- Hayward Universal H-Series. The Hayward Universal H-Series Pool Heater is designed more to be installed by a professional or someone who is at least familiar with the process.
- FibroPool Swimming Pool Heater. The best pool heater for smaller pools is this product from FibroPool. ...
- Pentair Stainless Steel MasterTemp. The Pentair Stainless Steel MasterTemp heater is another product that many see as the best pool heater.
- Raypak Natural Gas Heater. The Raypak Natural Gas Pool Heater is a 336,000 BTU unit. ...
- SmartPool SunHeater Solar Heating System for Inground Pool. Another product that can be seen as the best pool heater is the SmartPool SunHeater. ...
- Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm. This pool heater from Sta-Rite features a lightweight, unobtrusive design that makes it ideal for retrofit installation for indoor or outdoor pools.
- SunQuest Solar Swimming Pool Heater. The SunQuest Solar Pool Heater can be used for both in-ground and above-ground swimming pools. ...
What is the highest rated pool heater?
- 300K BTU propane gas high performance heater
- Heats up fast so no long waits before enjoying your pool or spa
- Best-in-class energy efficiency
- Manual gas shut-off when service is required
- MasterTemp is certified for low NOx emission and outperforms industry standards; Measures 36-inch length by 30-inch height by 25-inch width
Which pool heater should I buy?
Types of pool heaters
- Natural & Propane gas heaters. Gas heaters can operate on natural gas or propane fuels. ...
- Pool heat pumps. At first, the principle of work is the same as with gas heaters — the water pumped from the pool runs through the filter.
- Electric heaters. ...
- Solar pool heaters. ...
Which pool heat pump is best?
Best for Cold Climates: Pentair 460932 UltraTemp Heat Pump. “Automatic defrost feature, 60-Hertz frequency, 50-ampere breaker size.”. Most Efficient: Hayward HP50HA Fan Pool Heat Pump. “Built-in thermostat, equipped with a water pressure safety switch.”. Best Warranty: AquaCal TropiCal T115 Pool Heat Pump.
What is the best heater for an above ground pool?
Types of Above Ground Pool Heaters
- Solar-Powered Pool Heater. This is a popular heater that is powered using solar energy and it can be the best choice especially for an outdoor pool.
- Gas heater. This type uses either natural gas or propane to generate heat that will be used in heating the water.
- Electric Heater. This type uses electricity to generate heat in the water. ...
- Wood Heaters
What is the most efficient type of pool heater?
Electric pool heaters are considered more efficient than gas heaters, particularly in climates where temperatures don't dip below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. These heaters use a heat pump to warm the water using outside air. They heat the water more slowly than gas pool heaters, but are still considered more efficient.
Which is better electric or gas pool heater?
Efficiency and Installation By nature, gas heaters have a greater environmental impact than electric. However, electric takes longer to heat up your pool water and is less efficient in colder temperatures. This is because they rely on outside heat to warm up the pool water.
How do I choose a heater for my pool?
Calculate the pool surface area in square feet by multiplying the length and the width of your pool. Then, use this formula to figure out the BTUs you'll need your heater to put out: pool area (sq. ft.) x temperature rise x 12.
Who makes the best gas pool heater?
The 5 Best Natural Gas Pool Heaters of 2021CompanyForbes Advisor RatingRaypak PR266AENC50 266,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater4.2Raypak PR266AENX51 240,000 BTU Heater Electronic Ignition - NG4.2Hayward Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Pool and Spa Heater, Natural Gas4.1Raypak PR106AENC 105,000 BTU Heater4.01 more row•Apr 19, 2022
Is an electric pool heater worth it?
If you want to get as much time as possible out of your pool, however, a heater is a good investment. With a pool heater, you can easily be swimming May through mid-October, giving you a good five months of use out of your pool. That's literally double the amount of time you'd get without one.
What is the cheapest way to heat a swimming pool?
Here are the seven cheapest ways to heat your pool this off-season.Use a Solar Cover. ... Invest in Solar Sun Rings. ... Try Out a Liquid Solar Pool Cover. ... Build a Windproof Pool Enclosure. ... Use the Black Hose Trick. ... Snag a Pool Heat Pump. ... Combine a Solar Cover and Pool Heat Pump.
