Pool Home School
  • Best Guides
    • Heaters
      • Best Pool Heaters
      • Best Solar Pool Heaters
      • Best Electric Pool Heaters
      • Best Gas Pool Heaters
      • Best Propane Patio Heaters
      • Best Whole House Electric Tankless Water Heater Reviews
      • Best Bathroom Heaters
      • Top Hayward Pool Heat Pumps
      • Best Hot Tub Heaters
      • Best Sauna Heaters
    • Pools
      • Above Ground Pool
        • Best Above Ground Pools
        • Best Above Ground Pool Ladders
        • Best Above Ground Pool Lights
        • Best Above Ground Pool Covers
        • Best Above Ground Pool Heaters
        • Best Above Ground Pool Filters
        • Best Above Ground Pool Liner
        • Best Above Ground Pool Pad Reviews
        • Summer Waves vs. Intex
      • Best Kiddie Pools
      • Best Blow Up Pool
      • Coleman vs Intex Pools
    • Pool Cleaners
      • Cleaners by Brand
        • Best Dolphin Pool Cleaners
        • Best Polaris Pool Cleaners
        • Dolphin Quantum Review
      • Comparison
        • Dolphin Premier vs Polaris F9550
        • Dolphin Premier vs Nautilus CC Plus
        • Dolphin Sigma vs Premier
        • Polaris 360 vs Polaris 380
        • Zodiac MX6 vs Zodiac MX8
        • Aquabot vs Dolphin
        • Polaris 280 vs 380
      • Best Automatic Pool Cleaners
      • Best Suction Pool Cleaners
      • Best Above Ground Pool Vacuum for Intex
      • Best Pressure Side Pool Cleaner
      • Best Above Ground Pool Cleaners
      • Best Pool Cleaners for Leaves
    • Swimming supplies
      • Best Swimming Goggles
      • Best Swim Jammers
      • Best Swim Paddles
      • Best Swim Fins
      • Best Earplugs for Swimming
      • Best Nose Clips for Swimming
    • Pool Heat Pumps
    • Best Pool Covers
    • Best Shower Panels
    • Best Floating Pool Lights
    • Best Shower Filters For Hard Water
    • Best Handheld Shower Heads
    • Best Pool Alarm
    • Best Shower Bases & Pans
    • Best Pool Slides
    • Best Pool Floats for Tanning
    • Best Pool Basketball Hoop
    • Best Pool Brushes
    • Best Pool Pumps for Above Ground Pool
    • Best Soaking Tubs
    • Best Vessel Sinks
    • Best Thermostatic Shower Valves
  • best spa guides
    • Best Plug and Play Hot Tubs
    • Best Inflatable Hot Tubs
    • Best Hot Tub Covers
    • Best 2 Person Hot Tubs
    • Best 4 Person Hot Tubs
    • Best Heated Foot Spa
    • Best Portable Infrared Sauna
    • Best Whirlpool Tubs
    • Best Hot Tub Cover Lifters
    • Best 2 Person Saunas
  • Supplies
    • Best Pool Skimmer Basket
    • Best Pool Test Kit
    • Best Pool Chemicals
    • Best Pool Chlorine Tablets
    • Best Salt Water Pool System
    • Best Pool Skimmer
    • Best Telescopic Pool Poles Reviewed
    • Best Paints for Concrete Pool Decks
    • Best Pool Vacuum Heads Reviewed
    • Best Pool Filter Sand
    • Best Pool Lounge Chairs
    • Best Pool Algaecides
    • Best Pool Cover Pumps
    • Best Variable Speed Pool Pumps
    • Best Pool Thermometers
    • Best Pool Test Strips
    • Best Pool Fence
    • Best Baby Floats
    • Best Bathroom Fans
    • Best Corner Shower Caddys
    • Best Pool Umbrellas
    • Best Non Slip Bath Mats
    • Best Shower Drain Hair Catchers
    • Best Tension Shower Rods
  • Blog
    • Health Benefits of a Hot Tub
    • Setting Up a Pool
    • Best Time to Buy a Pool
    • How to Prevent Algae in Pool
    • How to Heat a Pool
    • Types of Diving Boards
    • Best Time to Run a Pool Pump
    • What is a Salt Water Pool
    • How to Level Ground for Pool
    • What to Put Around Above Ground Pool
    • How Much Sand Goes in a Sand Filter for a Pool
    • Pool Filter Types
    • How to Clean Pool Filter
    • How to Clean Pool Liner
    • How to Winterize a Pool
  • About
    • Contact Us
    • Disclosure
    • Privacy Policy
    • About me
Pool Home School
