10 Best Electric Pool Heaters 2025 in the United States

The TURBRO Beluga series swimming pool heat pump offers a heating capacity of 50,000 BTUs, making it suitable for pools up to 16,000 gallons. It's built with inverter technology to adjust heating power based on various factors like ambient temperature and water flow, ensuring consistent pool temperature. The COP rating of 15.90 suggests good energy efficiency, saving costs significantly compared to other heating methods such as natural gas or propane. However, it performs best when outdoor temperatures are above 60°F, which might limit its efficiency in colder climates. Using a pool cover can help mitigate this issue.

The unit is relatively large and requires professional installation due to its need for a hardwired connection to a 220-240 V power supply, which could add to initial setup costs and complexity. The titanium heat exchanger is a plus for durability and compatibility with saltwater pools. Control features are advanced, offering both a control panel and mobile app integration for convenience.

Safety features are robust, with multiple sensors monitoring various operational parameters and shutting down the system in case of faults. For those with above-ground or larger in-ground pools looking for an efficient and smartly controlled heating solution, this product could be a great fit, though it requires consideration of installation requirements and optimal operating temperatures.

The Hayward W3H250FDN Universal H-Series 250,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater is a strong performer in the electric pool heater category. With a substantial heating capacity of 250,000 BTUs, it’s well-suited for heating both in-ground pools and spas. This model stands out with its energy efficiency, thanks to an industry-leading hydraulic design that reduces the circulation pump run time, leading to significant energy savings. The heater’s size (33.3 x 32.8 x 30.6 inches) and weight (165 pounds) are notable and may require professional installation due to its bulk.

However, the front-panel-only access and intuitive control pad simplify operation, service, and maintenance, making it user-friendly once installed. Durability is another strong point, with a cupro nickel heat exchanger that offers excellent protection against corrosion and premature failure, even in the face of unbalanced water chemistry. Additionally, it meets low NOx emission standards, making it environmentally friendly. Despite its higher rank, some users may find the upfront cost and potential installation challenges as drawbacks. This heater is highly suitable for those needing a reliable, efficient, and durable solution for their pool or spa heating needs.

The DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-1400HP is a strong choice for heating mid to large-sized pools, with a heating capacity of 140,000 BTUs that suits pools up to 42,000 gallons, whether in-ground or above-ground. Its Full DC Inverter technology allows the heat output to adjust between 20% and 100%, which helps save energy by only working as hard as needed. This efficient design reportedly achieves an energy efficiency around 540%, meaning it produces significantly more heat than the electrical power it uses. The unit is relatively large and heavy (over 300 pounds), so installation space and professional setup should be considered. It runs quietly due to a twin rotary compressor that reduces vibration, making it less disruptive around your pool area.

The heat pump’s build quality is solid, certified by CSA and AHRI, which assures good durability and stable performance over time. One standout feature is its WiFi smart control via an app, letting you set the temperature and schedule heating remotely—convenient if you want your pool ready on arrival. While the product is made in China, it includes USA-based customer support, which can be helpful for troubleshooting.

Its size means it requires a fair amount of space and professional installation might add to the cost. Also, while quieter than some models, occasional noise could still be noticeable depending on placement. For those seeking an efficient, durable heat pump with smart features for a large pool, this model fulfills those requirements well.