How big should my pool heater be?
The pool's surface area divided by three gives you the minimal BTU size recommended for that particular surface area. Continuing the example above with the 15 x 30 pool, after dividing by 3, you get 150. Therefore, the minimum size heater that is recommended for a 15 x 30 pool is 150,000 BTUs.
Are new pool heaters more efficient?
Today you can find new gas-fired heater models with much higher efficiencies than older models. However, depending on your climate and pool use, they may not be the most cost-effective option when compared to heat pump and solar pool heaters.
What is the life expectancy of a pool heater?
Here's the quick answer – pool heaters can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years or more, depending on the type of pool heater, how regularly it is maintained, and how thorough the maintenance is.
How long do Raypak pool heaters last?
We've done the research, and here's what we found out. Pool heaters have an average life expectancy of 6 to 12 years. But if you use them properly, keep them well-maintained, and make sure that the pool has balanced water chemistry, you can help them last longer than expected.
Are Jandy pool heaters any good?
The Jandy JXi is a good little heater that is a great choice if you need something compact and flexible. To save yourself a little money and run your heater less frequently, we recommend using your heater in conjunction with a solar pool cover to insulate your pool and prevent evaporation.
What size pool heater do I need for 20000 gallons?
For pools of up to 20,000 gallons, small heat pumps like the Hayward 95K BTU output are suitable. Pools up to 30,000 gallons should look at the AquaCal 120K BTU or higher, and 40,000 gallon inground pools should look at models like the Pentair 140K BTU.
Is a gas pool heater worth it?
2:295:25GAS POOL HEATER: How Does It Work & Is It Worth It? | Swim UniversityYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipA powerful gas heater can heat up your water by one degree fahrenheit in one hour unlike pool heatMoreA powerful gas heater can heat up your water by one degree fahrenheit in one hour unlike pool heat pumps gas heaters should not be run all of the time.
Which is cheaper to operate gas or electric?
Gas is generally a cheaper energy source than electricity. Operating costs for home appliances fueled by gas are typically less expensive than those which are powered by electricity.
Are gas pool heaters expensive to run?
The size of your pool also matters, with larger pools costing more to heat than smaller ones. On average, however, a gas heater costs around $200 to $400 a month to run. Electric heat pumps cost less, coming in at about $100 to $200 a month.
How long does it take for an electric heater to heat a pool?
about 24 to 72 hoursBut generally, it heats a pool after about 24 to 72 hours at 20-degrees Fahrenheit. However, it's a critical question that helps people to know the size of a pool heater to buy and the time they need in advance to switch on the heat pump to warm the pool enough.
What is the best pool heater to buy for home use?
The best heaters, in our opinion, are made by Raypak and Pentair. They provide the best features for the largest number of pool owners. Choose one...
What is the average cost of heating a pool?
The average cost to heat a pool for an entire year is around $3,100. If you live in an area where your pool is only used for several months a year,...
How do I know if my pool heater is working?
There are a few things you can check to make sure your pool heater is operating well. Check for electrical supply by making sure that the lights an...
How much heat does a pool lose overnight?
Using a high-quality pool cover can keep pool water heat loss down to just a couple of degrees overnight. An uncovered pool with a large, exposed s...
Should I turn my pool heater off at night?
There are almost as many opinions on this subject as there are pool heaters. For families that use their pool only intermittently, the best option...
How long does a pool heater last?
A pool heater is expected to last approximately 8 to 10-years as long as you keep up with regular maintenance.
What costs are involved in heating a swimming pool?
Heating a swimming pool depends on the pool’s size and the climate. Therefore, large pools cost more to heat due to the amount of water, while pool...
🧐 Are pool heaters worth the money?
Yes, a pool heater is undoubtedly worth the investment if you want to enjoy your pool time for a prolonged period and with a comfortable temperature.
🥇 What is the best pool heater?