Pool Home School
  • Best Guides
    • Heaters
      • Best Pool Heaters
      • Best Solar Pool Heaters
      • Best Electric Pool Heaters
      • Best Gas Pool Heaters
      • Best Propane Patio Heaters
      • Best Whole House Electric Tankless Water Heater Reviews
      • Best Bathroom Heaters
      • Top Hayward Pool Heat Pumps
      • Best Hot Tub Heaters
      • Best Sauna Heaters
    • Pools
      • Above Ground Pool
        • Best Above Ground Pools
        • Best Above Ground Pool Ladders
        • Best Above Ground Pool Lights
        • Best Above Ground Pool Covers
        • Best Above Ground Pool Heaters
        • Best Above Ground Pool Filters
        • Best Above Ground Pool Liner
        • Best Above Ground Pool Pad Reviews
        • Summer Waves vs. Intex
      • Best Kiddie Pools
      • Best Blow Up Pool
      • Coleman vs Intex Pools
    • Pool Cleaners
      • Cleaners by Brand
        • Best Dolphin Pool Cleaners
        • Best Polaris Pool Cleaners
        • Dolphin Quantum Review
      • Comparison
        • Dolphin Premier vs Polaris F9550
        • Dolphin Premier vs Nautilus CC Plus
        • Dolphin Sigma vs Premier
        • Polaris 360 vs Polaris 380
        • Zodiac MX6 vs Zodiac MX8
        • Aquabot vs Dolphin
        • Polaris 280 vs 380
      • Best Automatic Pool Cleaners
      • Best Suction Pool Cleaners
      • Best Above Ground Pool Vacuum for Intex
      • Best Pressure Side Pool Cleaner
      • Best Above Ground Pool Cleaners
      • Best Pool Cleaners for Leaves
    • Swimming supplies
      • Best Swimming Goggles
      • Best Swim Jammers
      • Best Swim Paddles
      • Best Swim Fins
      • Best Earplugs for Swimming
      • Best Nose Clips for Swimming
    • Pool Heat Pumps
    • Best Pool Covers
    • Best Shower Panels
    • Best Floating Pool Lights
    • Best Shower Filters For Hard Water
    • Best Handheld Shower Heads
    • Best Pool Alarm
    • Best Shower Bases & Pans
    • Best Pool Slides
    • Best Pool Floats for Tanning
    • Best Pool Basketball Hoop
    • Best Pool Brushes
    • Best Pool Pumps for Above Ground Pool
    • Best Soaking Tubs
    • Best Vessel Sinks
    • Best Thermostatic Shower Valves
  • best spa guides
    • Best Plug and Play Hot Tubs
    • Best Inflatable Hot Tubs
    • Best Hot Tub Covers
    • Best 2 Person Hot Tubs
    • Best 4 Person Hot Tubs
    • Best Heated Foot Spa
    • Best Portable Infrared Sauna
    • Best Whirlpool Tubs
    • Best Hot Tub Cover Lifters
    • Best 2 Person Saunas
  • Supplies
    • Best Pool Skimmer Basket
    • Best Pool Test Kit
    • Best Pool Chemicals
    • Best Pool Chlorine Tablets
    • Best Salt Water Pool System
    • Best Pool Skimmer
    • Best Telescopic Pool Poles Reviewed
    • Best Paints for Concrete Pool Decks
    • Best Pool Vacuum Heads Reviewed
    • Best Pool Filter Sand
    • Best Pool Lounge Chairs
    • Best Pool Algaecides
    • Best Pool Cover Pumps
    • Best Variable Speed Pool Pumps
    • Best Pool Thermometers
    • Best Pool Test Strips
    • Best Pool Fence
    • Best Baby Floats
    • Best Bathroom Fans
    • Best Corner Shower Caddys
    • Best Pool Umbrellas
    • Best Non Slip Bath Mats
    • Best Shower Drain Hair Catchers
    • Best Tension Shower Rods
  • Blog
    • Health Benefits of a Hot Tub
    • Setting Up a Pool
    • Best Time to Buy a Pool
    • How to Prevent Algae in Pool
    • How to Heat a Pool
    • Types of Diving Boards
    • Best Time to Run a Pool Pump
    • What is a Salt Water Pool
    • How to Level Ground for Pool
    • What to Put Around Above Ground Pool
    • How Much Sand Goes in a Sand Filter for a Pool
    • Pool Filter Types
    • How to Clean Pool Filter
    • How to Clean Pool Liner
    • How to Winterize a Pool
  • About
    • Contact Us
    • Disclosure
    • Privacy Policy
    • About me

