9 Best Swimming Pool Heaters for Above or Inground Use


natural gas swimming pool heater

There is a perception that good swimming pool heaters are very expensive. However, that is not really the case. they are available for everyone because they are available in a wide range of prices. Therefore, if swimming is one of the families favorite things a pool heater actually extends the swimming season. Thus, helping to get your monies worth out of the pool expense.

This is because most people don’t swim during colder weather conditions which can be not-so-fun to spend time in a cold swimming pool. As a result, you can add a swimming pool heater and ensure your water is heated up to the right temperature.

Having warm water to swim in, and adding a patio heater, you got this puppy covered!  You can extend your pool time on average by 2X.  Just for talking, if you invested $20,000 for a nice pool, and you can spend $5,000 or less to get twice as much time in it, just seems like a win-win!

We have compiled the best swimming pool heaters to help you choose what will meet your needs. So let’s get into it.

What Are the Best Swimming Pool Heaters on the Market?

Comparing the Best Swimming Pool Heaters

Photo Title Price Buy
SunHeater S120U Universal...image SunHeater S120U Universal Solar Pool Heater 2 by 20-Feet, Black $111.13 Check Latest Price
SunQuest Solar Pool...image SunQuest 2-2'X10' Solar Swimming Pool Heater $356.34 Check Latest Price
GAME 4721-BB SolarPRO...image GAME 4721-BB SolarPRO Curve Solar Pool Heater $212.42 Check Latest Price
FibroPool Swimming Pool...image FibroPool Swimming Pool Heat Pump - FH255 55,000 BTU - for Above and In Ground Pools and Spas - High Efficiency, All Electric Heater - No Natural Gas or Propane Needed $2,199.99 Check Latest Price
XtremepowerUS Inground/Above Ground...image XtremepowerUS Inground/Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Panel Heating System $119.95 Check Latest Price
Smart Pool S601...image Smart Pool S601 Inground Pool Solar Heating System, Includes Two 2’ x 20’ Panels (80 sq. ft.) – Made of Durable Polypropylene, Raises Temperature Up to 15°F – S601P, Pack of 1, Black $225.14 Check Latest Price
SunQuest Solar Swimming...image SunQuest Solar Swimming Pool Heaters (2' x 12', 2 Count + Couplers) - Two Solar Hot Water Heater Panels - with Max-Flow Design - Swimming Pool Accessories for Inground Pools or Above Ground Pools $311.75 Check Latest Price
Goplus Solar Dome...image Goplus Solar Dome Swimming Pool Heater Above Ground $109.99 Check Latest Price
SunHeater Pool Heating...image SunHeater Pool Heating System Two 2’ x 20’ Panels – Solar Heater for Inground and Aboveground Made of Durable Polypropylene, Raises Temperature, 6-10°F, S240U Black $184.50 Check Latest Price

9 Best Swimming Pool Heaters & Reviews

1. Best Swimming Pool Heaters – SunHeater S120U Universal Solar Pool Heater

swimming pool heaters for inground pools

This is one of the best swimming pool heaters that provide unwavering quality. If you are looking for a pool heater that will complement your pool Decor then this solar heater is the most viable option. It is designed in a unique way that makes it worth having around your pool. It is easy to install for both the above-ground and in ground swimming pools.

Therefore, you can do the installation by yourself there is no need of hiring a professional. To achieve the best out of this ETA you will need to install it on the roof, fence, ground or the Rock it is designed with a patented web to ensure it wraps maximum sunrise which will be converted to energy used in heating the water temperatures it can raise the water temperature between 6-10 degrees.

When you’re not swimming it is advisable to cover it using a solar-powered air pocket to prevent energy loss to the surrounding. Generally, this is a genuine heater that provides ultimate productivity. You can budget well for it and purchase it through a reliable retailer.

Pros
  • It is simple to use
  • It can heat the pool to any desired temperature
Cons
  • It is noisy, especially at night.