Everything depends on your goals and climate, e.g. a gas heater will be the leader in quick heating; a heat pump will be perfect if you want to m...
🔨 Can I install a heater on my own?
It might be a challenge to install a gas heater without a specialist. We don’t recommend installing a heater by yourself, since it can lead to wa...
💰 How much does it cost to run a pool heater?
The operating costs for a natural gas heater will be around $7 per hour, for a heat pump , 80 cents per hour, electric heater — $6 and the s...
🪙 How to heat the water cheaply?
A pool cover preserves the heat from evaporation which will help to significantly cut down on operating costs. Using a pool cover can reduce the...
🌡What temperature should I set my pool heater to?
According to the United States Water Fitness Association , the water temperature at the pool should be from 84°F to 86°F (28°C-30°C).
🌙 Should I run my heater overnight?
No, it will just increase your energy bills, we recommend using a pool cover to maintain the desired temperature overnight.
How big is a smart pool heater?
The SmartPool Solar Heater includes a single panel array that is 4 feet x 20 feet.
What is a spruce pool heater?
The Spruce / Chloe Jeong. A pool heater means you can start swimming sooner and extend your season longer. These units work in tandem with your pool pump to warm pool water to a pre-set temperature and are compatible with both inground and above ground pools.
Why do pool heaters rust?
This is because many pool heaters have copper heating elements inside. The salty water can eventually cause rusting of the interior components. A pool heater with a cupronickel heat exchanger is better protected against the corrosive nature of saltwater and is a better choice for this type of pool.
What is a BTU in a pool?
A BTU (British Thermal Unit) is the measure of how much energy is required to raise the temperature of 1 pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit. You can approximate what type of BTU heater you need for your pool by multiplying your pool’s water capacity in gallons by the weight of a single gallon of water (8.6 pounds).
How long does it take for a gas pool heater to heat up?
It’s not uncommon for a gas pool heater to be able to raise temperatures by 5 degrees or more in less than 12 hours.
How does a solar panel heater work?
Instead of relying on gas, propane, or electricity, a solar panel heater absorbs energy from the sun’s rays. The solar heater then use s this energy to heat water passing through the panel from your pool pump. The warmer water is then returned to your pool.
How to raise pool temperature without leak?
If you want to raise your pool’s temperature without springing a major leak in your finances, consider a budget pool heater. The SmartPool SunHeater system is a solar-powered pool heater that utilizes the sun’s energy to warm your pool gradually.
What is the cheapest way to heat a pool?
For example, if you want to heat the pool water in the shortest time, the best option for you will be a gas heater. Decide how much you can spend on the operating costs per month. The most expensive will be gas and electric heaters. While heat pumps will be cheaper, and solar heaters are the cheapest.
How hot does a solar water heater get?
In the case of solar heaters, efficiency depends on the amount of solar energy received, but on average you will get 6-10°F (4-6°C) per DAY which is less in comparison to gas heaters (2-4°F per HOUR) and heat pumps (1-2°F per HOUR).
How fast does a Hayward heater work?
It is the quickest heater among those on our list. The Hayward heater will increase the temperature by 2-4°F in an hour. It is 2 times quicker than any other heat pump that we have reviewed. The heater is the best option for those who have a connection to natural gas.
What is the quickest way to heat pool water?
The quickest to heat the water in any weather condition. This gas heater is the best choice if you want to heat the water within the shortest time. It will heat the water 2 times quicker than any heat pump. This model can increase the temperature by 2-4°F to the average pool size per hour.
What is a heat exchanger in a pool?
The heat exchanger is one of the essential components in the pool heater. It helps to transfer the heat from a hot fluid to cold, heating the water in this way.
Why do you need a check valve on a pool heater?
Every heater manufacturer includes a note in the user manual about the importance of a check valve to avoid corrosion of metal parts in the pool heater. A check valve is essential if you use chlorine as a sanitizer since chlorine can damage the heater.
How long should I run a heat pump?
Maintains constant temperature. To maintain the desired temperature, you need to run the heat pump just 2-3 hours per day. That’s enough to maintain a comfortable swimming temperature at all times.
