temperature control of your pool, even if the weather is changing. The variable-speed compressor also uses less energy than a single-speed model and includes a high-efficiency rating. Its compact size allows for easy installation (it weighs only 320lbs.) and can be used for both residential and commercial pools
Technical Specifications
Product Dimensions | 40 x 31.5 x 50 inches |
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Item Weight | 150 Kilograms |
Manufacturer | Hayward |
ASIN | B07SS48CC7 |
Item model number | W3HP21404T |
7. Raypak 266 Pool Heater
Raypak Heaters are a reliable brand for heaters and have a variety of different heaters. In this blog, I will be writing about the Raypak 266 pool heater and its other variants. I will go into detail about the features, pros, and cons of this heater. The following blog has an informative review on the Raypak 266.
Features:
- Harsh weatherproof
- Durable high quality material
- Heavy duty
- Easy to install
- Last for longer years
- Value for money
Raypak Pool Heaters are products that are used to heat the swimming pool water. Raypak was launched in 1983 by Raypak Heater in response to the growing demand for high-quality, dependable, and efficient pool and spa heaters. This brand is universally recognized as the best value for your money. Nearly every RAYPAK product is designed and manufactured in the United States of America, resulting in superior reliability and quality.
Technical Specifications
BTU | 266,000 BTU |
Model | Raypak 266,000 BTU Digital Electronic Ignition Propane Heater |
Dimensions | 43 x 31 x 26.3 in |
Weight | 210 lbs |
Manufacturer | Raypak |
ASIN | B002MEQXDK |
Item model number | 009217 |
8. Raypak Crosswind 61,000 BTU Pool Heater
The Raypak Crosswind Electric Pool Heater is a great way to heat your pool. It can be installed in any location, and it will heat the water in your pool quickly and efficiently. The heater uses a special technology that allows it to heat water more effectively than other types. This means you will save money on energy bills while keeping your pool warm year-round.
Features:
- LCD Display Panel
- User Friendly
- 61,000 BTU
- Less sound
- Spiral titanium heat exchanger
The heater also comes with an automatic timer that allows you to set it up for specific times during the day or night. You can choose whether you want the water to be heated for a few hours in the morning, or all day long, or any other time period that works for you. This feature is especially useful if you have children who use the pool during school hours but don’t swim after school because they are busy doing homework or studying for tests. You can make sure they always have access to warm water when they need it most!
Technical Specs
Product Dimensions | 39 x 26 x 12 inches |
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Item Weight | 71 pounds |
Manufacturer | RAYPAK |
ASIN | B08MVDFTXS |
Item model number | 017741 |
9. Fibropool Fh120 Above Ground Swimming Pool Heat Pump
Fibropool fh120 above-ground swimming pool heat pump is a great option for your swimming pool. This device can be used to heat water and circulate it throughout the pool. You can use this device to keep your pool warm in the winter months and cool in the summer months. It is an environmentally friendly product that requires little energy while providing a lot of warmth. It is also applicable for Intex pools.
Fibropool Fh120 Pool Heater
Features:
- Sleek Design
- Weather Protection
- Gas-powered
- Energy Efficient
- 120 volt plug, 10 Ampere and 60 Hertz Frequency
- 7500 gallons capacity
- Titanium Pool Heat Exchanger
One of the best things about the Fibropool fh120 heater is that it allows you to enjoy the water regardless of the season. The unit is designed to heat up water quickly, so you will be able to enjoy a warm and cozy swim in no time at all. This 120v electrical pool heater is especially good for people who live in colder areas and want to swim year-round. You will find it easy to maintain your pool temperature with this device. This product comes with a built-in timer that makes it easy for you to set the temperature you want and not worry about constantly adjusting it as time goes on. All you have to do is set it up, and let your device do the work for you.
Technical Specs
Model Name | Fh120 |
Package Dimensions | 25 x 20 x 10 in |
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Item Weight | 33 Kilograms |
Manufacturer | FibroPool |
ASIN | B077TY67LT |
10. Fibropool FH055 in ground swimming pool heater
Fibropool fh055 in ground swimming pool heater is an energy-saving device that can heat your pool water quickly and efficiently during the cold months of the year. Just like any other energy-saving device, it comes with a few benefits and drawbacks that you should know about before making your decision. To help you make an informed choice, this short review will cover everything you need to know about the Fibropool fh055 in ground pool heater.
