Best Inground Pool Heater– Reviews & Buying Guide (2023)

When winter arrives, taking a dip in the pool seems like a real challenge. If you decide to do it, you expose yourself to severe hypothermia. We lived in this same situation in the past. Every time the weather got cold, the pool was practically useless.

However, everything changed when we installed our first above ground pool heater. Now, we can enjoy a relaxing warm water bath whenever we want. And you can do the same. You just need to learn how to choose the best above ground pool heater for you.

Today, we’ll give you some valuable tips to do it. Also, you’ll find a top 10 list with the best pool heaters for above ground pools on the market.

Best Inground Pool Heater Reviews

01 Sun2Solar Blue 10-Foot-by-16-Foot Square Solar Cover

Certainly, Sun2Solar keeps your pool water warm for longer. Its small air bubbles absorb the heat of the sun and then use it to heat your pool. Also, this blanket is completely transparent to let the sun rays pass through.

In additions, Sun2Solar prevents up to 95% of water evaporation. It also prevents dust, dry leaves, and other airborne contaminants from ending up in your pool water. Above all, this blanket is easy to install. A single 10X16-foot solar cover is sufficient for a small swimming pool. However, if your pool is too big, you’ll need two or three to cover the whole area.

Also, Sun2Solar is resistant to UV rays. So, it won’t dry out when exposed to direct sunlight.

We recommend Sun2Solar blanket because it’s light and easy to install. You just put the roll on the water and then you unroll it. It’s so light that it floats in the water without problems. In addition, you can leave it for days on the water without risk of damage. Neither the sun nor chlorine affect the plastic.

At first, we had doubts about the durability of this product, because it was too thin. However, we noticed the plastic was flexible that could withstand high pressure and tears without any issues. But, we recommend you to be careful so you don’t end up breaking the bubbles.

Sun2Solar is similar to Blue Wave NS480. Both blankets are made of transparent plastic. Also, both blankets use air bubbles to collect heat. However, Sun2Solar has a smaller area.

Specifications

Pros

• Cheap
• Easy to install
• Lightweight
• Durable and resistant
• You can cut it to size

Cons

• Too thin
• Strong plastic odor

Final Verdict

If you need a quick and inexpensive solution to cold pool water, try this. Sun2Solar is easy to install and the process only takes a few minutes. Also, it’s resistant to harsh chemicals and extreme weather conditions. Without a doubt, our number-one recommendation.

02 Hayward W3H400FDN Universal H-Series

If solar covers aren’t enough to keep the pool water warm, Hayward W3H400FDN is what you need. This device generates up to 400,000 BTUs of heat, which is enough for a big pool. Its durable heat exchangers are made of cupro nickel to better resist corrosion.

In addition, its polymer tubes reduce friction with water. So, the pump won’t have to work too hard to move a large volume of water. That way, energy consumption remains low all the time.

Also, the control panel is responsive and easy to use. Its internal memory can store different temperature configurations. This feature is useful during seasonal changes, when the temperature varies suddenly.

Certainly, this is by far the best above ground pool heater on the market. We love this unit because of its low energy consumption. However, it isn’t easy to install because it needs a nearby gas source to work. So, you’ll have to spend some extra money on copper tubes and valves to power your pool heater.

We also loved the control panel. You don’t need to apply too much pressure to get a response. So, there’s no risk of damaging the panel with frequent use.

Hayward W3H400FDN and Hayward W3H400FDP have similar features. In fact, both units have the same external appearance. However, W3H400FDN requires natural gas, while W3H400FDP requires propane. Additionally, Hayward W3H400FDN has a smaller vent pipe diameter of 6 inches.

Specifications

Pros

• Durable and resistant
• Powerful
• Easy to install
• Easy to use
• Silent
• Low CO emissions

Cons

• Expensive
• The input and output tubes may start leaking with time

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for quality, durability and excellent performance, Hayward W3H400FDN is an excellent choice. Certainly, this is the best water heater for big pools. Unlike solar heaters, this device lets you control the water temperature with accuracy.

03 Hayward W3HP21004T HeatPro

Maximum durability and performance. That’s what you’ll get from this pool heater. Hayward W3HP21004T can generate up to 90,000 BTUs of heat. So, it can increase the temperature of a large volume of water in just minutes.

Certainly, Hayward W3HP21004T is made to last forever. Its Ultra-Gold evaporator fin can withstand coastal weather and other extreme conditions. Also, its heat exchangers are made of titanium. This feature makes it more resistant to corrosion and high impacts.