The 10 Best Above Ground Pool Heaters Reviewed in 2020

  • Steve
4.4/5 - (12 votes)

Night swimming in the summertime is one of the most enjoyable swimming experiences one can have! But what about when those summer nights have a bit of a chill to them?

Well, that’s exactly why you need the best above ground pool heater for your pool set up this summer! There are various types of heaters for your above ground pool such as heating blankets, solar units, and other high-grade heating units that connect to the pool.

Here in these above ground swimming pool heaters reviews, we’ve analyzed ten of the best pool heating products on the market. We’ve compared features such as strength, effectiveness, and durability to help you find the right heater.

The goal is to ensure that you have the best heater for your pool and not one that will fail you mid-season. Read on to decide which heater that is for you!

Contents

  • 1 Our Recommended Above Ground Pool Heaters
  • 2 10 Best Above Ground Pool Heaters:
    • 2.1 1. Blue Wave NS115 8-mil Solar Blanket for Round Above-Ground Pools
    • 2.2 2. EcoSmart SMART POOL 27
    • 2.3 3. Sun2Solar Blue 12-Foot-by-24-Foot Rectangle Solar Cover
    • 2.4 4. Fafco Solar Cub Environmentally Friendly Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Powered Heating System
    • 2.5 5. Intex Solar Cover for 18ft Diameter Easy Set and Frame Pools
    • 2.6 6. Hayward H200FDN Universal H-Series 200,000 BTU Pool and Spa Heater
    • 2.7 7. FlowXtreme NS1001 Dome 24-in Pool Solar Heater, Black
    • 2.8 8. Pentair 460805 MasterTemp High Performance Eco-Friendly Pool Heater, Natural Gas
    • 2.9 9. SmartPool SunHeater-Solar Heating System
    • 2.10 10. XtremepowerUS Inground/Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Panel
  • 3 Tips on Choosing the Best Above Ground Pool Heater
  • 4 Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Above Ground Pool Heater
  • 5 Above Ground Pool Heater FAQ
    • 5.1 Should I go the solar route?
    • 5.2 Are the natural gas heaters easy to install?
    • 5.3 How are solar blankets effective?
  • 6 Conclusion

Our Recommended Above Ground Pool Heaters

Blue Wave NS115 8-mil Solar Blanket for Round Above-Ground Pools, 21-ft, Blue
  • Check on Amazon!
  • Our Rating:
  • Retains Heat

    Long-Lasting

Jump To Full Review
EcoSmart SMART POOL 27 Electric Tankless Pool Heater, 27kW, 240 Volt, 112.5 Amps with Self Modulating Technology
  • Check on Amazon!
  • Our Rating:
  • Flow Activation

