Above-ground pools offer you the convenience of having a pool to keep cool during the hot summer months at a fraction of the cost of building a pool. Not to mention, they are easier to clean and maintain. And you can move with them as compared to an in-ground pool.
However, heating an above ground pool is tricky. On account of the exposed wall, the water loses heat faster as compared to an in-ground pool. For this reason, you need a heater that can heat the water quickly so that it can have more cycles for optimal heating.
This means you need to get an efficient pool heater and energy saving as the more cycles will tend to consume more electricity. Here are the best above ground pool heaters in the market currently.
Top 5 Above Ground Pool Heater
| Name | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| GAME 4721-BB SolarPRO Curve Solar Pool Heater | - Gradual solar heater - Adjustable legs for better solar angling - Additional pump may be required | Check Price |
| Hayward H150FDN Universal H-Series | - Natural gas - 150,000 BTU - Requires 110v or 220v electric hook up | Check Price |
| Blue Wave NS105 8-mil Solar Blanket | Insulating thermal cells pool blanket | Check Price |
| SunHeater S120U Universal Solar Pool Heater | - Solar powered - Additional pump may be required | Check Price |
| EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 Electric Tankless Pool Heater | - Electric - 18kW, 240 Volt, 75 Amps - Self modulating technology | Check Price |
GAME 4721-BB SolarPRO Curve Solar Pool Heater
This solar above ground pool heat pump increases the pool temperature by 5 degrees in 4 days. It has an upper limit of 8,000-gallons. The heater has been engineered with a unique curved shape that maximizes heat collection. The treaded ports have been added for versatile plumbing options.
It has adjustable legs, and it is compatible with Intex, Bestway, and most above and inground pools. The flexible and foldable legs allow the heater to be set for maximum exposure to the sun, along with a transparent cover that locks in heat.
Features
- 8000-gallon pool upper limit
- Treaded ports
- Adjustable legs
- Unique curved shape
- Solar heating
Pros
- Durable construction
- High-quality
- Increases the pool temperature by 5 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons
- The legs cave under the weight of the water
Hayward H150FDN Universal H-Series
This heater features a standard Cupro nickel heat exchanger. It has a patented polymer header and bypass valve design for the ultimate hydraulic efficiency and reliability. It is easy to install and is
environmentally responsible due to its low NOx emissions. It meets and exceeds air quality emission standards in all Low NOx regions.
The 150,000 BTU natural gas heater combines advanced technology with universal-fit flexibility. Making it the perfect pool heater for new or existing installations.
Its design offers left-side or right-side electric, gas and water connections, with 110v or 220v electric hook up. It has a lightweight design and a modern low-profile appearance.
It is compatible with virtually all new or existing systems and equipment pad configurations. And it has an easy to use digital LED control panel along with industry-leading hydraulic performance for reduced circulation time, which saves up to 18 percent of energy by reducing pump run-time. Lastly, it comes with a 1-year warranty.
Features
- Standard Cupro nickel heat exchanger for
- meet or exceed air quality emission standards
- 150,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater
- CPVC union plumbing connections
- 1-year warranty
- Patented polymer header
- Bypass valve design
- Propane model
Pros
- Up to 18 percent savings by reducing pump run-time
- Easy installation
- Universal fit
- Environmentally friendly
- Lightweight design
- Modern low-profile appearance
- Low NOx emissions
Cons
- The pipes leak at connector junctions
Blue Wave NS105 8-mil Solar Blanket
The Bluewater tankless water heater for above-ground pools is a solar blanket that retains heat using insulating thermal cells that trap heat and retain warmth on cool, cloudy days. Allowing you to swim in warmer water all summer long as well as on cool nights. It is made using a UV-protected polymer that is resistant to the deterioration caused by chemicals and UV radiation.
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It is 8-millimeter thick, and it uses passive solar energy to raise your swimming pool’s temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. It comes with a 3-year manufacturer warranty. The blanket has an opaque, blue color that allows the maximum amount of sunlight to reach the water.
The blanket also reduces water and chemical evaporation by up to 95%.
Features
- Insulating thermal cells
- 8-millimeter thickness
- Opaque, blue color
- UV-protected
- 3-year warranty
Pros
- Retains heat
- High-quality
- Raises temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit
- Prevent up to 95% of pool water and chemical evaporation
- Durable
Cons
- The raised bubbles shed into your pool
SunHeater S120U Universal Solar Pool Heater
This above ground pool solar heater is a simple DIY installation project that can be handled by one individual without previous experience. The heater works great for in-ground or above ground pools. The heater can be installed on a roof, rack, the ground, or a fence.
It features a patented web design for maximum exposure to the sun’s rays. It uses existing pool pumps to push heated water. And it raises pool water temperature by 6-10 degrees Fahrenheit, which can add weeks to your pool season. It works with a sand filter as well as saltwater systems.
Features
- Patented web design
- Uses existing pool pump
- Raises pool water temperature 6-10 degrees F
- Solar heating system
Pros
- Installs on roof, rack, ground or fence
- Cost-effective
- Works with a sand filter
Cons
- Does not have enough pressure to heat an above ground pool
EcoSmart SMART POOL 18 Electric Tankless Pool Heater
The Ecosmart above ground saltwater pool heater uses the latest flow sensor technology instead of the traditional pressure switch activation to pump water. The flow activation
reduces the risk of burned elements, which increases its reliability and longevity.
The pool heater is compact, and it barely takes up any space by your poolside. It is also easy to install for a new or existing pool. It comes with a digital thermostat control so you can set the temperature exactly where you want it. You can also set your temperature digitally to increments of 1-Degree. The heater is compatible with Eco smart remote control, and it can be used as an alternative to or booster to a heat pump.
Features
- Compatible with Ecosmart remote control
- Flow sensor technology
- Digital thermostat control
Pros
- Compact design
- Easy to install
- Temperature can be controlled digitally
- Reliable and long-lasting
Cons
- Draws too much electricity dimming house lights when in use
Conclusion
The best above ground pool heater should be energy efficient, have proper controls to allow for temperature regulation, and be able to heat both saltwater pools and chlorine pools. Take all these factors into consideration and consult a pool expert if need be. If you are still doubtful, consider one of the pool heater options reviewed above.