12 best gas spa heaters
Gas spa heaters are devices designed to heat the water in a spa or hot tub using natural gas or propane as a fuel source. They are commonly used to maintain the desired water temperature for relaxation and therapeutic purposes. Gas spa heaters are a popular choice due to their rapid heating capabilities and efficiency. Here are some key points about gas spa heaters:
Fuel Source: Gas spa heaters primarily use either natural gas or propane as their fuel source. They are connected to a gas line to provide the necessary energy for heating the water.
Heating Capacity: Gas spa heaters can quickly raise the water temperature, making them ideal for on-demand heating.They are capable of heating the water to the desired temperature in a relatively short time, allowing users to enjoy their spa or hot tub without long waiting periods.
Efficiency: Gas heaters are known for their efficiency in heating water. They can maintain the desired temperature even in colder weather conditions, making them suitable for year-round use.
Size and Installation: Gas spa heaters come in various sizes to accommodate different spa and hot tub sizes. Proper installation is essential to ensure safety and efficient operation. It's important to hire a professional for installation to ensure compliance with safety standards and local regulations.
Controls: Most gas spa heaters come with user-friendly controls that allow for easy temperature adjustments and monitoring. Some models may also offer advanced features such as digital displays and remote control options.
Safety Features: Gas spa heaters are equipped with safety features like automatic shut-off systems in case of overheating or gas leaks. Regular maintenance and inspection are crucial to ensure these safety mechanisms are functioning correctly.
Cost of Operation: The cost of operating a gas spa heater can vary depending on factors like fuel prices and usage patterns. It's important to consider both the initial purchase price and the ongoing operational costs when choosing a heater for your spa or hot tub.
Environmental Considerations: While gas spa heaters are efficient, they do produce emissions as a byproduct of combustion. Some users may prefer alternative heating methods like heat pumps or solar heaters for more environmentally friendly options.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance, including cleaning and inspecting the unit, is essential to ensure the longevity and efficient operation of a gas spa heater. This may include checking for gas leaks, cleaning burners, and replacing any worn-out parts.
Gas spa heaters are a reliable and effective choice for heating your spa or hot tub. However, it's essential to carefully consider your specific needs, local regulations, and budget when selecting a heater for your outdoor relaxation area. Regular maintenance and safety precautions should always be a top priority to ensure safe and enjoyable spa experiences.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best gas spa heaters on the market
Hayward W3H150FDP Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Pool and Spa Heater, Propane
Hayward
Product description
Hayward’s Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Propane Gas Pool & Spa Heater provides reliable, long-lasting comfort. Built with a durable cupro nickel heat exchanger, it offers exceptional protection against corrosion and premature failure caused by unbalanced water chemistry, ensuring you get season after season of premium heating performance. The Universal H-Series boasts industry-leading hydraulic performance coupled with lightning-fast speed-to-heat capability—giving you less time to wait and more time in the water. Its low NOx emissions meet air quality standards in all low-NOx areas, so you can rest easy knowing its environmental impact is low, too.
- The Hayward Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Propane Heater delivers premium heating performance for years of reliable, long-lasting comfort
- A durable cupro nickel heat exchanger offers exceptional protection against corrosion and premature failure caused by unbalanced water chemistry
- Industry-leading hydraulic design reduces circulation pump run time to provide major energy savings
- Front-panel-only access and intuitive control pad provide easy operation, service and maintenance
- Low NOx emissions meet air quality standards in all low-NOx areas, ensuring low environmental impact
User questions & answers
| Question: | gas consumption of the model 150, per first hour running at full capacity |
| Answer: | I have the 250 - it uses a lot of propane. I go thru about 5-10lbs per hour. I am heating my water to 85 degrees |
| Question: | How long would the 150,000 BTU take to heat only our attached hot tub |
| Answer: | We heat our pool which is 26,000 gallons 1-2 degrees and hour. We are very happy with it! |
| Question: | Is it worth the time and money to rebuild my 10 year old h250ped2 or buy a new one |
| Answer: | Buy a new one. They are so much more efficient. I worked on my old pool heater until it caught fire. The new one is so much safer and problem free. |
| Question: | Does this heater come with any warranties |
| Answer: | Theoretically, yes, BUT getting Hayward to honor them is very, very, VERY nearly impossible. Had I not bought from a retailer where I was able to reach a live person who then went to bat for me, I would have been left with Hayward shrugging and saying they had no warranty providers in my STATE. Seriously. (I have to say that, had I known then what I know now about Hayward propane heaters, I would have stayed with my prior electric pool heater and spent the money switching over my hot water heater to gas instead.) |
Product features
Universal H-Series Propane Heaters
An efficiently heated pool or spa lets you control your swim season and provides luxurious comfort that fits your lifestyle. Universal H-Series heaters from Hayward offer hydraulically efficient solutions for any pool or spa. They also are environmentally responsible because of their low NOx emissions so you can enjoy efficient luxury and peace of mind - season after season.