Features:
- 13’500 gallons Capacity
- Reliable, efficient, and affordable
- Can heat swimming pool up to 25 degrees
- 100% Titanium Pool Heat Exchanger
- 220 Voltage, 17 Ampere
- Digital Display and Controller
Fibropool fh055 pool heater is designed for indoor/outdoor use only. The fh055 heater comes with a built-in pump that circulates the pool water through the heater and returns it to your pool. This system provides a constant flow of warm water to your swimming pool, maintaining a constant temperature so you can enjoy your pool at any time of day or night. It also includes an optional timer that allows you to set the unit to turn on and off automatically. This versatility helps you save money on your energy bills by letting you enjoy your swimming pool while reducing your energy consumption. There is no doubt that it is a saltwater pool heater.
Technical Specs
Model Name | Fibropool fh055 |
Voltage | 230V |
Manufacturer | FibroPool |
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ASIN | B08BGCVKPP |
Why need a pool heat pump?
A pool heat pump is an essential component for any swimming pool, providing numerous benefits and serving as a valuable addition to your pool setup. Here are some key reasons why you might need a pool heat pump:
Extended Swimming Season:
With a pool heat pump, you can extend your swimming season beyond the typical summer months. By efficiently heating the pool water, you can enjoy your pool earlier in the spring and later in the fall when the weather is cooler.
Comfortable Water Temperature:
A pool heat pump ensures that your pool water remains at a consistent and comfortable temperature. It eliminates the discomfort of entering cold water and provides an enjoyable swimming experience for you, your family, and your guests.
Energy Efficiency:
Pool heat pumps are known for their energy efficiency. They work by extracting heat from the surrounding air and transferring it to the pool water. This process consumes less energy compared to alternative heating methods such as gas heaters. As a result, you can enjoy warm water while minimizing energy consumption and reducing utility costs.
Environmental Friendliness:
Pool heat pumps have a minimal impact on the environment. They do not burn fossil fuels or emit harmful greenhouse gases during operation. By utilizing the heat present in the air, they provide a greener and more sustainable heating solution for your pool.
Cost Savings:
Although pool heat pumps have a higher upfront cost compared to some other heating systems, they can lead to significant long-term cost savings. The energy efficiency of heat pumps translates to lower monthly utility bills, helping you save money over time.
Versatility:
Pool heat pumps are suitable for various pool types, including in-ground and above-ground pools. They can also be used with spas or hot tubs, providing versatility for different pool setups.
Easy Installation and Operation:
Pool heat pumps are relatively easy to install and operate. They require minimal plumbing modifications and can be integrated into your existing pool system. Once installed, they are user-friendly and have intuitive controls for setting and maintaining the desired water temperature.
Quiet Operation:
Pool heat pumps operate quietly, ensuring a peaceful and relaxing environment around your pool. Unlike gas heaters that generate noise during operation, heat pumps produce minimal sound, allowing you to enjoy a tranquil poolside experience.
Durability and Longevity:
Pool heat pumps are designed to be durable and long-lasting. With proper maintenance and care, they can serve you for many years, providing reliable heating for your pool.
Value Addition:
Installing a pool heat pump can enhance the value of your property. Potential buyers may see a heated pool as a desirable feature, making your home more appealing and potentially increasing its market value.
Things to consider when selecting a heater for above-ground pools:
When shopping for a pool heater, there are many factors to consider in order to find the best model for your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Life span
One of the most important things to consider when choosing it is the life span. A longer-lasting heater will save you money in the long run, as well as increase your comfort level and enjoyment of your pool.
Most manufacturers offer at least a three-year warranty for their products, with some going as high as five years or beyond. This should give you peace of mind that if anything does go wrong with your heater within this time period (and it probably won’t), then it will be covered under warranty. If something breaks outside of normal wear and tear, such as internal damage caused by poor maintenance practices or misuse (such as leaving chemicals in the water too long), then replacing parts should be within reach even without any kind of extended warranty plan.
2. Eco-friendly
When you’re searching for the right above ground pool heater, it’s important to consider its impact on the environment. There are many different types of pool heaters to choose from, but some can be more environmentally friendly than others. For example:
- Solar: These rely on the sun’s energy to produce heat. While they’re not as efficient as other types of heaters, they have an established green reputation and tend to be less expensive (or free).
- Heat pump: This type uses electricity instead of gas or propane; so while it’s not completely renewable energy, it still has lower emissions than traditional models.
- Natural gas: This heats pools with natural gas instead of electricity; however it still produces greenhouse gases like CO2 and methane, just not directly in your backyard!
- Propane: If you want something that burns cleanly and doesn’t require additional maintenance beyond refilling your tank every now and again then this might be a good option for you (but don’t forget about other costs such as installation fees).