Why Do You Need One Of The Top Swimming Pool Heaters?
There are multiple benefits to investing in one of the top swimming pool heaters on the market for your swimming pool, let’s break them down.
7. SunQuest Solar Swimming Pool Heater
The SunQuest Solar Pool Heater can be used for both in-ground and above-ground swimming pools. Generally, it can be installed easily and anyone can do it, but if you’re not used to the process, it’ll benefit you more to have someone knowledgeable install it.
6. Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm
This pool heater from Sta-Rite features a lightweight, unobtrusive design that makes it ideal for retrofit installation for indoor or outdoor pools. It is user-friendly as well and there is a LED temperature readout that has dual thermostat controls.
5. SmartPool SunHeater Solar Heating System for Inground Pool
Another product that can be seen as the best pool heater is the SmartPool SunHeater. It makes use of a direct flow system, and it is best used for heating up in-ground pools. This polypropylene heat collector can raise temperatures anywhere between 6-10 degrees. You can get up to 80 square feet of solar panels with this system.
4. Raypak Natural Gas Heater
The Raypak Natural Gas Pool Heater is a 336,000 BTU unit. It is designed with users in mind as it features straightforward controls and a digital display to keep you informed about specifications such as when the pool has reached the set temperature. This even has self-diagnosing capabilities in the event of problems.
3. Pentair Stainless Steel MasterTemp
The Pentair Stainless Steel MasterTemp heater is another product that many see as the best pool heater. As it is certified for its low NOx emissions, this pool heater is rated high for its energy efficiency. It’s even easy to switch between heat and air circulation by simply flipping a switch as desired.
2. FibroPool Swimming Pool Heater
The best pool heater for smaller pools is this product from FibroPool. To allow customization of the level of comfort, there is both heating and cooling modes that are simple to use. The unit is light in weight and is generally easy to install.
How many BTUs does a natural gas pool heater have?
Natural gas pool heaters are a convenient and efficient option if your home already has a natural gas line, and this model comes in several sizes, ranging from 206,000 to 406,000 BTUs.
How many BTU per hour does a Hayward pool heater use?
This pool heat pump delivers an output of 150,000 to 400,000 BTU per hour, depending on the size you choose. Hayward's universal heater runs on natural gas, has low environmental impact, and meets clean air-quality standards.
How many gallons of propane does a Raypak pool heater use?
It has a 156,000 BTU per hour output, and the brand recommends it for both above- and in-ground pools up to 15,000 gallons.
How does a solar heater mat work?
If you have a smaller pool, this solar heater mat can help to raise its temperature a few degrees using nothing but the sun’s heat. It connects to filter pumps up to 0.5 horsepower, and as pool water is pushed through the mat, it absorbs the sun's rays, raising its temperature. The mat is recommended for above-ground pools up to 8,000 gallons, and it is often able to raise water temperature by 5 to 9 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you can also attach several of the mats together to accommodate a larger pool or produce more heat.
What is a cupronickel pool heater?
It uses a cupronickel heat exchanger, which prevents corrosion, making this heater great for saltwater and chemically treated in-ground pools. Owners can control the temperature using the heater’s digital LED control panel while service professionals appreciate the front-panel access for maintenance needs.
How wide is a polypropylene pool filter?
Each polypropylene panel is 20 feet long and 4 feet wide, and you can install them on the ground or even the roof of your house. They hook up to your pool’s filter, and as water passes through the channels in the panel, it will absorb the sun’s heat, warming up your pool.
When is it safe to dip in a pool?
There are often days in spring or late fall when it’s warm enough that you might consider jumping into your pool for a quick dip—but the idea is probably fleeting once you check its temperature. After all, 60-degree water is more frigid than refreshing!
What is the best pool heater?
As you might expect, electric pool heaters are the most popular type of pool heater, and arguably the most efficient. As well as performing consistently year-round, an electric pool heater is the fastest way to heat your pool. You’ll obviously have monthly costs with an electric pool heater – factor in that your electricity bill will go up – but you’ll spend less per month if you go for an energy-efficient electric pool heater, compared to one that’s cheaper to buy but has higher running costs.