Cupro Nickel State-of-the-art Finn Plate Heat Exchanger
Only Hayward constructs ALL heat exchangers of highly resilient Cupro Nickel for greater durability and longevity even in salt-based, high flow or aggressive water chemistry conditions.
Superior Hydraulic Performance and Reliability
Patented polymer header design provides superior hydraulic performance to save energy and protect against the damaging effects of erosion from high flow conditions to further improve reliability.
Forced Draft Combustion System
The Forced draft combustion system constantly moves air through the combustion chamber at a precise flow rate, eliminating all outside weather variables that can affect heating performance, such as high wind conditions.
L.E.D. Digital Control Panel
Intuitive and easy to read L.E.D. Control Panel provides digital temperature readout, diagnostics and electronic 'lock-out' of temperature set-point. Digital control accuracy saves time and money getting the pool to the perfect temperature.
Raypak 105,000 BTU Swimming Pool and Spa Heater - Propane
Raypak
Product description
Raypak 014781 - 106A Propane Pool Heater is 105,000 BTU and uses 120V or 240V for installation. This unit is rated for 0-1999ft Elevation and uses corrosion Polymer Headers. The Raypak 106A is the perfect choice for above-ground pools and spas. Raypak is the only manufacturer of this size heater to use all the engineering and components utilized in our bigger gas heaters. The unit is fully serviceable and built for years of operation. This may be our smallest pool and spa heater, but it's built
- Designed for easy installation on above ground pools, smaller in-ground pools, and spas
- Standard 120v 3-prong power cord or can be easily converted to 220v
- Simple analog thermostat dial for accurate pool and spa temperature setting
- Gas connection is 1/2" NPT and measures 4 5/8" off the ground level
- Unit measures 27.5" H x 12" wide X 24" Deep
Pentair 075457 Valve Replacement Natural Gas MiniVolt Pool and Spa Heater
Pentair
Product description
Pentair 075457 Valve Replacement Natural Gas MiniVolt Pool and Spa Heater
- This Valve Is Designed To Use With Pentair Minimax Ch, Minimax Plus Natural Gas Minivolts Pool And Spa Heaters Models 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400
- Valve Replacement
- Fits Pentair Minimax Ch, Minimax Plus Natural Gas Minivolts Pool And Spa Heaters Models 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400
- Country Of Origin: United States
User questions & answers
| Question: | What type of problems were you having, and how did you troubleshoot to determine it was the gas valve |
| Answer: | Gas going in valve none coming out with millivolt meter had powere to it |
| Question: | can i replace an existing electric heater with this one |
| Answer: | No |
Pentair 460736 MasterTemp High Performance Eco-Friendly Pool Heater, Natural Gas, 400,000 BTU
Pentair
Product description
MasterTemp High Performance Pool Heater, Natural Gas, 400, 000 BTU
From the Manufacturer
MasterTemp Heaters offer all the efficiency, convenience, and reliability features you want in a pool heater, plus a lot more fast heat-up, compact design, super quiet operation and easy to use.