    Compatible with Ecosmart Remote Control

Jump To Full Review
Sun2Solar Blue 12-Foot-by-24-Foot Rectangle Solar Cover | 1200 Series Style | Heating Blanket for In-Ground and Above-Ground Rectangular Swimming Pools | Use Sun to Heat Pool | Face Bubble-Side Down
  • Check on Amazon!
  • Our Rating:
  • Reduces pool water evaporation by up to 95%

    Retains heat (allowing water warmth to remain longer)

Jump To Full Review

10 Best Above Ground Pool Heaters:

1. Blue Wave NS115 8-mil Solar Blanket for Round Above-Ground Pools

  • Insulating thermal cells
  • UV-protected polymer (resistant to deterioration related to chemicals and UV radiation)
  • Passive heating (raise water temperature by up to 15° F)
  • 3 Year manufacturer warranty
  • SIZE: 21-FT
View at Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

 

Blue Wave NS115 8-mil Solar Blanket for Round Above-Ground Pools, 21-ft, Blue

The first product on the list, the Blue Wave NS115 8-mil Solar Blanket, is the best solar heater for above ground pools. The heating blanket is essentially like a cover for the surface of the water. The blanket is comprised of thermal cells that transmit heat down to the pool water. It also traps heat so that the water retains its warmth longer.

Past consumers report the cover as being useful and easy to apply. Others recommend running the pump to improve efficiency but are delighted with the cover nonetheless.

Pros

  • Solar heat (no extra utility expense)
  • Easy to place on pool top
  • UV protected

Cons

  • N/A

Conclusion

The Blue Wave Solar Blanket is possibly the best pool heater for an above ground pool. It’s efficient, easy, and easy on the wallet as well. Without the need for electric, you can utilize this blanket for heated water all summer long without a single thought about the expense.

Check at Amazon!

2. EcoSmart SMART POOL 27

  • Stainless steel construction
  • Flow activation (turns on when it detects water in-flow)
  • Digital display for adjusting the temperature (increments of 1˚)
  • Compatible with EcoSmart remote control
  • Can be used as an alternative to or booster to heat pump
  • 27kW/240 Volt/112.5 Amps
View at Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

EcoSmart SMART POOL 27 Electric Tankless Pool Heater, 27kW, 240 Volt, 112.5 Amps with Self Modulating Technology

Coming in at number two is the EcoSmart Smart Pool 27 Electric Tankless Pool Heater and it’s the best electric above ground pool heater on the market. This unit by EcoSmart is an electrical unit that receives water, heats it, and pumps it back to the pool via inlet and outlet fittings.

Customers have great things to say about this electric, tankless heater. While it does require a good bit of energy, the heater is strong and heats the pool precisely to the degree desired. There are, however, conflicting reactions to the customer service of the provider.

Pros

  • Stainless steel
  • Automatic maintaining of the set temperature

Cons

  • Requires a lot of power

Conclusion

The EcoSmart Smart Pool Electric Tankless Heater is among the best rated above ground pool heaters for good reason. It’s powerful and will keep your water as warm, or even hot, as you please.

Check at Amazon!

3. Sun2Solar Blue 12-Foot-by-24-Foot Rectangle Solar Cover

  • Attractive, blue color design
  • Reduces pool water evaporation by up to 95%
  • Retains heat (allowing water warmth to remain longer)
  • Trim to fit: blanket can be cut to fit your pool size appropriately (without effecting manufacturer warranty)
  • Dimensions: 12′ wide x 24′ long
View at Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Sun2Solar Blue 12-Foot-by-24-Foot Rectangle Solar Cover | 1200 Series Style | Heating Blanket for In-Ground and Above-Ground Rectangular Swimming Pools | Use Sun to Heat Pool | Face Bubble-Side Down

The Sun2Solar Blue Rectangle Solar Cover is certainly among the best solar pool heaters for above ground pools. Much like the BlueWave product reviewed at the one spot, this heating product is a solar blanket that uses thermal bubbles to trap and transmit heat to your water. This unit, however, is able to be cut to finely fit to your pool.

