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10 Best Electric Pool Heater 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Aquastrong 75,000 BTU Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump, 21,000 Gallons Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground and Inground Pool, WiFi Capable Timer, Heating and Cooling Pool Heater 220V

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,453
Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Size and Installation Requirements

Most important from
13 reviews

Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Works better than expected, keeping the pool at 85°F even when it's 65°F outside.
Size and Installation Requirements
For optimal performance, use a water flow meter and a 3-way water diverter to set the water flow correctly.

The Aquastrong 75,000 BTU Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump is designed for both above-ground and inground pools, capable of handling pools up to 21,000 gallons. It features a dual-mode system that can heat and cool, maintaining water temperatures between 47–104℉ for heating and 47–83℉ for cooling. This makes it ideal for extending your swimming season into cooler months.

One standout feature is its energy efficiency, boasting a 15.8 COP which translates to significant energy savings—up to 70% compared to traditional electric heaters and 40% more efficient than gas systems. It uses full DC variable frequency technology, which dynamically adjusts the power in real-time to optimize performance and efficiency. The unit is also equipped with WiFi capabilities, allowing you to control and monitor the heater via an app, which is convenient for adjusting temperatures and scheduling heating cycles remotely.

Additionally, it operates quietly at just 53 dB, and features an auto-defrost system that ensures continuous operation even in winter, defrosting every 40 minutes for just 5 minutes at a time. In terms of installation, the heat pump offers versatile connection options and is relatively easy to set up, supported by a 3-year warranty for added peace of mind. Its size and weight (218 pounds) might pose a challenge for some users during installation. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Aquastrong 75,000 BTU Inverter Heat Pump stands out as a robust and efficient solution for maintaining comfortable pool temperatures year-round.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,453
Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Size and Installation Requirements

Most important from
13 reviews

Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Works better than expected, keeping the pool at 85°F even when it's 65°F outside.
Size and Installation Requirements
For optimal performance, use a water flow meter and a 3-way water diverter to set the water flow correctly.
#2

Aquastrong 35,000 BTU Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump, 9,000 Gallons Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground and Inground Pool, WiFi Capable Timer, Heating and Cooling Pool Heater 120V

Rating
9.6
Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency
Size and Installation Requirements

Most important from
13 reviews

Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Heats up the pool incredibly fast, raising water temperature by 15 degrees in just 24 hours.
Energy Efficiency
Highly energy-efficient with a COP of 15.2, making it a cost-effective heating solution.
Size and Installation Requirements
Installation is straightforward despite the unit's weight, thanks to a clear manual and multiple connection options.
Control Features
The touch screen display and smartphone app make temperature control and scheduling convenient and user-friendly.
Noise Level
The unit operates very quietly, maintaining a peaceful pool environment.

The Aquastrong 35,000 BTU Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump is a versatile electric pool heater designed for both above-ground and in-ground pools, suitable for pools up to 9,000 gallons. With a dual-mode system for both heating and cooling, it maintains water temperatures ranging from 47–104℉, making it ideal for extending your swim season into cooler months.

The rapid heating feature, combined with a control panel and smartphone app, allows for convenient temperature adjustments and scheduling, providing flexibility and ease of use. The unit is highly energy-efficient, boasting a 15.8 COP, which translates to significant energy savings compared to traditional electric and gas heaters. Its intelligent inverter technology also ensures quiet operation at just 48 dB, which is a plus for maintaining a peaceful pool environment. The auto-defrost function is particularly useful for uninterrupted winter use.

Installation is simplified with multiple connection options, and the cast iron build suggests good durability. However, at 116.8 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which might pose challenges during installation. Additionally, it's important to note that the product comes with a 3-year warranty, offering some peace of mind. While it ranks well in popularity and customer reviews, potential buyers should consider their specific pool size and installation capabilities to ensure a good fit for their needs.

Rating
9.6
Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency
Size and Installation Requirements

Most important from
13 reviews

Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Heats up the pool incredibly fast, raising water temperature by 15 degrees in just 24 hours.
Energy Efficiency
Highly energy-efficient with a COP of 15.2, making it a cost-effective heating solution.
Size and Installation Requirements
Installation is straightforward despite the unit's weight, thanks to a clear manual and multiple connection options.
Control Features
The touch screen display and smartphone app make temperature control and scheduling convenient and user-friendly.
Noise Level
The unit operates very quietly, maintaining a peaceful pool environment.
#3

Hayward W3H250FDN Universal H-Series 250,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater for In-Ground Pools and Spas

Rating
9.4
Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency
Size and Installation Requirements

Most important from
519 reviews

Heating Capacity (BTUs)
The heater warmed our pool from 65°F to 80°F overnight, making it perfect for extending the swimming season into colder months.
Energy Efficiency
Even with daily use, the gas bill only increased by about $60, which is reasonable for the added comfort.
Size and Installation Requirements
Installation can be a significant project, involving running gas lines and potentially professional help, but the end result is worth it for the extended swimming season.
Durability and Build Quality
After 17 years of reliable performance from an older model, the new version was easy to install and works flawlessly.