- Compact and quiet heater for pool or spa
- Certified for low Nitrogen Oxide emissions; tough, rust-proof exterior
- Rotating digital display allows for easy viewing; manual gas shut-off when service is required
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does anyone cover their pentair over the winter months? live in ny, so our pool is closed from mid-october until may |
| Answer: | I think in your climate it is advisable to cover the pool heater in winter. I’m f you aren’t using your pool, you should drain the heater as well. |
| Question: | Where made |
| Answer: | Hell !! |
| Question: | Does this model (732) have cupronickel-nickel heat exchange? It looks like the model with Copper |
| Answer: | As stated in the Pentair website, the HD has the cupronickel heat exchanger... 82% efficient. This model is not a HD (heavy duty) model. |
| Question: | What size pool will this be suitable for |
| Answer: | This becomes a math exercise. 1 gallon of water weights ABOUT 8 pounds. It takes 1 Btu to raise that one pound of water by 1 degree F. Also consider that a 250,000 Btu heater actually will only deliver ABOUT 82% of that input Btu because it is not 100% efficient. So, multiply the number of gallons your pool holds by 8. This is the quantity of Btu you require to raise your pool 1 degree F. Example: I have a 12,000 gallon pool which equates to about 96,000 pounds of water. So a 250,000 Btu heater delivering (0.82 x 250,000) 205,000 Btu will raise my pool about 2 degrees in one hour (205,000 divided by 96,000). Also consider that the natural gas line to your home has a certain capacity (in Btu or Therms (100,000 Btu)). |
Raypak 014784 PR156AENC 150000 BTU Natural Gas Heater
Raypak
Product description
Raypak 014784 - 156A Natural Gas Pool Heater is 150,000 BTU and uses 120V or 240V for installation. This unit is rated for 0-4999ft Elevation and uses corrosion Polymer Headers. The Raypak 156A is the perfect choice for above-ground pools and spas. Raypak is the only manufacturer of this size heater to use all the engineering and components utilized in our bigger gas heaters. The unit is fully serviceable and built for years of operation. This may be our smaller sized pool and spa heater, but
- Polyester-Coated, non-corrosive external cabinet for added durability.
- Doesn't require fans to combat drafting problems.
- Polymer headers prevent rust stains on your pool or spa surface.
- All-Copper-Fin-Tube Heat Exchanger. Made from a single piece of extruded copper.
- State of the art diagnostic reporting and fault recording.
Raypak PR266AEN 266K BTU Electonic Natural Gas Swimming Pool Heater | 009217
Raypak
Product description
PolyTuf Textured Powder Coating The Raypak gas heater has a polyester coated,non corrosive cabinet that is more durable than solventborne and waterborne coated metal cabinets. Every piece of sheet metal goes through a 7 stage wash system. making certain the power paint has a perfect bond. Underneath the tough, yet beautiful finish you will galvanized metal that offers superior rust prevention and years of durable service. Wind Resistant Design No need for fans to combat drafting problems under normal conditions. This heater is designed to draft naturally in outdoor installations with its exclusive low profile design. It is so thoughtfully and carefully designed it actually protects itself from the things that tend to stifle ordinary pool and spa heaters. It delivers uninterrupted heating performance regardless of falling leaves, wind, airborne debris, rain, downdrafts, updrafts, sleet, snow, etc. Cast Iron Headers Rugged cast iron headers with porcelainized waterways provide the strength that tough ASME requirements demand. All Copper Fin Tube Heat Exchanger The fin tubes of the heat exchanger are each made from a single piece of extruded copper. This integral fin design allows maximum heat transfer to be attained and maintained. Cupro nickel is also available as an optional upgrade. Condensation Protection The Unitherm Governor inside the header helps reduce condensation from low inlet water temperatures. It automatically regulates the water flow to help keep the water temperature in the heat exchanger above 105°F. Both water temperature and water flow rate are controlled to eliminate condensation, sooting, and scale build up that can shorten heater life. Fuel Efficient Energy smart Raypak heaters consistently achieve the highest efficiency ratings. They exceed all federal and state standards.