Hayward W3HP21004T is also quiet. It has a compact acoustic cover that minimizes the noise from the compressor. So, you don’t need to spend too much money on acoustic insulation to guarantee your peace of mind.

We recommend this heater to people living in extremely cold areas. It increases water temperature fast. So, you don’t have to wait too long to get in the pool. In addition, it’s easy to use and you only need to press a couple of keys to set the correct temperature.

What we like most about Hayward W3HP21004T is its quiet operation. So, you can install it outdoors without fear of disturbing your neighbors with the noise. The external case is resistant to UV rays. So, it won’t degrade under direct sunlight.

Hayward W3HP21004T works the same way as FibroPool FH055. Both devices require electricity to work. Also, both use titanium exchangers for heat transfer. However, Hayward W3HP21004T can emit twice as much heat as most of its counterparts.

Specifications

Pros

• Quiet
• Powerful
• Superior durability
• Easy to install
• Resistant to chlorine and other harsh chemicals
• Easy to use

Cons

• Expensive
• It requires frequent maintenance to keep operational

Final Verdict

Hayward W3HP21004T is the ideal heater for those seeking superior performance and power. If the gas source is too far from your pool, this is definitely the best solution. It’s also energy efficient, so it won’t considerably increase your electricity expenses.

04 Blue Wave NS115 8-mil Solar Blanket

On a day of intense heat, Blue Wave NS115 can increase the pool water temperature up to 15º F. In addition, it’s lightweight and easy to install. Blue Wave NS115 also forms a protective layer over the water to prevent contamination. So, you won’t have to clean your pool too often.

Blue Wave NS115 uses air bubbles to retain heat from the sun. Then, those bubbles transfer that same heat to water. This solar blanket has an estimated useful life of three years. However, it can last longer with correct use.

It also reduces 95% of evaporation. So, the water level will remain stable at all time. In Addition, its eye-catching blue color keeps your pool looking good when not in use.

We like this solar blanket because it’s cheap and easy to install. If you don’t have too much money to spend on water heaters, you certainly need this. In addition, you can cut it to size to fit the dimensions of your pool.

Another feature we loved about this blanket is its long-lasting warranty. If your Blue Wave NS115 gets damaged before the first three years of use, you can get a new one for free. Also, it doesn’t pollute water when it degrades, which is a big pro.

At first glance, Blue Wave NS115 and InteXSolar cover are the same thing. Even the color is the same. However, Blue Wave NS115 has a superior area of 21X21 feet.

Specifications

Pros

• Lightweight
• You can cut it to size
• Easy to install
• Cheap
• Durable and resistant

Cons

• Too thin
• The air bubbles may explode with high temperatures

Final Verdict

If money is your biggest concern, Blue Wave NS115 is the cheap solution you need. With this blanket, your pool stays warm and protected all the time. Also, it’s easy to install and store.

05 InteXSolar Cover 18-ft

InteXSolar Cover is ideal for round pools up to 18 feet in diameter. It uses air bubbles to catch the sun’s heat and use it on your pool water. It’s also lightweight and easy to install. Also, it keeps the water clean and protected from dry leaves and debris.

Like other solar covers, this one prevents 95% of evaporation. So, you don’t have to spend too much water refilling your pool. InteXSolar Cover is made of plastic. It’s also flexible and resistant to UV rays and chlorine.

InteXSolar Cover isn’t as big as other blankets on the market. However, it does an excellent job. We like this cover because it’s flexible. So, you can extend it a little bit to completely cover the pool area.

In addition, it’s easy to store. You can roll it or fold it without problems. However, it’s recommended to dry it before doing so to prevent mold growth. The air bubbles are quite resistant and can withstand high pressure without exploding.

InteXSolar Cover is similar to Blue Wave NS115. However, this unit is slightly cheaper and its area is smaller.

Specifications

Pros

• Lightweight
• Easy to install
• Flexible
• Durable and resistant
• Cheap

Cons

• Not resistant to chlorine
• It may release plastic debris into the water

Final Verdict

Certainly, InteXSolar Cover 18-ft is the best blanket for small round pools. It’s also lightweight, flexible and easy to store. Best of all, it’s cheap. So, we highly recommend it to people on a low budget.

06 Blue Wave NS480 12-mil Solar Blanket

Being 12 millimeters thick, Blue Wave NS480 is more durable and resistant than other solar blankets on the market. It’s also transparent to permit passage of sun rays.

On a sunny day, Blue Wave NS480 can increase water temperature up to 15º F. Also, it reduces 95% of water evaporation. Unlike other blankets, this one has a 5-year warranty. So, you can get a new one for free in case of damage.

