10 best heating swimming pools

Heating swimming pools is a common practice to extend the swimming season, maintain comfortable water temperatures, and enhance the overall enjoyment of the pool. Several methods and types of pool heaters are available for this purpose:

  1. Gas Pool Heaters:

    • Propane or Natural Gas: Gas pool heaters are popular due to their efficiency and quick heating capabilities. They use propane or natural gas as fuel to heat the pool water as it circulates through the unit. These heaters are suitable for all pool sizes and can maintain desired temperatures even in colder climates.
  2. Electric Resistance Heaters:

    • Electric Resistance Heaters: These heaters work by passing water through electric heating elements. They are suitable for smaller pools or spas but may be less energy-efficient than other options, resulting in higher operating costs.
  3. Heat Pumps:

    • Pool Heat Pumps: Heat pumps use electricity to extract heat from the surrounding air and transfer it to the pool water. They are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly but may have a slower heating rate than gas heaters. Heat pumps are ideal for maintaining consistent temperatures and are a cost-effective long-term heating solution.
  4. Solar Pool Heaters:

    • Solar Pool Heaters: Solar heaters harness energy from the sun to warm pool water. They consist of solar panels or collectors installed on the roof or near the pool. Solar heaters are eco-friendly and cost-effective over the long term, as they rely on free solar energy once installed.
  5. Wood-Burning or Pellet Heaters:

    • Wood-Burning or Pellet Heaters: These heaters burn wood or pellets to heat a water chamber, which is then used to warm the pool water. They are an option for those looking for an alternative and potentially more rustic heating method.
  6. Hybrid Pool Heaters:

    • Hybrid Pool Heaters: Some pool heaters combine two or more heating methods, such as a heat pump and a gas heater, to provide efficient and versatile heating solutions.

Key considerations when choosing a pool heater include:

  • Pool Size: Ensure the heater's capacity matches the size of your pool.
  • Climate: Consider your local climate, as it can affect the heater's efficiency and performance.
  • Operating Costs: Assess the long-term operational costs, including energy consumption and fuel expenses.
  • Installation and Maintenance: Factor in the installation complexity and ongoing maintenance requirements.
  • Environmental Impact: Consider eco-friendly options like solar heaters or heat pumps to minimize environmental impact.

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the heater operates efficiently and lasts for years. This includes cleaning, inspecting, and servicing the heater according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Proper pool covers can also help retain heat and reduce heating costs by preventing heat loss when the pool is not in use.

Ultimately, the choice of a pool heater depends on your specific needs, budget, and environmental considerations.Consulting with a professional pool heater installer can provide valuable guidance in selecting the right heating solution for your swimming pool.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best heating swimming pools on the market
  

SunQuest 6-2X10 Solar Swimming Pool Heater Complete System with Roof Kits

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

SunQuest captures the free energy from the sun to heat your swimming pool thus eliminating your swimming pool heating costs. The system circulates pool water through solar panels and uses solar energy to warm the water as it returns to the pool. SunQuest solar pool heaters feature premium quality, superior technology, highest rated performance and second-to-none reliability. It simply works - and keeps on working so you can enjoy swimming in your pool from early spring through late fall in luxurious warm water. These panels are Professional Grade quality, equal or better to other systems costing thousands of dollars. The Sunquest Solar Panels are simply unsurpassed in value! This kit comes complete and is good for both above ground and inground pools. It includes everything needed to properly install your panel system so the only extra you will need to buy is the piping that goes from the heating panels to your pool. With its easy to follow instruction manual, installation of the SunQuest Solar Panel system is a simple do-it-yourself project. The panels come standard with connectors to attach to 1-1/2" & 1-1/4" flexible hose. These Systems additionally have connectors for 1-1/2" rigid pipe. For 2" rigid PVC pipe, an optional connector kit is available (SQ-PIPE2K)

  • SunQuest Solar panels are designed for both In-ground and Above-ground swimming pools
  • MAX-FLOW design with 2" OD headers - better water circulation - less back pressure on your pump.
  • Compatible with your existing pool pump.
  • Increases pool water temperature up to 10 degrees.
  • SunQuest is an easy do-it-yourself installation.

