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10 Best Above Ground Pool Heaters 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Aquastrong 35,000 BTU Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump, 9,000 Gallons Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground and Inground Pool, WiFi Capable Timer, Heating and Cooling Pool Heater 120V

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,113
BTU Output
Energy Efficiency
Installation and Maintenance

Most important from
27 reviews

BTU Output
The heater raises pool temperature impressively fast, with one user noting a jump from 64 to 79 degrees in just 24 hours.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency stands out with a high coefficient of performance around 15, allowing quicker heating at lower electricity costs.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation is straightforward thanks to clear instructions and multiple connection options, making setup hassle-free despite the unit's weight.
Size and Compatibility
The heater performs well even in larger pools, with a 17,000-gallon pool seeing a 10-degree increase in about 10 hours under moderate conditions.

The Aquastrong 35,000 BTU Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump is a versatile option for both above-ground and inground pools up to 9,000 gallons. Its inverter heat pump design offers efficient heating and cooling, allowing you to maintain comfortable pool temperatures throughout the year—from chilly mornings to cooler autumn days. With 35,000 BTU output, it heats the water relatively quickly, making it suitable for medium to large pools or colder climates.

One of its strengths is energy efficiency. Thanks to the advanced inverter technology, it achieves a high coefficient of performance (COP) of 15.8, meaning it uses significantly less electricity compared to traditional electric or gas heaters. This can save you money on energy bills while keeping your pool warm. The unit also operates quietly at 48 dB, which is about the noise level of a quiet conversation, and features an automatic defrost system to ensure reliable heating even in cold weather.

Installation is made easier by multiple hose adapter options that fit a variety of pool plumbing setups, which helps in compatibility and reduces the hassle of setup. The heater is WiFi capable, enabling remote control via an app, so you can adjust the temperature or set schedules conveniently from your phone. The heater is relatively heavy (around 117 pounds) and somewhat large, which might require careful placement and assistance during installation. Also, it requires a 120V power source and a water flow rate of up to 20 gallons per minute, so you’ll need to ensure your pool pump system can meet these requirements. This heater is ideal for pool owners looking to extend their swimming season with a reliable, energy-saving solution that’s easy to control and suitable for various climates. If your pool size fits within its capacity and you value quiet operation plus smart features, the Aquastrong model is worth considering.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,113
BTU Output
Energy Efficiency
Installation and Maintenance

Most important from
27 reviews

BTU Output
The heater raises pool temperature impressively fast, with one user noting a jump from 64 to 79 degrees in just 24 hours.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency stands out with a high coefficient of performance around 15, allowing quicker heating at lower electricity costs.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation is straightforward thanks to clear instructions and multiple connection options, making setup hassle-free despite the unit's weight.
Size and Compatibility
The heater performs well even in larger pools, with a 17,000-gallon pool seeing a 10-degree increase in about 10 hours under moderate conditions.
#2

Hayward W3H400FDN Universal H-Series 400,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater for In-Ground Pools and Spas

Rating
9.6
Heater Type
BTU Output
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
524 reviews

Heater Type
The heater performs wonderfully, even after 17 years of using a similar model.
BTU Output
Oversizing the heater was beneficial, allowing us to quickly raise the pool temperature by 1.5 to 2 degrees per hour.
Energy Efficiency
Despite the complexity of the installation, the heater is impressively quiet and efficient.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation was a bit challenging, requiring extensive gas line setup, but the end result is worth it.
Climate Suitability
The heater significantly extended our swimming season, warming our pool from 65°F to 80°F overnight. It's a game-changer for cooler months.
Size and Compatibility
The heater occasionally shows a 'LO' code and stops working until the pressure is released by backwashing.

The Hayward W3H400FDN Universal H-Series 400,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater stands out in the above-ground pool heater category with its robust heating capabilities. With a powerful BTU output of 400,000, it can effectively heat larger pools, ensuring comfortable water temperatures even during cooler weather. This makes it a great option for pool owners looking to extend their swimming season.

One of the key advantages of this heater is its durable cupro nickel heat exchanger, which offers impressive resistance to corrosion. This is particularly beneficial for those dealing with challenging water chemistry, as it enhances the heater's lifespan and reliability. The energy-efficient hydraulic design helps reduce energy costs by minimizing the pump run time, making it a more economical choice in the long run.

Installation and maintenance are made easier with front-panel-only access and an intuitive control pad, so users can operate and service the heater without needing extensive technical knowledge. Additionally, the low NOx emissions align with air quality standards, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. However, the unit is relatively heavy at 195 pounds, which may pose challenges during installation if proper assistance isn’t available. The heater may be more suited for in-ground pools rather than above-ground setups, limiting its compatibility for some users. With a price point that might be on the higher side compared to other options, potential buyers should evaluate if the features justify the investment.

