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Best Pool Heaters for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: April 25th, 2024

🏊‍♂️Trying to keep your pool water warm and make the swimming season last longer? Whether you're dealing with an above-ground pool, an in-ground pool, or a spa, the right pool heater can really make a difference.

We've done the legwork and checked out the best options for 2024, focusing on everything from energy-efficient electric heaters to green-friendly solar ones. We've considered all kinds of budgets and needs.

Here are our recommendations to help you find the perfect pool heater for your setup.

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Overall Best: FibroPool FH055 Swimming Pool Heater Pump

The FibroPool FH055 Swimming Pool Heater Pump stands out as our top pick due to its impressive combination of performance, energy efficiency, and versatility. This electric heater boasts 55,000 BTUs, making it perfect for above-ground pools up to 21-foot round or 15 x 30-foot oval, and in-ground pools up to 10,000 gallons. With its advanced titanium heat exchanger and Copeland brand compressor, you can expect long-lasting performance. It's also designed to be compact and durable, which means it can handle even saltwater pools with ease. According to our research, users are consistently impressed with its reliability and efficiency, making it a top choice.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$2,199.99 at Amazon

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Runner-up: Raypak PR266AENC50 Natural Gas Heater

For those in need of a powerful and efficient option, the Raypak PR266AENC50 Natural Gas Heater is our runner-up. This unit is ideal for pools up to 20,000 gallons, thanks to its robust 266,000 BTU capacity. It efficiently warms your pool with a high-flow automatic bypass system, ensuring energy efficiency. The durable Cupro-Nickel heat exchanger adds to its longevity, making it a practical investment. Its compact size also simplifies the installation process, making it a great option for both above-ground and in-ground pools. Users appreciate its fast heating capabilities and sturdy construction.

Available at Amazon

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Best Budget Option: EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 Electric Tankless Pool Heater

EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 Electric Tankless Pool Heater, 18kW, 240 Volt, 75 Amps with Self Modulating Technology

For those on a budget, the EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 Electric Tankless Pool Heater is a great option that doesn’t compromise on performance. It is perfect for small pools or spas up to 11,000 gallons, delivering 61,419 BTUs. With a temperature rise of up to 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit per hour, it quickly gets your pool to the desired temperature. It runs on 240 volts of electricity, making it energy-efficient with minimal operating costs. Its modular design and user-friendly interface make it an accessible and efficient option for cost-conscious buyers. According to user reviews, it offers great value and reliable performance.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$639.78 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 Heater? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How much does the EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 increase electricity bills?

Trying to figure out how the EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 Tankless Pool Heater will affect your electricity bill? Good call. Here's what we found: this heater has some neat features like self-modulating technology. This means it adjusts the power output based on how much hot water you need, which can help keep energy costs down by only using as much electricity as necessary. The manufacturer's product description mentions that it runs at 18kW on a 240-volt system and needs a dedicated 75-amp circuit. So, it's a good idea to double-check that your home's electrical setup can handle it. A proper setup can help prevent any inefficiencies or electrical issues. Our research shows that opinions on electricity costs vary. Some people noticed a bump in their bills, but there are a few factors at play—like how often you're using the heater and whether you pair it with something like a [solar cover](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsolar%2Bcover%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to help maintain the pool's temperature. This can make a big difference. To get the most out of this heater without spiking your energy costs, make sure it's installed properly with the right electrical support. Protecting the unit from harsh weather and doing regular maintenance checks can keep it running smoothly, which might also help with energy efficiency. Plus, using a [solar cover](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsolar%2Bcover%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) could help you save a bit on power by keeping the pool warm for longer. Just a heads up, some of our research points to challenges with customer service and reliability—like needing frequent maintenance—so keep that in mind if you're thinking long-term about energy and maintenance costs.

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How long does the EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 take to heat a pool?

The EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 is a pretty solid choice for heating pools up to about 10,000 gallons. It's got a heating capacity of 61,149 BTUs, so it can definitely make a difference in warming up the water fairly quickly. There's no official word from EcoSmart on exactly how long it will take to heat your pool, but our research shows that it's known for being quite efficient and speedy at its job. One cool feature is its self-modulating technology, which helps save energy by adjusting the power usage to match your heating needs. So, it only uses the juice it needs to keep your pool comfortable, which can cut down on those electric bills compared to some less efficient heaters. On the setup side, you definitely want to get a pro involved because it draws 240 Volts and 75 Amps—just like other appliances that pack a punch. A proper install will make sure everything runs smoothly and safely. Also, the heater uses advanced flow sensor technology instead of the usual pressure switches, which boosts its reliability and keeps the heating elements in good shape. According to our research, folks seem to like its compact size and how efficiently it heats things up, especially for smaller to medium pools. Do keep in mind, though, it's not weatherproof. So it's a good idea to set it up in a sheltered spot to guard against the elements. In the end, while the exact heating time can depend on things like how cold the water is to start and the size of the pool, the EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 is definitely a reliable and quick option. Just make sure you factor in the need for a professional setup and some weather protection.

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What size pool is the EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 designed for?

The EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 is meant for pools that can hold up to 10,000 gallons, according to the manufacturer's product description. It's an electric tankless heater that uses some pretty smart tech like self-modulating technology and flow sensors to optimize energy usage. Those features are nice because they help with reliability and the heater's lifespan. You might want to know it can bring up pool temps pretty quickly, but it does need a lot of electrical juice—two 40-amp breakers to be precise. So, you'd likely want a certified electrician to handle the installation. Our research says you should be aware of a few things. While the heater generally does its job well, some folks have had mixed experiences with energy use and component durability. There's talk of heating elements burning out, especially in pools with high chlorine levels or hard water. Plus, the quality of customer support seems to vary, which could be a concern if you run into issues. To keep this heater running smoothly, it's important to follow the installation and maintenance guidelines closely. This should help avoid problems and keep it working nicely long-term. So if your pool is under that 10,000-gallon mark, this could be a good fit. Just make sure you get it set up right and keep an eye on the maintenance.

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Best for Above-Ground Pools: Raypak 014779 PR106AENC

Specifically designed for above-ground pools, the Raypak 014779 PR106AENC provides a wind-resistant design and a heating capacity of 105,000 BTUs. This compact yet powerful unit ensures quick and efficient heating for smaller pools. Its robust construction and reliable performance make it a solid choice for those who need a dependable heating solution without breaking the bank. Users have noted its excellent performance, especially in windy conditions, which can be a common issue with above-ground pools.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$1,529.00 at Amazon

Best Heater-Cooler Combo: Raypak Crosswind Heat/Cool Electric Pool Heat Pump

Raypak Crosswind Model 30i Heat/Cool Electric Pool Heat Pump 28K BTU 208/230V Hard Wire - Not Plug-in - Inverter Technology, 28,000BTU, WiFi Capable, for Above Ground and In Ground Pools and spas

The Raypak Crosswind Heat/Cool Electric Pool Heat Pump is the perfect choice for those who need both heating and cooling functionalities. This versatile unit is compact and quiet while offering high efficiency. Its titanium heat exchanger ensures longevity and superior performance. Whether you want to warm up your pool during cooler months or cool it down on hot summer days, this heater-cooler combo provides precise temperature control. According to our research, users appreciate its year-round utility and straightforward operation, making it a versatile addition to any pool.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$995.00 at Amazon

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