User questions & answers

Question: Can the panels be mounted on my roof horizontal
Answer: We had our cabinets installed then the fan itself and liner. There usually is access through the cabinet to do the duct work. If not put cabinets in then the duct work, fan and then liner.
Question: This product come with their own pump or we have to used the pump we have in the pool?for the pool
Answer: The box liner is only sold as shown. We do not customize orders. Our apology.
Question: Any idea how you stop the panel connectors leaking? I put the rubber hoses on as described and they all leak like a sieve
Answer: We are sorry to hear of this issue. Please contact our Technical Support / Warranty Department at 800-637-1453. They can do some troubleshooting for you.
Question: My pool size is 30’L x 15’W x 5’ D will 4 - 2’ x10’ panels work
Answer: The BCSEK130SS uses the HPF30 charcoal filters. You can also order part number S97020466. These numbers are the for the same filter.
Question: What kind of filter would you buy for this
Answer: Filters are specific to a model or line of range hoods. The filter dimensions for the 30" range hood are 12-7/8" x 14-5/8" x 1/2" Thank you.
Question: is it BPA free
Answer: Yes. This is a convertible range hood. You have the option to duct this through the back side. Your duct will have to be 3-1/4" x 10". If you go to our web site, www.broan.com, type in the model number (BCSEL130SS), you can review the specification sheet. You might also call us at 800-558-1711 and speak with our Customer Service Department. Thank you
Question: Whats the filters cost
Answer: It is large enough for a 17 inch diagonal laptop but not an 11 by 17 in document
Question: Do we order replacements for this when it has been used up after 6 months of usage or just order another new one
Answer: I would consider the material (like ballistic webbing) water resistant. Zippers are very large and robust making an excellent seal.

Beluga Pool Solutions 1652 Solar Heating Device for Swimming Pool

Beluga Pool Solutions

Based on 404 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The beluga solar pool heating device is a revolutionary way to heat your swimming pool using a garden hose. The beluga device attaches to a standard 1 1/2" return fitting on above ground or in ground swimming pools and allows you to divert a small stream of water into a garden hose. If you have ever picked up a garden hose that has been lying in the sun you know how hot the water can get. The beluga allows you to slow the water down going through the hose capturing all of the heat that the garden hose can produce. The beluga solar heating device is the least expensive heating option on the market today. Now you can get your pool up to temperature sooner, extend your pool season, recover from a cold rain or a cool evening without any additional costs; no expensive heater unit, no service bills, and no expensive energy bills.

  • Heat your pool with a garden hose
  • Save hundreds on your energy bill
  • Easily connects to a standard 1 1/2" return fitting on above ground or in ground pools
  • Increase the comfort and extend the swimming season of your pool
  • Economical alternative to gas or electric heating

User questions & answers

Question: I have a hayward male eyeball return is there anything I can use to adapt so it will work
Answer: Yes, the ten-pack combination allows you to install it in every room. The price is very affordable.
Question: How much does it raise temp
Answer: Hello, these repellers do not effect dogs or cats. they are completely safe for your dog.
Question: Are there any adapters to make this work with a 1 1/4" inlet opening for an Intex above ground pool
Answer: Unsure what a BR500 is, but if you meant PM500SS, yes, it will work with the PM500SS also.
Question: This device is attached to only a hose, right? I don't want something that attaches to my pool or the pool equipment
Answer: We do not have a liner that meets the dimensions you require. You might have to have one custom made.

Solar Sun Rings Solar Pool Heater (6)

Solar Sun Rings

Based on 192 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Solar Sun Rings are passive solar swimming pool heating devices, constructed from two layers of U.V. resistant vinyl. The upper clear layer directs the suns rays onto the bottom blue layer which absorbs about 50% of the sunlight, converting it to heat. The remaining sunlight filters through the ring into your pool water. The majority of heat loss from a pool comes from the water surface at night. Solar Sun Rings do not cover the entire surface of your pool; therefore it allows heat to escape. To help keep the warm water in your pool at night we recommend you use additional insulation such as solar fish or a solar blanket. Do not over inflate. Do not use as a flotation device. Note: Solar Sun Rings may vary in color and design from one manufacturing lot to the next. If you are purchasing additional rings to add to your existing rings they will be functionally the same, but may appear visually different. Coverage: Solar Sun Rings are warranted to be free of manufacturing defects for two years. Warranty is limited to materials and workmanship.