2. Solar Heater for Above Ground Swimming Pool – SunQuest 2-2’X10 Solar Swimming Pool Heater

bestway swimming pool heater

This is one of the best solar swimming pool heaters that come with roof kits and diverters. This makes it easy to fix it on the roof where it can trap maximum sunlight energy which will be translated to heat. This has contributed to its top-rated performance. It is also made from one of the best technologies that have made it have an unmatched quality when it comes to its functionality.

Additionally, this pool heater will allow you to enjoy swimming from early spring through the late fall. The water is circulated through the solar system and in the long run, it is heated before it is delivered back to the swimming pool. The installation is pretty quick it can take approximately 30 minutes to have the whole unit fixed in place.

Furthermore, it is made from one of the best qualities which makes it better when compared to other solar panels. As a result of this, it can be a little bit costly when compared to other models.

Pros
  • It comes with excellent connectors that allow it to be firmly fixed on the roof.
  • It is easy to install hence you can do it by yourself.
  • It is made using high-end quality material
Cons
  • It is expensive
  • There are leakages because of poor pipe fittings.

3. Solar Powerred Swimming Pool Heater – SolarPROcurve Solar Pool Heater

inground swimming pool heaters

This is a versatile heater that is characterized by its sleek curves that increases the surface area of sunlight exposure to ensure there is maximum energy output which will be used to heat the water. It also increases the water temperature by 5 degrees every 4 days. Additionally, if you’re looking for a durable heater then this is the one will complement your needs because it is made from high-quality materials that will withstand harsh weather condition.

It looks stylish with its curved shape. It also has plumbing ports which makes it easy for installation. The legs are also adjustable to be able to maximize sun exposure. Therefore if you want to extend your swimming season then is ideal for you.

Pros
  • It increases the pool water temperature by 5 degrees within four days.
  • It offers good flow because of large tubes
  • It has an intuitive curved design and metallic clamps which makes it a great heater.
Cons
  • You will have to buy larger clamps to be able to use the adaptors

4. Electric Swimming Pool Heaters – Fibropool FH055 Pool Heater

cheap swimming pool heater

This is a powerful electric heater with a 15000 BTU output that can heat 10000 gallons of water. Also, it has a metallic coated casing which improved durability by preventing the internal parts from being exposed to adverse environmental effects that could easily damage its internals. It also has a display that makes it easy for you to customize your settings to suit your needs. Additionally, it is easy to install and it will take approximately half an hour to get the job done. This pool heater requires approximately 220volts

for it to function optimally. Therefore you should ensure that you have the stable power supply if you want to get the best out of it. Additionally, it also has polymer headers and valves which contributes to its effectiveness.

Pros
  • Ideal for large pools
  • High levels of accuracy when it comes to temperature readings
  • Durable
  • Energy efficient
Cons
  • It only operates under a 220 V

5. Above Ground Solar Swimming Pool Heaters – XtremepowerUS Pool Heater

small swimming pool heater

This is one of the best solar panels which is made using high-quality materials that enables it to withstand adverse environmental effects. The water is circulated through the filter system where it will be heated and thereafter I returned the pool.

Additionally, these panels require less maintenance which makes it cost-effective once they have been installed. They are also eco-friendly hence it a very useful heating system. They can be used in any type of pool and the tube is constructed in a unique way to ensure there is effective heat transfer.

Furthermore, the size of your pool depends on the type of solar panel that you will need to heat your water which allows you to extend your swimming period. Pumps with greater than 1.5 horsepower might require diverters which are usually sold separately. This heater is also capable of increasing the water temperature by 10 to 15 degrees within a few days. The good thing about this pool heater is that it is cheaper compared to other models and you will get to experience enhanced performance.