- Digital control with liquid crystal display (LCD) for temperature selection and heater settings
- Capron resin headers prevent rust stains from harming pool surface
- Plumb directly from provided 2" PVC threaded union
- Smart microprocessor controls diagnostic read out and continuously monitors operating status
- High efficiency, Small footprint
User questions & answers
| Question: | Error code 2 fault hi limit how do you repair |
| Answer: | Unplug the power from the unit for 5 minuets |
| Question: | How many years of service can I expect from a model 266A |
| Answer: | I have the previous version of this and parts are beginning to fail after 15 years. I'm replacing with the 406A this week if that's representative of their durability. |
| Question: | What are the dimnensiobs if this unit? I already have a concrete pad and I want to make sure it will fit |
| Answer: | 2 foot wide by 3 foot long |
| Question: | Does this heater work at an altitude of 5000 feet |
| Answer: | No, on their website it states it is for elevations 2000ft or less. |
Sta-Rite SR333NA Max-E-Therm Pool And Spa Heater, Natural Gas, 333,000 BTU
Product description
For indoor or outdoor installations on pools and spas. Features include an LED temperature readout with dual thermostat controls, temperature safety lockout, and 6-position control panel. PMG burner technology requires no outdoor draft hood. Proven Dura-Glas rust-proof construction with plastic manifold and PVC union connections. Heavy-duty unit with cupro-nickel exchanger stands up to the harshest of applications, like low pH, high flow or heavy use.
- Lightweight - Lightest heater in its class
- Compact Design - Ideal for retro-fit installation
- Lower Operating Costs - 84% efficiency rating - rated 1st in its class for highest energy efficiency
- Rustproof Housing Sleek, matte black enclosure is made of Dura-Glass - an exclusive Sta-Rite material that handles the heat and weathers the elements
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will the gas and water lines match up if i replace a 200btu unit with a 400btu unit |
| Answer: | No, you need to up size gas line |
| Question: | I have a aqualink rs6 control system. will the sta rite sr333na work with the rs6? do i need a converter |
| Answer: | Why wouldn’t it? |
| Question: | What does the diamater of the gas line need to be for the 200,000 btu heater |
| Answer: | I ran 1 inch black pipe which is the size of pipe off my gas meter. I also added an extra shutoff in my basement, and another at the heater. |
| Question: | Are you an authorized dealer with full warranty? Is this suitable for a salt water pool system |
| Answer: | It's rated for salt-water systems. I am not a dealer. |
Hayward CSPAXI11 11 Kilowatt Electric Spa Heater
Product description
Hayward CSPAXI11 Electric Spa Heater, 11-Killowatts. Hayward electric spa heaters contain all of the sophisticated features and capabilities of heaters twice their size. The electric heaters fit into compact spaces - even under spa skirts or steps. Like all Hayward heaters, they are easy to install and service.
- Heater on indicator light
- 304 stainless steel tank
- 304 stainless steel threaded head, safety sensor electric heating element
- Service-ease design gives simple access to internal controls
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this heater have a built-in pressure switch that prevents operation when there is no water flowing |
| Answer: | Yes, it shuts the unit down when water pressure drops. We used it for a pool and when the filter cartridge plugged up and decreased the water flow it shut down, great reminder to change cartridges... |
| Question: | suitable for salt water |
| Answer: | Of course not |
| Question: | Does this work in europe with 220 vac and 30 amps |
| Answer: | Watts = volts x amperage. 220 x 30 = 6600 Watts, or 6.6 available Kilowatts, a little over half of 11, what is required. |
| Question: | Can I heat up to 50 degree C with this heater |
| Answer: | The max allowed for safety is 40 C or 104 F. Please reference the manual on the Hayward website concerning safe operation and hazards: https://hayward-pool-assets.com/assets/documents/pools/pdf/manuals/Spa-Heaters-ISCSPAXI.pdf?fromCDN=true |
Product features
Hayward CSPAXI11 11 Kilowatt Electric Spa Heater
Hayward electric spa heaters contain all of the sophisticated features and capabilities of heaters twice their size. They fit into compact spaces - even under spa skirts or steps. Like all Hayward heaters, they are easy to install and service.