How many types of pool heaters are there?
There are three main types of pool heaters; gas pool heaters, electric pool heaters (including heat pumps) and solar powered pool heaters.
What is the best way to heat a pool?
A solar pool heater is the most planet-friendly way to heat your pool. Unlike other types of pool heater, solar pool heaters use natural energy sources, making them the most economical option. A solar pool heater uses solar collectors to transfer the thermal energy of the sun to the water in the pool.
How long does a pool heater last?
The good news is that pool heaters are designed to last between seven to ten years, so you shouldn’t have to fork out on a new one anytime soon.
How does a gas pool heater work?
A gas pool heater runs in a similar way to your home’s hot water heater – it burns natural gas or propane in a combustion chamber and transfers that heat to the water as it circulates through the heater. It has to be connected to a gas line through an underground gas pipe. This means that while the initial upfront cost may be lower than other types of pool heater, the installation costs are usually higher. And depending on the location of your nearest gas source, installation can even be prohibitively costly.
Can I use a pool heater all year round?
In our opinion, yes . Even if you live in a state that’s pretty warm and sunny for most of the year, there will still be days when the water temperature is less than inviting. A good pool heater will ensure your home pool stays open year round, so you can enjoy it much more and get your money’s worth.
Is pool heater dependent on climate?
So, there’s a very dependent relationship between some models and climate. Make sure you factor this into any of your buying decisions and calculations when it comes to pool heaters. If you live in a region with a steady, hot climate, then you’ll be fine to opt for a heater that’s reliant on the ambient temperature.
What type of heater is used for a pool?
You find three types of pool heaters on the market: solar, gas, and electric heaters. Here is how each one of them heats your swimming facility. Solar Pool Heaters. A solar pool heater can reduce in-ground and above-ground pool heating costs significantly.
What is a Hayward pool heater?
The Hayward W3H150FDP is a propane gas pool that raises the pool temperature to allow you to swim during chilly days and nights. It delivers an exceptional heating performance of 150,000 BTU and is reliable for decades.
How long does it take for a solar pool heater to warm up?
It uses the sun’s energy to warm the pool’s water to prolong your swimming season by a few weeks. Another thing about the solar pool heater is connecting it in a series to boost its heating efficiency. Every done can increase the temperature by about 50 degrees F in about seven days.
How does a pool heat pump work?
The heat pump circulates the water through the pool filter and into the gas heater. There are gas burners in the heating unit’s combustion chamber that generates the heat to warm the water. The heat gets to the water through a heat exchanger like Cupron-Nickel or titanium heat exchanger.
How long does it take for a pool heater to increase temperature?
Every done can increase the temperature by about 50 degrees F in about seven days. Pool owners should note the model requires a bypass kit when connecting two or more solar pool heaters. That is true when connecting to all 1 HP pool pumps for circulating the water to the heater.
Can you use a solar pool heater at night?
You can use a solar pool heater to cool the water during the night by following the same process. Gas Pool Heaters. They remain the most popular heating products for swimming pools, spas, and other water bodies. You can find models using natural or propane gas and become more efficient as their technology advances.
Is a solar pool heater easier to install than an electric pool heater?
The system is easy to install than an electric pool heater because you only need to connect the hoses. And the significant thing about the solar pool heaters is their hoses are solid and free of leaks. There is no losing heat from the air temperature sipping into the system.
What is the best heating system for above ground pools?
For larger above ground pools and a more effective heating system, the Bear Solar heating system is a good choice. These solar heating panels can be propped against the side of your pool, placed on the ground or the roof, or hung around the area.
Why do you need a pool heater?
Pool heaters help you extend the swimming season in your pool, so you can enjoy a dip even in the spring or autumn months. If you have a spa or hot tub, getting the right heater is essential for warming up the spa quickly and keeping it hot for you to use anytime.
How many BTUs does a Pentair pool heater have?
There are 8 different models of the same unit, ranging from 175,000 BTUs to 400,000 BTUs. Some of the models feature extra protection and features, giving you more options for a longer-lasting heater.