Blue Wave NS480 also keeps water clean and free of contaminants. So, it also helps you to reduce maintenance frequency.

Certainly, what we liked most about this unit was its long-lasting warranty. Most solar blankets on the market have only three years of warranty. However, this one gives you two more years, which is great.

Also, the material is good and resists chlorine and other harsh chemicals quite well. The temperature rise is also good in areas with intense sun. However, it isn’t the best cover for cold weathers.

Blue Wave NS480 and Blue Wave NS115 are essentially the same thing. Both with the same thickness and material. However, this model has a smaller area.

Specifications

Pros

• Durable and resistant
• Easy to install
• Easy to store
• You can cut it to size
• Cheap
• Lightweight

Cons

• Too flimsy
• The air bubbles may explode with high temperatures

Final Verdict

Blue Wave NS480 is another excellent option for people with little money. It’s also lightweight and easy to install. The plastic looks flimsy, but it can withstand harsh chemicals and high temperatures without problems.

07 Pentair 460736 MasterTemp

This device burns natural gas to generate up to 400,000 BTU of heat. Its cupro nickel heat exchangers are resistant to chlorine and other harsh chemicals. It’s also quiet. So, you won’t have to worry about annoying noises if you install it outdoors.

Its polymer tubes prevent friction between water and the surface. That way, the pump consumes less energy to move a high volume of water. The external case is also resistant to UV rays. So, it won’t degrade under direct sun exposure.

Pentair 460736 is also eco-friendly. It reduces CO and other toxic emissions. However, it’s recommended to have a good ventilation system if installed in closed spaces.

We certainly recommend this unit for homeowners with big pools. Those living in cold areas will also be satisfied with its performance. Pentair 460736 reaches its maximum temperature in a few hours. So, you don’t need to wait too long to notice the results.

Another feature that we love about Pentair 460736 is its compact size. You can easily store it in a small room without problems. But, make sure it has a good drainage and ventilation system to prevent damage.

It has the same features as Hayward W3H400FDN. Both have the same BTUs and their heat exchangers are made of cupro nickel. However, both heaters have completely different designs.

Specifications

Pros

• Powerful
• Silent
• Durable and resistant
• Low CO emissions
• Easy to install
• Easy to use

Cons

• Expensive
• Requires frequent maintenance

Final Verdict

If you’re living in a cold area and need more power to heat your pool, you need to try this. Pentair 460736 is as powerful as any top-quality heater on the market, but a lot cheaper. In addition, it’s safe for the environment because it reduces toxic emissions to a minimum level.

08 SmartPool S240U Pool Solar Heaters

SmartPool S240U is another eco-friendly solution for your pool. It uses black plastic panels to catch sunlight and generate heat. Small tubes pass through the panels to exchange heat. Then, the water pump of your pool drives the water through the tubes, increasing its temperature.

SmartPool S240U doesn’t increase the energy consumption of your home. Also, it can raise water temperature up to 10º F on a sunny day. All fittings, accessories and materials required for installation come included.

The supports of each panel are reinforced with fiberglass. Also, all panels have small vents to permit air flow. That way, wind damage is minimal.

We love this unit because it’s easy to install and doesn’t require electricity to work. Also, it can withstand extreme weather conditions without problems. The gap between vents lets the plastic to expand with high heat. That way, there’s no risk of cracking.

The installation process is quick and won’t take more than a couple hours. The instructions are clear and easy to understand. So, you don’t need to call an expert to install it.

SmartPool S240U works the same way as a solar blanket, absorbing heat from sunlight. However, its black panels are much more efficient, reaching higher temperatures.

Specifications

Pros

• Doesn’t require electricity
• Easy to install
• Easy to understand instructions
• Durable and resistant
• Eco-friendly

Cons

• Requires frequent maintenance
• The water tubes may get clogged over time

Final Verdict

If you don’t want to pay too much money for gas and electricity, this is another choice you should try. SmartPool S240U makes the most of the sun for your own benefit. Also, it’s easy to install and you don’t need fancy tools to do it.

09 Hayward W3H400FDP Universal H-Series

Hayward W3H400FDP burns propane to generate up to 400,000 BTU of heat. It’s also compact and easy to install. Its cupro nickel heat exchangers are resistant to chlorine and harsh chemicals. In addition, this material transmits heat better to increase the water temperature in less time.

The input and output tubes reduce friction with water. So, the pump doesn’t consume too much energy to move a large volume of water. The LED control panel is responsive and intuitive. You can also store different temperature configurations in its internal memory.