- 304 stainless steel tank
- 304 stainless steel threaded head, safety sensor electric heating element
- Service-ease design gives simple access to internal controls
- Heater on indicator light
- UPS Shippable
Pentair 77707-0253 Combustion Air Blower Replacement Kit Pool and Spa Natural Gas Heater
Pentair
Product description
This combustion air blower kit is designed to use with Pentair MasterTemp pool and spa natural gas heater model 400NA and also compatible with Pentair Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm pool and spa natural gas heater model 400NA. It includes single volt blower adapter. Measures 12-inch length by 12-inch width by 12-inch height.
- Combustion air blower replacement kit
- Fits Pentair MasterTemp pool and spa natural gas heater model 400NA
- Also fits Pentair Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm pool and spa natural gas heater model 400NA
- Includes single volt blower adapter
- Measures 12-inch length by 12-inch width by 12-inch height
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this blower fan kit work on a model 400lp propane gas heater |
| Answer: | I think it is only for Natural Gas. They should have one for propane. Check your technical manual for the part number and specs. |
| Question: | Should we replace? unit clicks/hums (blower?) when we attempt heating. f1&f2 jumped, same symptoms. afs led on even after replacing afs. thanks |
| Answer: | One thing to look at is on the end of the motor there is a cap has 3 screws with power off remove the cap there is a capacitor inside disconnect the 2 wires and check the capacitor with a meter. If it's bad look on Digikey for replacement. If the cap checks good the blower motor bad. |
| Question: | Has anyone installed it by them self? If so, what are the challenges |
| Answer: | Yes, I installed one by myself. The only real challenge was reaching the nuts that holds the blower to the heater housing. You will need a 10" extension for your ratchet wrench. Also, you will have to re-attach the gas pipe to the new blower. Neither one of these things is difficult and can easily be done by most people. Other than that it fit in the space perfectly and all the electrical connections were identical. |
| Question: | Will this work with Mastertemp 300? It looks exactly the same as Pentair |
| Answer: | No they are not interchangeable. That is for a 400,000 BTU heater which the fan motor is the same, it has a different size air intake and they are not directly interchangeable. |
Raypak 406,000 BTU Digital Natural Gas Pool Heater w/Cupro Nickel | RAY-014941
Product description
The Raypak Swimming Pool/Spa LCD 406,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater with Cupro Nickel has everything a pool owner needs to have reliable and efficient pool heating. Not only does this Raypak heater maintain thermal efficiency above 83 percent and utilize its Unitherm Governor to keep water temperature above 105 F, it consistently exceeds the highest state and federal efficiency standards. In addition, the Raypak includes digital control with LCD display for temperature selection and heater settings, and is diligently designed with high quality materials to stand up to wind and changing climate conditions. For the best in pool heaters, look no further than the Raypak Swimming Pool/Spa LCD 406,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater with Cupro Nickel.