  • HEAT YOUR POOL - Solar Sun Rings are passive solar swimming pool heating devices, constructed from two layers of U.V. resistant vinyl. The upper clear layer directs the suns rays onto the bottom blue layer which absorbs about 50% of the sunlight, converting it to heat. The remaining sunlight filters through the ring into your pool water.
  • WARMING DISCS - The majority of heat loss from a pool comes from the water surface at night. Solar Sun Rings do not cover the entire surface of your pool; therefore it allows heat to escape. To help keep the warm water in your pool at night we recommend you use additional insulation such as solar fish or a solar blanket.
  • WHAT'S INCLUDED - Each unit contains 6 magnets that are used to attach the rings together. Do not over inflate. Do not use as a flotation device.
  • SOLAR ACTIVATED - Use the Solar Sun Rings to provide heat to your swimming pool from the sun. Swim comfortably without wasting energy
  • PLEASE NOTE - These Solar Sun Rings are NOT a solar cover or a replacement for a solar cover. These are floating disc heating devices.

User questions & answers

Question: how big are these?? are they 60 inches diameter
Answer: It has been a while since I put them on and our swim season has not quite started but I do believe that they are the 60" you suggest. I think the product description should have that information. I might add though, they really work well if inflated correctly-just FYI. I needed 20 rings to cover our pool and it wasn't because they are small, our pool is just large.
Question: Is there a satisfaction guarentee? We are not happy with the purchase as they did not work all
Answer: This did not work.
Question: How effective are they about making the warm
Answer: I teach swimming lessons in my backyard pool. One end of my pool is 10 to 12 feet deep so it takes a while for my pool to warm up in time for Swimming Lessons. I’ll put the solar rings on in April and start my Swimming Lessons June 1. The water is still chilly but not as bad as it would be If I did not do this. There is no way I would be able to teach beginner students beginning June 1 Without the solar rays. I live in North Texas and I continue to use the solar rings until the middle of June.
Question: does this product have anchors
Answer: No, They attach to each other with magnets that are space about 2 feet apart around the circumference. I anchor mine with a nylon rope to a chair near the edge of one end of my pool to keep them from the skimmer. They are very effective keeping my pool near 80 during the summer, I did not have to use any heat all season last year. Downside is they do collect dirt falling from the sky which may not be a problem depending. I live in the San Joaquin Valley and since it is farming territory the air is always filled with dirt.

Solar Sun Rings SSR1 Swimming Pool Spa Heater 21K BTU Cover Heating SSR-1

Solar Sun Rings

Based on 162 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Solar Sun Ring is a passive solar swimming pool heating device made from two sheets of heavyweight U.V. resistant vinyl. The upper clear layer holds insulating air and focuses sunlight on the blue colored lower layer. The blue layer absorbs about 50% of the sunlight and converts it to heat. The balance of the sunlight is allowed to pass through for deep water heating.Common Questions:How Do Solar Sun Rings Work? At night the contained air acts as an insulating blanket to retain heat gained

  • Can be easily placed and removed by one person within a few minutes
  • Can be flipped over to decrease water temperature if desired
  • Center section is now welded to the bottom of the outer ring, increasing the heat output
  • Magnets on the corners attract and keep other rings together
  • Grommets on the inner grid allow for easy drainage of excess water

User questions & answers

Question: Do the rings need to be deflated for Winter storage
Answer: Not quite sure why I received this question for a Mopar paint on a Jeep. This Paint was an exact match for my Dodge Journey.
Question: SSR1 solar sun ring. My question is what is the diameter of the ring
Answer: No it will peel off after 1 season unless u add a sealer
Question: How many5 foot solar rings would i need for above ground pool 18x
Answer: This stuff is good for any clean surface
Question: Lol I have a 14ft around pool, was I suppose to get more than one
Answer: If the tub is first etched and primed with paint for metal, I believe it may. This paint is designed to be used over rubber based paints.