Consumers have nothing but glowing reports for this heating blanket. Customers are often surprised by its efficiency in heating and also note the success of preventing pool water evaporation.

Pros

  • No associated utility expense
  • Prevents evaporation
  • Can be custom fit to your pool

Cons

  • Thermal bubbles can fall off or bust over time

Conclusion

The Sun2Solar Blue Rectangle Solar Cover is another phenomenal option for those looking for expense saving ways to heat their pool. With absolutely no utility expense, this solar blanket keeps your pool warm, prevents evaporation, and also keeps out debris. That’s hard to beat.

Check at Amazon!

4. Fafco Solar Cub Environmentally Friendly Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Powered Heating System

  • POOL HEATER: Easily heat up your above-ground swimming pool with environmentally-friendly solar panel
  • WARMS WATER: Pool pump effortlessly circulates water through the heated solar collector
  • TILTED SYSTEM: Performs most effectively when tilted 10 to 30 degrees to the South
  • FLEXIBLE MOUNTING: Conveniently mounts on the ground, on a rack, or nearby roof
  • KIT REQUIRED: Includes 1 2-foot-wide by 20-foot-long Solar Cub heating system; installation kit required
View at Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

 

Fafco Solar Cub Environmentally Friendly Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Powered Heating System, 20 Foot Long

Coming in at the five spots in these above ground heater reviews is the Fafco Solar Heating System for Above-Ground Pools. This heating unit functions similarly to solar panels but is instead one large solar collector that takes on the appearance of a long rubber mat. Similar to solar panels, water is pumped through this solar collector for heating and then returns to the pool.

Previous users love this heating product. It should be noted that heating will take some build up of sunlight at first, but after an initial solar exposure period, the pool is nice and warm.

Pros

  • Can be installed on the ground, on a rack, or on a roof
  • Very little associated utility expense
  • Long-term warranty

Cons

  • Not highly effective on low sunlight days

Conclusion

The Fafco Solar Heating System is among the best pool heaters for above ground pools because of its ease of use and feasibility. While its performance is best on sunny days, it keeps your pool more consistently heated the longer it’s exposed to sunlight.

Check at Amazon!

5. Intex Solar Cover for 18ft Diameter Easy Set and Frame Pools

  • Retains heat
  • Reduces evaporation by 95%
  • Reusable carry bag for storage
  • Lightweight material floats on the surface of the water
  • Dimensions: 18′ diameter
View at Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Intex Solar Cover for 18ft Diameter Easy Set and Frame Pools

The next heater on the list is the best solar heater for Intex above ground pools. This solar cover/blanket functions exactly as do the previously reviewed solar blankets but it’s designed specifically for Intex brand above ground pools. The thermal bubbles on the underside of the cover trap the sunlight that hits the cover and transmits that heat to the pool water.

Many past consumers are very pleased with the success of this solar cover. They love how well the solar cover works and how it’s cost-free. One user even notes that hey can be used in larger pools as heating “lily pads”.

Pros

  • Zero associated utility expense
  • Prevents pool water evaporation
  • Easy to use/store

Cons

  • Mostly suited for 18′ Intex brand above ground pools
  • May not last that long

Conclusion

The Intex Solar Cover is yet another example of a highly effective yet expense saving heater option for above ground pools. It’s easy to use, lightweight, and easily stored when not in use!

Check at Amazon!

6. Hayward H200FDN Universal H-Series 200,000 BTU Pool and Spa Heater

  • Cupro-nickel state-of-the-art Finn plate heat exchanger
  • 200,000 BTU
  • Natural gas fueled
  • Environmentally responsible (low NOx emissions reaching or exceeding air quality standards)
  • Superior hydraulic performance
  • The forced draft combustion system
  • LED digital control panel
View at Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

 

Hayward H200FDN Universal H-Series 200,000 BTU Pool and Spa Heater, Natural Gas, Low Nox

The best propane heater for above ground pools is the Hayward H200FDN Universal H-Series and slots in at the seven spots in the reviews. This heater is the largest, highest grade (technology wise) heater reviewed to this point. The unit runs on propane and works similarly to most heaters, by receiving water from the pool, heating it, and sending it back to the pool.