Pros
  • Easy to install
  • It is cheaper
  • It works well with any type of pool
  • It can increase water temperature by 10-15 degrees
Cons
  • Pools that are large than 80 square feet will require more than one panel

6. Smartpool S601 Sun Heater Solar System

swimming pool water heater heat pump

This poo heater is made from resistant materials like thermoplastic polymers which can withstand the exposure to sunlight and other environmental factors. It is also one of the durable pools that you can buy. The material is so great when it comes to the absorption of solar rays which provides its energy that can run the water temperature to 10 Fahrenheit. Additionally, it can also be installed at the fence, ceiling or ground. The minimum size of the pool heater that should be installed will depend on the pool size. For instance, if the size of the pool is 20 by 40 then you will need four sets and an additional sk21 in-ground installation kit which consists of plumbing fixtures that are required to be installed to enhance is efficiency.

However, you may need a powerful pump to allow you to pump water the roof which will be heated as it flows through the heater and then it is later channels back to the pool. Additionally, it has no proper instructions which might make it quite difficult for you to use especially if you are a beginner because you will need a professional to help you learn how to use it. Generally, it is a good pool heater that can help you enjoy swimming in warm water.

Pros
  • It is cheaper to operate
Cons
  • It depends on the weather

7. SunQuest 2-2 x 12’ Solar Swimming Pool Heater

heat pump swimming pool heater

These are safe panels that are designed to be used for both the above-ground and the in-ground swimming pools. It is also designed with maxflow headers which ensure there is better water circulation and reduced pressure levels in the pump. Additionally, it is also compatible with your existing pump so you will not have to purchase an additional pump.

This cuts of the cost of the operations. It is also efficient because it can increase the pool temperatures by 10 degrees. The installation is pretty simple all you need to do is to follow simple instructions to get the heater installed.

Pros
  • It is easy to install
  • It requires less maintenance
  • It is effective especially when the sunlight intensity is at optimum
Cons
  • It doesn’t heat properly large volumes of water

8. Small Swimming Pool Heater – Goplus Solar Some Swimming Pool Heater

propane swimming pool heater

This is one of the best innovations made by eco-friendly heaters that require no electricity or gas connection. It uses solar energy to ensure your water is heated to the right temperatures. This helps you to extend your swimming seasons because you will not shy off from cold water. It has an aesthetic design that can complement your pool décor. Additionally, it also saves on space so you will not have to worry about it. There is a protective cover that is fitted on the dome to prevent it when it is not in use.

Pros
  • It is cost-effective
  • Easy to set up
  • You just need access to sunlight and you are done
Cons
  • You might have to purchase some additional parts separately.

9. Cheap Swimming Pool Heater – SmartpoolS240 U Swimming Pool Heating System

intex swimming pool heater

This is a well established solar heater with high efficiency and compatibility that can be used with any type of pool. The heating system is designed for both the above grounds and in-ground built at a very cost-effective price. They are compatible with various types of pumps hence you not have to make a replacement when installing this solar heater.

It is also durable and lightweight because it is made from black polyolefin which traps the most sunlight energy and converts it to heat that used in heating the water. The only challenge that you might experience is the size of the swimming pool heater. Well, it is a bit large which requires it to be installed in the rooftops so that it does not get obscured from the sun. Additionally, it may take up much of your space.

Generally despite some downside, this is one of the best swimming pool heaters that is versatile and offers high levels of functionality.

Pros
  • Saves on electricity and gas by using solar energy
  • Easy to install
  • Offers excellent water circulation
  • Compatible with both above ground and in ground swimming pools
Cons
  • It is relatively large which will not be ideal in smaller spaces

Conclusion

If you’re living in a colder region, you will know the importance of having a swimming pool heater. They have the best features that will help you to extend your swimming period beyond the winter season. Most of them are compatible with both the in-ground and above-ground pools which make it very customizable. Additionally, it is important to buy them from a trusted retailer who offers quality customer service and they can refund or sort out your complaints effectively. Don’t let the winter stops your swimming. Get one of these heaters and check if the package that you ordered has all components.

Top 3 Best Swimming Pool Heaters


heatersforlife

David: Penn State-educated Mechanical Engineer and Business-savvy Fluid Dynamics Specialist. Balances family plumbing business support with a thriving engineering career at a top, undisclosed company. (they want it that way) I help Will with plumbing and HVAC needs on his Real Estate.

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