Aquapill AP72 30,000 Gallon Solar Pill for Swimming Pool Heating, 2-Pack

Aquapill

Based on 77 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Solar Pill features a time release dispensing system that reduces heat and chemical loss thru pool water evaporation. Solar Pill 73 helps extend your swimming season and is know as the "Pool Blanket in a Pill" Treats up to 30,000 gallons Lasts one month.

  • Pool Blanket for Up to 30,000 Gallons
  • Lasts up to one month
  • Easy to use; simply place in skimmer; automatically dispenses
  • Reduces heat and chemical loss by preventing water evaporation
  • Helps extend your swimming season

User questions & answers

Question: Odd question I know, is it gluten free? I have a grandson who is terribly sensitive, even on his skin
Answer: Don’t know for sure. UT I would think so

Fafco Solar Bear Economy Heating System for Above-Ground Pools

Fafco

Based on 172 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Manufactured by the premier company in the solar business (they have installed over 125000 solar systems), these panels have been efficiently heating swimming pools since 1972. Solar Bear's surface is fully whetted by pool water insuring the most efficient panel available. Extra large 2-inch headers do not slow down your pool's circulation and ensure excellent solar heat transfer to your pool's water. Smaller 1-1/2-inch headers can reduce your pool's circulation and cause solar heating to be compromised. Solar Bear systems are comprised of a single extra-large 4-feet by 20-feet collector with no couplings or connectors. The system is made of U.V. stabilized polyethylene that is very tough and will last many seasons under direct sunlight. The systems come complete with an integral bypass valve, so you can turn them on and off as needed. Solar Bear panels can be mounted on the ground, on a rack, or a nearby roof. Complete installation and user's manuals are included. 10-Year Warranty. Put solar to work in your pool and swim in a warmer pool without the huge expense of heating it. Note: For panels to heat optimally, they must receive unobstructed sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

  • Package includes 4' x 20' Wide Solar Collector with 1-1/2" barb connections, 12 mounting caps, 12 mounting bases, 6 mounting straps, 1 valve handle and 20 rubber tube plugs
  • Pool pump circulates pool water through the heated solar collector
  • Optimal heating with unobstructed sunlight between 10am and 4pm. Performs most effectively when tilted 10 to 30 degrees to the South
  • Mount on the ground, on a rack, or nearby roof
  • Additional materials required: 1-1/2" I.D. flexible hose and ground spikes (ground installation)

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work on 17000 gallon pool
Answer: I believe so- we have a 15 foot by 30 foot oval pool and I think that is 15,000 or 17,000 gallons of water. We have had our solar cover since last summer and we are very happy with it. It is a good quality cover.
Question: Is this kit for above-ground or in-ground pools? Ours is in-ground
Answer: It works for both in-ground and above-ground pools. You connect it to the pool pump so you will need a diversion valve.
Question: Has anybody use this for an inground pool? And how did it work
Answer: I have not used this for an inground pool, but the pool type should not matter. As water is moves through the panel, it picks up a little heat on each pass. The amount of heat is determined by the number of panels. The only difference between inground and above ground pools that would be an issue is heat loss, which would depend on your environment and pool materials.
Question: How many gallons of water does the 4 ft x 20 ft panel itself hold
Answer: Don't know but it isn't much as heating tubes so small. Never seems to be too much water that drains out when I put away for winter

Solar Sun Rings UV Resistant Above Ground Inground Swimming Pool Hot Tub Spa Heating Accessory Circular Heater Solar Cover, Blue (6 Pack)

Product description

Keep your pool warm and your wallet unscathed by lowering your electricity bills this season with the Solar Sun Rings Swimming Pool Spa Heater Circular Solar Cover. Solar sun rings are much easier to set up and take down than regular pool covers and save you money in the process. The solar cover works by using sunlight to heat the pool throughout the day while the thermal blanket effect helps the water retain heat during the night. The cover also reduces the evaporation of water and chemicals, so your pool chemistry stays intact longer. The redesigned inner grid contains added drainage grommets, which allow water to seep through the Solar Sun Rings without sinking. Dirty pool? Simply move the rings around while cleaning your pool instead of going through the hassle of removing them all. For the best performance, clean the rings monthly with a simple solution of water, pine cleaner, and vinegar. One ring per 50 square feet of water is recommended to fully heat your pool. Enjoy your pool without worry with the Solar Sun Rings Swimming Pool Spa Heater Circular Solar Cover.