- Constructed with the highest quality integral Cupro nickel fin tube available which helps the unit stand up to the harshest of applications, like low pH, high flow or heavy use
- Digital control with LCD display for temperature selection and heater settings
- Capron resin headers prevent rust stains from harming pool surface
- Plumb directly from provided 2 inch PVC threaded union
- Smart microprocessor controls diagnostic read out and continuously monitors operating status
User questions & answers
| Question: | Has anyone had this model for a while and can lmk if it’s reliable & or problems? raypak 406,000 btu digital gas pool heater w/ cupro nickel |
| Answer: | We have had the heater for about 4 months and it works great. Heats the jacuzzi twice as fast as the old heater which is the same model but much older. Love it. |
| Question: | will this unit replace my m336A hat. gas heater? Saltwater pool |
| Answer: | Chances are you are in luck. I replaced a LAARS Lite 2 335k BTU Natural Gas heater with the 406k BTU Raypak heater. Connections were essentially the same although I took the opportunity to replumb my system and improve the foundation for the heater. I was pleased to learn by a qualified gas plumber that made the final connections that I did not have to increase the size of gas line feed. As I was unhappy with the metal rot in my old heater, I recently completed a simple roof over the unit to reduce precipitation from the unit, and I elevated the unit a few inches on a concrete foundation. I also addressed drainage to ensure no water sat on the unit, internally or otherwise. The Raypak is conditioned for weather, so this my be overkill, but the investment is significant and I felt the unit should receive best care to last over ten years. All that said, the unit works wonderfully, heats my 30,000 gal in-ground pool quickly, and has reduced the cost of maintaining the pool during normal use season. The controls on the unit are such that the unit heats too the desired temperature, then shuts off. A fireman's switch on the pump shuts the heater down 15 minutes before the pump shuts down, so I could improve the programming significantly over the LAARS unit. Best always, Drew |
| Question: | Can this unit be used in a salt pool |
| Answer: | I just converted my pool from chlorine to salt this season. The heater is working fine. |
| Question: | What are the voltage & amps requirements |
| Answer: | From the manufacturer: The Electronic Intermittent Ignition Device automatically lights the pilot and main burners upon a call for heat. The heater is supplied with a dual-voltage transformer for 120 VAC or 240 VAC input power hookup. When operating on 120VAC power, the 206A-406A units draw 4 amps. When operating on 240VAC power, the 206A-406A units draw 2 amps. WARNING: Heaters are factory-wired for 240 VAC power supply. DO NOT attempt to operate at 208 VAC. |
Raypak 013464F PC Board Control Replacement for Digital Gas Heater
Raypak
Product description
This PC board control kit is designed for use with Digital Gas Heater. Features a 2-line 16 character LCD display with plain text diagnostics. It has improved flame sensing capabilities, an internal fuse and a service menu to aid in troubleshooting and maintenance. It is the first ever flame signal strength indicator that is graphical and It is easy to use. This new sensing and diagnostic capability will help reduce unnecessary parts change outs. It has the ability to monitor the 24-Volt power supply and provide useful diagnostic feedback. Packaged with an extensive list of parts, the kit includes a PC control board and a remote wire harness, designed as a seven pin plug. It also includes an LCD gasket for added protection against water damage and five #6 by 3/8-inch screws for installation.
- PC board control replacement kit
- For use with Digital Gas Heater
- Features a 2-line 16 character LCD display with plain text diagnostics
- Improved flame sensing capabilities, an internal fuse and a service menu to aid in troubleshooting and maintenance
- Ability to monitor the 24V power supply and provide useful diagnostic feedback
User questions & answers
| Question: | I have a model p-r335a-en serial 030500. original control unit p/n 601588. is this compatible |
| Answer: | I am not sure. When I purchased by board and it gave me this model board, which is completely different than original. I put it in and it worked perfectly. Very easy to replace. Don't break the piece on the board as instructing say. That is for commercial unit according to tech support. Good Luck |
| Question: | Does this work as a replacement for the 601553 board |
| Answer: | Working Great! |
| Question: | will this replace the control board (part #010253F) for Model D406A |
| Answer: | The proper replacement board for a Raypak model 406A is the 013464F. |
| Question: | Does this board work for lp gas as well |
| Answer: | It does and I saved the one I have because it wasn’t the panel. I found bad wires with insulation missing causing me to think it was the panel |
Pentair 073998 IID Natural Gas Valve Replacement MiniMax and PowerMax Pool/Spa Heater
Pentair
Product description
Pentair 073998 IID Natural Gas Valve Replacement MiniMax and PowerMax Pool/Spa Heater
- Iid Natural Gas Valve Replacement
- Fits Pentair Minimax Ch And Plus Pool And Spa Heater Models 150 Iid, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400
- Also Fits Pentair Powermax Pool And Spa Heater Models 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400
- Country Of Origin: United States
User questions & answers
| Question: | How do you know if this part has failed |
| Answer: | I have been working on these for 20+ yrs. Gas valve rarely goes out. I would have heater checked by pro before spending $$$. |
| Question: | is the valve the same for natural gas and propane |
| Answer: | No the valve is completely different. |
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