How many gallons of water does a 92,000 BTU pool heater hold?
This is a 92,000 BTU electric water heater for your in-ground pool. It’s rated as a good fit for pools up to about 15,000 gall ons, regardless of depth or surface area. You can expect between 5 and 10 degrees of warmth during most seasons when you’re using this pump, if you use it for the properly sized pool.
Why do you need an electrically bonded pool heater?
Heater casings should be electrically bonded. This will help to prevent accidents resulting from electric shock, as well as keeping the heater safe from shorting out. Even if water does get in and ruin the heater, an electrically bonded heater case may keep it from damaging anything else in the pool or causing injuries.
What happens if you don't install a pool heater?
If the heater isn’t installed in the right order or anything is messed up during installation, it can cause failure more quickly. One note is that if you have a saltwater pool, the saltwater generator needs to be installed after your pool heater.
How does a heat pump work?
Heat pumps also work using your electricity, but they use the heat from the air or water itself to heat your pool rather than pure electrical power. This makes them less costly to operate each month, although they do work more slowly than traditional electric heaters. You can count on a heat pump lasting for a long time, sometimes even 15-20 years, and costing a moderate price each month, although they are also not at all energy efficient.
What kind of heater should I use for a pool?
The three most common types of pool heaters are propane/natural gas heaters, electric pool heaters (which include heat pumps), and solar-powered pool heaters. The best choice for your pool depends on where you live, how often you want to heat the pool (all the time vs. occasionally), and your budget.
What is the best propane pool heater?
The Hayward W3H200FDP is one of the best propane pool heaters in the market. At 200,000 BTUs, it’s perfect for most in-ground swimming pools. If you have a larger pool or want your pool to heat faster, select the 250,000 BTU or 400,000 BTU heaters.
How much does a Hayward pool heater raise the water temperature?
If you have a standard 15’ by 30’ pool (about 15,000 gallons), the Hayward H400FDN pool heater will raise water temperature by about 2.7 degrees every hour. For a large 20’ to 30’ pool, the rise will be about 2 degrees per hour.
How many BTUs is a good pool temperature?
200,000 BTUs are adequate for most swimming pools. If you have a 15’ by 30’ swimming pool, the Hayward W3H200FDP will raise water temperature by about 1.5-2 degrees every hour.
What is a Hayward W3H200FDP?
The Hayward W3H200FDP is a great choice for pool owners without access to natural gas. The Hayward W3H200FDP works just as well as a natural gas heater but uses propane.
What is the best heat pump for an above ground pool?
The Hayward HP50TA HeatPro heat pump is the best choice for above ground pool owners looking for an affordable pool heater that warms the water quickly and doesn’t cost much to operate.
How long does it take for a Hayward heat pump to warm a pool?
But it’s powerful enough to warm a standard in-ground pool in 2-4 days depending on the temperature you set and the weather.
The Best 5 Propane Pool Heaters of 2021
Our ratings take into consideration factors like pricing, customer rating, heating capacity, warranty and compatible pool type. All ratings are determined solely by the editorial team.
How To Determine Which Electric Pool Heater Is Best For You
The main factor in determining the best propane pool heater for your needs is the heat output capacity, measured in BTUs. British Thermal Units (BTUs) refer to the amount of energy required to increase the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. The propane heaters we evaluated range in heat output from 100K BTUs to 400K BTUs.
Reasons to Get a Propane Pool Heater
There are many options on the market for heating your pool—propane, electric, solar and others. Currently, it is generally agreed that propane is the most financially cost-effective energy source for heating your pool.
Methodology
To determine the best propane pool heater ranking, the Forbes Home Improvement editorial team analyzed third-party data on 10 major companies, with each product’s star rating determined by evaluating a variety of metrics, including:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The best propane pool heater will depend on the size of your pool and the climate of the region that you live in. For larger, in-ground pools, the best pool heater will fall in the range of 200,00 to 400,000 BTUs. For mid-size to small pools and above-ground pools, the best pool heater will output 100,000 to 200,000 BTUs.