The consumer reviews of the unit are varied. Some claim the heater is effective and powerful yet others are upset by its short lifespan. Also noted is a lack of support on the end of Hayward.

Pros

  • Highly effective
  • Low NOx emissions

Cons

  • Runs on gas (recurring expenses)
  • Requires professional installation

Conclusion

The Hayward Universal H-Series Pool and Spa Heater is a strong heater but is only recommended for larger pools and pools with long swimming seasons. Due to its fuel source, there will be recurring expenses with this heater. Also, professional installation is required for the unit.

Check at Amazon!

7. FlowXtreme NS1001 Dome 24-in Pool Solar Heater, Black

  • Powered by sunlight - Solar rays are magnified within this heaters streamlined housing, heating up your pool water as it flows through the system.
  • Easy to install - standard, 1.25 - 1.5-in fittings provide compatibility with most above ground pools. Simply attach to your filter & pump system and let the warm water flow!
  • Extend the season - by keeping your water warm, youll have extra time for swimming with friends and family.
  • 1 Year Warranty - your product comes with a one Year manufacturer Warranty. Your item will arrive damage free with all necessary parts and accessories.
  • Dimensions: 30.8-In L x 30.8-In w x 18-in H
View at Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

FlowXtreme NS1001 Dome 24-in Pool Solar Heater, Black

The FlowXtreme NS1001 Dome Above Ground Swimming Pool Water Heater serves as a great example of small pool heaters for above ground pools. This unit is in the form of a small, square based dome. The dome contains rungs of solar heating tubes which the pool water flows through to be heated before being sent back to the point.

Customer reviews of this heating unit note that it warms up the pool, though only slightly. Some users expected this but others did not. It’s noted to be great for small pools.

Pros

  • Expense free heating
  • Environmentally safe and friendly

Cons

  • Not overly effective

Conclusion

The FlowXtreme NS1001 Dome is an innovative heating unit. It’s small so it doesn’t take up too much space around your pool and it’s cost-free for you. Don’t expect an incredible strong heater from this unit though due to its size and heating source (the sun).

Check at Amazon!

8. Pentair 460805 MasterTemp High Performance Eco-Friendly Pool Heater, Natural Gas

  • Cupro nickel heat exchanger
  • 400,000 BTU
  • Compact and quiet
  • Tough, rust-proof exterior
  • Certified low NOx emissions
  • Rotating digital display
View at Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Pentair 460805 MasterTemp High Performance Eco-Friendly Pool Heater, Natural Gas, 400,000 BTU, Heavy Duty

The Pentair 460805 MasterTemp High-Performance Eco-Friendly Pool Heater is a heavy duty, natural gas heater for your pool.

This heater unit, like the Hayward unit, is larger than most others on this list as it performs at a higher standard. As with pretty much every heating product on the list, water enters the unit through an inlet and returns to the pull via outlet hose.

Just as with the Hayward heating unit, customer reviews are rather mixed. Some love the heater and claim it’s great for the job. Others have noted a very short lifespan from the unit and poor customer service regarding such failure.

Pros

  • Very strong heater (400,000 BTU)
  • Certified NOx emissions standards

Cons

  • Runs on fuel (recurring expense)
  • Manual gas shut-off when servicing

Conclusion

The Pentair MasterTemp High-Performance Eco-Friendly Pool Heater is a high-grade unit that’s meant to deliver exact temperature heating. The unit runs quietly but does come with the downside of refueling and the associated costs.

Check at Amazon!