The external case is resistant to external agents and high heat. So, you water heater will stay well protected when installed outdoors. Hayward W3H400FDP is also eco-friendly by reducing emissions of CO and other toxic gases to minimum levels.

We were quite impressed with the excellent performance of this device. It reaches the preset temperature in a few hours. The control panel doesn’t have too many buttons, so it’s easy to use.

We also like Hayward W3H400FDP because of its low power consumption. You certainly won’t notice a big difference on your electricity bills. It also has a compact design, so you can install it in reduced spaces without problems.

Hayward W3H400FDP has the same performance as Hayward W3H400FDN. However, both use different fuels. Also, this model has a bigger vent pipe diameter of 8-inches.

Specifications

Pros

• Easy to install
• Low CO emissions
• Easy to use
• Durable and resistant
• Silent
• Powerful

Cons

• Expensive
• Requires frequent maintenance

Final Verdict

If your pool is big, you certainly need more power. Without a doubt, Hayward W3H400FDP can generate all the power you need to heat your pool. In addition, it’s compact and easy to install.

10 FibroPool FH055 In Ground Swimming Pool Heater

This electric heater can generate up to 55,000 BTUs of heat. In addition, it’s lightweight and easy to install. The installation process takes no more than 30 minutes. You just need a drill and a plumber wrench to get the job done. The instructions are also clear and easy to understand.

In addition, FibroPool FH055 uses a titanium heat exchanger for maximum performance. Titanium is also resistant to chlorine and harsh chemicals. Its metal external case is also weather-proof. So, you can install it outdoors without risk of damage.

The control panel is responsive and easy to use. You can remotely control all the main features of your heater by adding an extra accessory. FibroPool FH055 also meets the strict quality standards of the US Department of Energy.

We recommend this product due to its high durability and resistance. Its external case is solid and doesn’t deform with high impacts. In addition, it’s resistant to corrosion and UV rays. We also like this device because it’s easy to install. Its compression fittings allow inserting and removing the water pipes easily.

The design isn’t eye-catching. In fact, it looks like the condenser of a split AC unit. However, it’s compact and only occupies a small area of 16X40 inches. So, if the installation space is tight, you should buy this heater.

FibroPool FH055 works similarly to Hayward W3HP21004T. Also, both heaters use titanium heat exchangers. However, this model doesn’t generate as much heat as Hayward W3HP21004T.

Specifications

Pros

• Compact
• Easy to install
• Durable and resistant
• Sturdy design
• Suitable for smart homes
• Energy-efficient

Cons

• The paint coating may scratch so easily
• Its sharp edges may be dangerous for small kids

Final Verdict

If you need to reduce energy costs to minimum levels, FibroPool FH055 is the perfect solution for you. With a consumption of 25 cents per hour, this is the most energy-efficient alternative in today’s market. It’s also wireless-convertible and compatible with smart-home systems.

What Is The Best Above Ground Pool Heater – Buying Guide

Certainly, there’s nothing better than swimming in your own pool. However, if the water is too cold, the experience isn’t pleasant at all. If extreme cold weather turns your pool into an ice block, don’t worry. A pool heater is all you need to enjoy of warm water all the time. Here’s a buying guide to learn how to choose the best one for you.

BTUs

A BTU is a unit commonly used to measure the energy generated by heaters and refrigeration units. Simply put, 1 BTU is the amount of heat needed to increase 1º F in 1 lb of water.

In the case of pool water heaters, the unit that we usually read as BTU actually represents BTU per hour. So, the heater will take an hour to reach the preset water temperature.

Calculating the BTU required by your pool is simple. You only need to know the water volume in gallons of your pool. Then you have to multiply the density of water by the volume to calculate the total weight.

1 Gallon of water weighs exactly 8.32 lbs. So, to calculate the total weight of water in pounds, multiply the volume in gallons by 8.32. For example, for a pool of 7,000 gallons, the total weight of water is 8.32X7,000=58,240 lbs.

To calculate the required BTU, you must first know the rate of temperature rise per hour. For example, let’s suppose that we want to raise the water temperature 2º F per hour. The required BTU for this example would be 2X58,240=116,480 BTU.

Also, water heaters aren’t 100% efficient. In fact, most of them can only deliver 82% of their maximum power output. For example, a 400,000 BTU heater can only deliver 0.82X400,000=328,000 BTU. So, to calculate the real BTU, you have to divide the calculated value by 0.82. For this example would be 116,480/0.82=142,048.72 BTU.