The Hayward W3H250FDN Universal H-Series 250,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater is designed for in-ground pools and spas, offering a substantial heating capacity of 250,000 BTUs. This capacity ensures fast and efficient heating, making it suitable for larger pools and spa areas. The durable cupro nickel heat exchanger is a standout feature, providing excellent resistance against corrosion, which is especially beneficial if your pool water chemistry isn’t always perfectly balanced. This durability means the heater is likely to have a long lifespan with proper maintenance.

Energy efficiency is another strong point, thanks to the industry's leading hydraulic design that reduces circulation pump run time, contributing to significant energy savings. For ease of use, the heater has a front-panel-only access and intuitive control pad, simplifying operation, service, and maintenance. This makes it user-friendly even for those who might not be very hands-on with technical equipment. Additionally, the unit meets low NOx emissions standards, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to some other models on the market.

However, the size and weight of the heater are considerable, with dimensions of 33.3 x 32.8 x 30.6 inches and a weight of 165 pounds. This means that proper space planning and possibly professional installation may be necessary. The Hayward W3H250FDN is a robust and efficient choice for those needing a reliable heating solution for their in-ground pools and spas, but its size and weight might require some consideration during installation.

Rating
9.4
Heating Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency
Size and Installation Requirements

Most important from
519 reviews

Heating Capacity (BTUs)
The heater warmed our pool from 65°F to 80°F overnight, making it perfect for extending the swimming season into colder months.
Energy Efficiency
Even with daily use, the gas bill only increased by about $60, which is reasonable for the added comfort.
Size and Installation Requirements
Installation can be a significant project, involving running gas lines and potentially professional help, but the end result is worth it for the extended swimming season.
Durability and Build Quality
After 17 years of reliable performance from an older model, the new version was easy to install and works flawlessly.

Buying Guide for the Best Electric Pool Heater

Choosing the right electric pool heater can make a significant difference in your swimming experience, extending your pool season and ensuring comfortable water temperatures. When selecting an electric pool heater, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and enjoy your pool to the fullest.
Heating Capacity (BTUs)Heating capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), indicates the amount of heat the heater can produce. This spec is crucial because it determines how quickly and effectively the heater can warm your pool. Heaters with higher BTUs can heat larger pools or heat water more quickly. For small to medium-sized pools, a heater with 50,000 to 100,000 BTUs may suffice. For larger pools, you might need a heater with 100,000 to 400,000 BTUs. Consider the size of your pool and how quickly you want it heated when choosing the right capacity.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency refers to how effectively the heater converts electricity into heat. This is important because a more efficient heater will use less electricity, saving you money on energy bills. Look for heaters with a high Coefficient of Performance (COP) rating, which indicates better efficiency. A COP of 5 or higher is considered very efficient. If you are environmentally conscious or want to reduce operating costs, prioritize energy-efficient models.
Size and Installation RequirementsThe physical size of the heater and its installation requirements are important to consider, especially if you have limited space. Some heaters are compact and can be installed in tight spaces, while others require more room. Additionally, check if the heater needs specific electrical connections or additional equipment. Ensure you have enough space and the necessary infrastructure to accommodate the heater you choose.
Control FeaturesControl features refer to the options available for setting and adjusting the heater's operation. Modern heaters often come with digital controls, programmable timers, and remote control capabilities. These features can enhance convenience and allow you to maintain your desired pool temperature effortlessly. If you prefer easy and precise control over your pool's heating, look for models with advanced control features.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality are indicators of how long the heater will last and how well it will withstand the elements. This is important because a durable heater will require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan. Look for heaters made from high-quality materials, such as corrosion-resistant metals and weatherproof components. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, prioritize models known for their durability.
Noise LevelNoise level refers to how much sound the heater produces during operation. This is important if you want a quiet and peaceful pool environment. Some heaters are designed to operate quietly, while others may produce more noise. If noise is a concern for you, look for models that are specifically marketed as quiet or have noise-reducing features.

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