3. Price
The price of a pool heater can range from $500 to $2,000. The size and type of the heater will affect its price. The larger the pool, the more gallons of water it holds and thus a larger heater is needed to heat that amount of water.
The size and type of your pool’s particular pool pump also factors into how much you will have to spend on a heater. If you already have an existing pump for your swimming pool, check with local hardware stores or online retailers for recommendations on what types work best with that specific model. Your local installer should be able to offer some guidance as well when selecting an appropriate pump for your above ground swimming pool system as well as help determine if there are any additional costs associated with purchasing one at all (i.e., installation fees).
4. Easy to use
The best aboveground pool heaters are easy to use. You should be able to install and operate them with ease, as well as maintain them when necessary. They should also be easy to repair if something breaks down, such as a heating element or thermostat. When you are ready to upgrade your current heater or purchase a new one, consider how easy it will be for you and your family members to use the product once it is installed in your backyard.
The best aboveground pool heaters will also take up minimal space when they are stored away during the off season. If this is an important factor for you, research the available models so that finding one that suits these needs becomes much easier than choosing blindly without knowing what else is out there on market today!
5. Heater Capacity
You should also consider how many gallons of water your pool holds when choosing a heater. If your pool is small and holds only 100 gallons, then it does not matter as much if it has a large capacity or not. But if your pool holds 500 gallons or more then you should get a higher capacity unit because it will be cheaper in the long run because it will take longer for it to break down from overuse than if it were a lower capacity unit.
6. Size of pool
The size of your pool is an important factor when deciding on a heater. Smaller pools (up to 20 feet) can get away with a smaller and less expensive heater, while larger pools need more power to heat the water. You should also consider the depth of your pool. The deeper your pool is, the more heat it will require to keep it warm enough for swimming in the winter months.
7. Maintenance
The best above-ground pool heaters are easy to maintain and repair. All you have to do is drain the water from the pool heater and clean it out. If you have a gas heater, then you will have to check the propane tank for leaks and make sure that it is full. You also need to make sure that the gas line is not clogged or blocked.
If you have an electric heater, then you should clean out any leaves or debris that might be blocking the filter screens in the filter pump housing. You can also clean off any dirt or dust from around your pool heater if necessary.
8. Replacement Parts
Most above-ground pool heaters do not require replacement parts very often, but when they do need them, it can be very expensive! This is why it’s important to take care of your pool heater so that it lasts as long as possible. In general, most above ground pool heaters will last anywhere from two years to five years with proper maintenance and care.
9. Warranty
A good warranty should cover parts, labor and service. A more expensive unit will probably have better-quality parts, but if you’re going for a budget option the warranty might be your best bet. The warranty should be at least 5 years for an above-ground pool heater. Some companies offer warranties as long as 10 years.
The length of time that the heater is covered by this warranty is also important. The longer your heater’s warranty period is, the more confident you can feel about purchasing it without worrying about paying extra down the road when something breaks or needs repair or replacement because it won’t cost you anything to do so.
Conclusion: Our Verdict
Pool heaters are a necessity to use when you have an inground pool. It is important to know what features should be present in a good quality model so that you can buy one that is not just efficient but also safe for your pool. The size of the heater, the material it covers, and heating capacity are some of the things you need to look into when choosing one. So, after reviewing all the pool heaters we believe Hayward 150,000 BTU is the best pool heater in 2023 because of its performance, quality and robustness.
Modern-day homeowners in Canada require a good, efficient pool heater for all-year-round use of their swimming pools. The market is flooded with a number of different heaters that vary greatly in terms of stability and price. If you are looking to buy a pool heater, there are a few things you should consider.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Heating a swimming pool is typically done either with heat pumps or a solar heating system. There are different options for the type of equipment and a number of decisions to be made when deciding how to heat it. The duration depends upon the size of the pool.
A swimming pool heat exchanger is a metal pipe that transfers the heat from the water to its surrounding using wood, natural gas, or propane for heating. The metal used for the construction of these pipes is usually stainless steel or aluminum that resists the corrosion caused by salt or chemicals. It is so named because it acts as an exchange of heat from one medium to another. This how a swimming pool heat pump work.
One of the most vital elements in a swimming pool is the heat exchanger. If it didn’t have a heat exchanger, it would be empty even on the hottest summer days. This heat exchanger is also called a heat pump and without it wouldn’t be able to warm up during cold and freezing temperatures. It is the best way to heat an indoor swimming pool
If you are wondering how many BTU you need to heat your pool, the most accurate thing you can do is measure your pool’s total surface area and its depth. Both of these things affect how much energy it takes to heat the water. The larger the pool, the more BTU you will need to make it comfortable.