Rating
9.6
Heater Type
BTU Output
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
524 reviews

Heater Type
The heater performs wonderfully, even after 17 years of using a similar model.
BTU Output
Oversizing the heater was beneficial, allowing us to quickly raise the pool temperature by 1.5 to 2 degrees per hour.
Energy Efficiency
Despite the complexity of the installation, the heater is impressively quiet and efficient.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation was a bit challenging, requiring extensive gas line setup, but the end result is worth it.
Climate Suitability
The heater significantly extended our swimming season, warming our pool from 65°F to 80°F overnight. It's a game-changer for cooler months.
Size and Compatibility
The heater occasionally shows a 'LO' code and stops working until the pressure is released by backwashing.
#3

Aquastrong 16,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pools Up to 5,000 Gallons, Heating and Cooling Pool Heater 120V

Rating
9.5
BTU Output
Energy Efficiency
Installation and Maintenance

Most important from
27 reviews

BTU Output
Heating performance is impressive, capable of raising pool temperature significantly within 24 hours, demonstrating high efficiency.
Energy Efficiency
The unit's high coefficient of performance (COP) translates into faster heating and reduced energy costs.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation is straightforward and quick, with clear instructions and multiple connection options making setup accessible even for novices.
Climate Suitability
It maintains consistent heating with automatic safety shutoffs that activate if water flow slows, protecting the system.

The Aquastrong 16,000 BTU Heat Pump is a solid choice for above-ground pools up to 5,000 gallons. It uses a heat pump system, which is generally more energy-efficient than traditional electric heaters, and this model boasts a high energy efficiency with a 5.5 COP rating. This means it can save you a good amount on energy costs, up to 70% less than regular electric heaters. The heater also offers both heating and cooling modes, allowing you to maintain a comfortable pool temperature year-round, which is great if you want to extend your swimming season. Its thermostat keeps water temperature accurate within 2°F, so you get consistent comfort.

Installation is user-friendly, with adapters for different hose sizes and a quick setup time of under 10 minutes, making it accessible even if you're not very experienced. The unit operates quietly at just 38 dB, so it won’t disturb your outdoor relaxation. It also has an automatic defrost feature that handles ice buildup without you needing to intervene, which is helpful in colder climates. The size and weight are reasonable for above-ground pool setups, and the cast iron material points to good durability.

This heater is specifically designed for pools up to 5,000 gallons, so it might not be suitable if your pool is larger. Additionally, while it’s efficient and multi-functional, it runs on standard 120V power, which could limit heating speed compared to higher voltage units. The 3-year warranty and lifetime support provide extra peace of mind. This heater is well suited for medium-sized pools in moderate climates where energy efficiency and ease of use are priorities.

Rating
9.5
BTU Output
Energy Efficiency
Installation and Maintenance

Most important from
27 reviews

BTU Output
Heating performance is impressive, capable of raising pool temperature significantly within 24 hours, demonstrating high efficiency.
Energy Efficiency
The unit's high coefficient of performance (COP) translates into faster heating and reduced energy costs.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation is straightforward and quick, with clear instructions and multiple connection options making setup accessible even for novices.
Climate Suitability
It maintains consistent heating with automatic safety shutoffs that activate if water flow slows, protecting the system.

Buying Guide for the Best Above Ground Pool Heaters

Choosing the right above-ground pool heater can significantly enhance your swimming experience by extending your pool season and ensuring comfortable water temperatures. When selecting a pool heater, it's important to consider various factors such as the size of your pool, your climate, and your heating preferences. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Heater TypeThere are three main types of above-ground pool heaters: gas heaters, electric heat pumps, and solar heaters. Gas heaters are known for their quick heating capabilities and are ideal for those who want to heat their pool on demand. Electric heat pumps are energy-efficient and work best in moderate climates, as they extract heat from the air. Solar heaters are environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run, but they depend on sunlight and may not be as reliable in cooler or cloudy climates. Choose a heater type based on your climate, energy preferences, and how quickly you want your pool to heat up.
BTU OutputBTU (British Thermal Unit) output measures the heating power of the pool heater. The higher the BTU, the faster the heater can warm up the pool. For small to medium-sized pools, a heater with a lower BTU output (50,000-100,000 BTUs) may be sufficient. Larger pools or those in cooler climates may require a higher BTU output (100,000-200,000 BTUs or more) to maintain a comfortable temperature. Consider the size of your pool and the average temperature of your area to determine the appropriate BTU output for your needs.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency is an important factor to consider, as it affects both the operational cost and environmental impact of the pool heater. Look for heaters with high energy efficiency ratings, which indicate that they use less energy to produce the same amount of heat. Electric heat pumps and solar heaters are generally more energy-efficient than gas heaters. If you are environmentally conscious or want to save on energy bills, prioritize energy-efficient models.
Installation and MaintenanceThe ease of installation and maintenance can vary between different types of pool heaters. Gas heaters typically require professional installation due to gas line connections, while electric heat pumps and solar heaters can often be installed by the homeowner with some basic tools. Maintenance requirements also differ; gas heaters may need regular servicing, while solar heaters generally require minimal upkeep. Consider your comfort level with installation and maintenance tasks when choosing a pool heater.
Climate SuitabilityThe climate in your area plays a significant role in determining the best type of pool heater for you. Gas heaters perform well in all climates, including colder regions, as they can quickly raise the water temperature. Electric heat pumps are more efficient in moderate to warm climates, as they rely on ambient air temperature to heat the water. Solar heaters are most effective in sunny, warm climates but may struggle in areas with limited sunlight. Assess your local climate to choose a heater that will perform optimally in your conditions.
Size and CompatibilityEnsure that the pool heater you choose is compatible with the size and type of your above-ground pool. Heaters come in various sizes, and selecting one that matches your pool's dimensions is crucial for efficient heating. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for pool size compatibility and ensure that the heater can be easily integrated with your existing pool setup. Proper sizing and compatibility will ensure optimal performance and longevity of the heater.

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