Actually, an increase of 2º F per hour isn’t really considerable. In fact, you’ll barely notice the temperature difference. In fact, it will take almost 17 hours to increase 1º C the water temperature.

Material

When it comes to pool heaters, the material of the heat exchanger means everything. Usually, the heat exchanger is made up of a series of metal plates heated at high temperatures.

In the case of the electric heaters, these plates are connected to an electrical resistance. On gas powered units, the plates are in direct contact with a propane or natural gas flame.

In both cases, the plates must be resistant to rust and high temperatures. Also, the material must be an excellent heat conductor. In these cases, materials such as copper, cupro nickel and titanium are the best.

Stainless steel is also a good alternative. However, it isn’t as efficient at transmitting heat. So, the heater will need more time to reach the preset temperature.

In addition, the external case of the water heater must be resistant to high impacts and UV rays. In this case, stainless steel is the best choice. Galvanized metal is another excellent option. However, it’s recommended that it is at least 3mm thick. An additional coat of paint or thermoplastic will also increase the durability of the material.

Low noise

Water heaters usually need fans to dissipate heat and prevent fire. In these cases, the more powerful the unit, the more noise it will emit. So, if you plan to install your water heater outdoors, it isn’t recommended to choose something too big. Otherwise, the noise will disturb your neighbors.

If your pool is too big, it’s recommended to reserve a closed space for installation. This space must be well ventilated and have acoustic insulation on the walls and ceiling.

Why Do You Need an Above Ground Pool Heater?

Certainly, there are many valid reasons to buy an above ground pool heater. Here’s a list with some of them.

• Keep warm your pool water

Pool heaters help stabilize the pool water temperature. This is convenient in places with cold climates, where the temperature may suddenly decrease.

• They protect your health

A sudden drop in the water temperature may be the cause of different conditions. For example, a simple cold or a serious hypothermia. With a pool heater, this risk wouldn’t exist.

• They consume little energy

Most modern pool heaters are energy-efficient. That means they don’t require consuming too much electrical power to function. So, you’ll barely notice the difference in your monthly electricity bills.

• Easy to install

Pool heaters are easy to install. Also, you don’t need previous experience to do it. The instructions are easy to understand and you won’t need too many tools during installation.

Above Ground Heater Maintenance Tips

• Regularly clean your pool filter to prevent small debris from accumulating inside the heater.
• Carefully inspect the heat exchangers and remove any gunk on the surface. Do it at least once a month to avoid serious problems in the future.
• In the case of gas-powered units, replace the burners in case of rust.
• Clean the burners periodically. Make sure there are no obstructions on the gas outputs.
• Install the pool heater in a closed space if you live in a coastal area. The sea breeze can quickly degrade the external case.
• Don’t use abrasive cleaning tools and harsh chemicals to clean the case. The surface may scratch so easily.

It’s Time to Wrap Up

As you can see, you need some basic mathematical knowledge to know the BTU that your pool requires. If you aren’t good with numbers, don’t worry. Ask a professional to do the calculations.

It’s also important to consider the power source. Opting for a gas-powered model isn’t always a good idea. Especially if the gas output is far from the installation site. Making a bad decision may considerably increase the installation costs.

If you live in a cold and cloudy area, opting for solar blankets isn’t a good idea. Better save some extra money to buy a good pool heater. If you’re looking for the best of the best, choose any option in our top 10 list.

FAQs

1. Should I go the solar route?

Ans. If electricity and gas costs are too high where you live, it’s better to choose a solar pool heater. However, the sun light must be intense enough to generate the required heat.

2. How long can the above ground pool heater last?

Ans. The average useful life of an above ground pool heater is 7-10 years.

3. Are the natural gas heaters easy to install?

Ans. Yes. If the gas output is near the installation site, the process is easy. However, if you need to install new copper pipes, it’s better to call a professional.

4. What size of above ground heater do I need?

Ans. As said before, to choose the right above ground heater, you need to calculate first the required BTUs. To learn how to do this, check out the tips on the buying guide.

5. How are solar blankets effective?

Ans. Solar blankets use small air bubbles to absorb heat from sunlight. Then, heat is transferred to the water when the ambient temperature drops. This way, the pool water temperature remains stable.

6. How fast is the heating process of above ground pool heaters?

Ans. It all depends on the BTUs and the total water volume of your pool. However, if the pool is small and the heater is powerful, the water temperature can increase at a rate of 1º-2º C per hour.

7. What is the difference between Pool Heater and Heat Pump?

Ans. A pool heater extracts heat from the heat exchangers. On the other hand, heat pumps extract heat from the air and then transfer it to the pool water.