9. SmartPool SunHeater-Solar Heating System

  • Polypropylene heat collector
  • Solar heater features 2 threaded-elbow adapters
  • End caps, stainless steel hose clamps, Teflon tape, hoses for the second collector
  • Trilingual installation/operation manual (English/French/Spanish)
  • Ordering guide for round pools: 12 to 18′ – 1 box, 21 to 24′ – 2 boxes, 27 to 28′ – 3 boxes
  • Dimensions: 2′ wide x 20′ long
View at Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

SmartPool SunHeater-Solar Heating System

Capping off our list of bets above ground swimming pool heaters is the SmartPool SunHeater Solar Heating System. This solar heating unit functions similarly to the Fafsco solar collector.

The solar collectors can be installed on the ground, a rack, or a roof and operate by circulating water through the heat collectors.

Past customers love this solar heating system. Most note being pleased about the ability to continue swimming on and into the chillier days of the season.

Pros

  • Low associated utility expenses
  • Versatile installation

Cons

  • More than one set could be necessary for your pool

Conclusion

The SmartPool SunHeater Solar Heating System is another great solar option for warming your pool water. The heat is free and the maintenance once installed is close to none.

Check at Amazon!

10. XtremepowerUS Inground/Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Panel

  • High-grade, weather resistant materials (durable black polypropylene)
  • Designed for use with above ground and in-ground pools
  • Dimensions: 2′ wide x 20′ long
  • Quantity of these solar panels needed is dependent on the pool size and the location, which may estimate by some websites.
  • Diverter kit may be required for pumps 1.5hp and greater.
View at Amazon

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

XtremepowerUS Inground/Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Panel Heating System 28" X 20'

The best above ground solar pool heater in the reviews comes in as the third best heating unit. The XtremepowerUS Inground/Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Panel Heating System is as its name insinuates, a different type of solar heat than a heat blanket. This system is a full set of panels which receives pool water from the pool’s pump for heating before returning to the pool.

Consumers are generally happy and satisfied with the functioning of these heating panels. Some do note that installation can be a bit of a task and requires some handy work. Also, they’re meant to last but some past users do report panel breakdown/deterioration.

Pros

  • Number of panels depends on your pool size (no wasted or excess panels)
  • Low utility expense and low annual maintenance

Cons

  • Diverter kit may be required for pumps 1.5 hp and greater
  • Soft bodied panels

Conclusion

The XtremepowerUS Inground/Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Panel Heating System is the heating unit for you if you’re looking to heat your pool efficiently while keeping utility expenses low. Additionally, they rarely require maintenance so they operate without any help from you, providing you more time to relax.

Check at Amazon!

Tips on Choosing the Best Above Ground Pool Heater

  • Research heating options
    best above ground pool heater
    Courtesy of Chris Grazioli

As we can conclude from the list, there are various options for heating your pool. Some of coming with more lifetime costs and some come with zero added expense. This first tip is all about researching the various models to learn about the ins and outs of their functioning.

By researching specific heater options and comparing them side by side, you’ll be able to better grasp the details in each one that sets them apart.

There also may be terms and vocabulary related to pool heating that you’re not upon. It’s best to look up whatever you’re unsure about to prevent any misunderstandings and potential future regrets.

  • Ask other pool owners for opinions/information

Swimming is one of the most common spring and summer activities there are. Because of this, you likely have acquaintances who have pools of their own or who know others they could put you in contact with.

That being said, they can give you some of the best, primary information regarding their experiences with pool heaters and how they function. While you don’t want to be playing a game of 20 questions, don’t hesitate to seek out information from this treasure trove of knowledge.

  • Pay attention to brandsBest Above Ground Pool Heaters

A final tip would be to pay attention to the brands behind the heaters. It can be limited to the only search out certain brands and their products, and that’s certainly not the suggestion here. Instead, what we mean is that you should note the brand behind the product and gather information on them.

This means doing a simple internet search to determine credibility and the company’s responsiveness, etc. Buying a cheap or malfunctioning product can be a pain, but that pain can grow if the brand behind the product goes missing in action regarding their customer service.

Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Above Ground Pool Heater

  • Your pool and space

The first factor to consider before buying an above ground pool heater is your pool and space. The shape and size of your pool are important in the shopping process. Certain heaters, such as solar blankets, are generally fitted for specifically sized and shaped pools.

Other models, such as the solar collector mat models, may require you to buy more than one set to properly heat your pool if it’s large. In the same vein, you want to be sure your space is suited for the heater of your choice.

Solar-based heaters require direct sunlight for the majority of the day. Does your yard get plenty of direct sunlight? Is your roof (for panels) reasonably close to the pool? For gas-fueled heaters, do you have a specific area viable for installation? All of these factors of your space are going to play a part in your decision.

best above ground solar pool heater

  • The desired magnitude of heating

The next factor to consider is the magnitude of heat that you’re looking for. The solar-based models are generally weaker at heating the entire pool because of the reliance on proper sunlight, though it heavily depends on the make and model.

The high-grade units, such as the Hayward and Pentair models, will provide strong heating at pretty exact temperatures chosen by yourself. Some folks are looking to extend the swimming season while others are simply looking to take off the cold edge of the water. Knowing which type of heat you’re in need of will help you to narrow your options.

  • Customer reviews

A final factor to consider before buying your above ground pool heater is other customers’ reviews. While you don’t want to put too much stock in them, it’s good practice to peruse the reviews and comments on products to see if there are any recurring issues or consensus opinions about products and their functioning.

If there’s a major issue with the product you’re looking into, it’s most likely to make itself known to you via customer reviews and comments. After all, no company would describe its product missteps and miscalculations.

best pool heaters for above ground pools

Above Ground Pool Heater FAQ

Should I go the solar route?

  • This question boils down to whether or not you’re looking for super-powerful pool heating and your stance on extra utility expenses. Solar heaters operate best when they’ve been basking in sunlight for extended periods of time, which evades them as the weather turns colder again.However, solar panels will provide comfortable warmth through those chilly summer nights, and at no extra expense. So if you’re looking for something to take the edge off practically free, solar heating is your best bet.

Are the natural gas heaters easy to install?

  • Unfortunately, the gas-fueled above ground pool heaters are not easy installs. They typically require the hand of a professional. There are surely some people out there who may be capable, but for the hands-off among us, definitely call in a professional helping hand. Also, in addition to their difficult install, you’re continually hit with the expense of refueling the units.

How are solar blankets effective?

  • In concept, think about the way that blankets and covers keep us warm when they encompass us. They trap heat and deflect it back at our bodies, keeping us warm. It’s the same with solar blankets for pools except that the heat comes from the sun and is transmitted through the blanket. This keeps the water warm. By allowing sunlight in before trapping it, the blankets are capable of keeping your pool warm through the night until you’re ready to again the next day!

Want to get your above ground pool ready for the summer season without hard searches? So you in the right place! Here at Poolhomeschool, you can find everything you need! Pool ladders, floating pool lights, pool covers and even above ground swimming pools. Your preparation summer season nearly complete.

Conclusion

As with most pool accessories and parts, the best above ground pool heater for you largely depends on what kind of pool you have and how you wish to heat it. There are heating options available for all types of interests.

First, there are the solar options that are environmentally friendly and reduce heating expenses to zero. Next, there are the electronic heaters that are very effective but require extra energy, and thus, more utility costs. And for the high powered, high-grade tech fanatics, there’s the natural gas-fueled heater units.

No matter the type of pool you have, these above ground swimming pool heater reviews should go a long way in aiding you with your shopping experience.

By dissecting the details and specs of various models, we’ve laid the groundwork for you to start making direct comparisons and figuring out which option is best for you. The swim season’s upon us and right about now would be the perfect time to start heating that pool. Get your above ground pool heater today!

Pool Home School
Copyright © 2020 PoolHomeSchool. All RIGHTS RESERVED.PoolHomeSchool is a participant of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program – it is designed to provide an aid for the websites in earning an advertisement fee – by means of advertising and linking to Amazon.com products.