User questions & answers

Question: what mill is this blanket
Answer: I have not seen a brown recluse where I live but it basically has killed everything I have applied it to. It is nasty stuff for bugs. I like it better then anything else I have ever used that was not applied by a professional.
Question: What is the thickness
Answer: Yes, the ten-pack combination allows you to install it in every room. The price is very affordable.
Question: How many mil thickness
Answer: The ultrasonic frequency of the product is 22-65 kHz, which can't be heard by people. Please feel free to use it.

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

XtremepowerUS

Based on 223 reviews Check latest price

Product description

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

  • XtremepowerUS Panels are built from extremely high-grade materials that are proven to last in all types of weather
  • Pools pump and filter system circulates pool water through the SOLAR PANELS when it is heated & then returned to your pool. Once installed, these panels are cost effective, produce no greenhouse gases, and need low to no maintenance. Extend your swimming this year at a low cost with the help from the sun!
  • System is designed to be used on above-ground or in-ground pools. Each kit is made of - 2' x 20'ft panels. Each panel is made of lightweight, flexible, durable black polypropylene. The panel tube construction creates a larger surface area which optimizes heat transfer from the sun to your pool
  • 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. Sold separately under item number B01FNE41HA

User questions & answers

Question: Are these panels expandable
Answer: yes of course, everything you need there at Home Depotbest gds hans
Question: I am using a low flow solar pump. I think I should remove the baffle and block the flow between sections so water flows up onside and down the other
Answer: That is exactly what I did. I plugged the hole in the baffle disc and diverted the water into two sections at a time. So I have a total of ten sections and the water travels up two, then back two, then backup two, until it exits. My pump is a 6 gpm solar pump and it works fine.
Question: How many panels do you receive? Picture shows
Answer: You receive 2 panels, each with 2 sections, so 4 ribbons. I say this because if this is at an angle it will sag. I squeeze it between 2 boards at various points because I have it at an angle on a rig above the ground.
Question: How many HP does your pump have to be for this solar heater
Answer: I used two of these on my 10,000 gallon pool. I did not use my 1hp pool pump ( I did not want to run it for 8 hours a day). I set up a small 250 GPH utility pump to circulate water. I run it for 8 hours a day at a cost of about 15 cents a day. The incoming temp was about 75- outgoing about 100. It resulted in a raise of total pool temp of about 8 degrees. The HP of the circulating pump does not make a difference. Only a set amount of Sun energy can be transferred to the water based on the sq. footage of the panels, amount of sun and hours per day of circulation. The HP or GPH will not make a difference as long as you are circulating water through the panel.

Kokido Keops Solar Dome Above Ground Swimming Pool Water Heater | K835CBX/RV

Kokido

Based on 85 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Extend your swimming season with the Kokido Keops Solar Dome Above Ground Pool Water Heater. Swimming doesn't have to end because summer is over, this cost effective, environmentally friendly pool heater works by connecting between your filter pump and pool return. It is compatible with most above ground pools and includes 4 foot hoses, fittings, and stainless steel clamps. This heater dramatically reduces pool heating costs and has an integrated rack that helps set up an optimal angle for the heater to receive maximum sun exposure. You can attach additional heaters for larger swimming pools. With this Kokido Keops Solar Dome Above Ground Pool Water Heater, you can just keep swimming, just keep swimming, just keep swimming.

  • Don't let summer's end keep you from swimming, this Kokido Keops Solar Dome Above Ground Pool Water Heater lets you swim on into the cooler months of the year
  • Extend your swimming season with warm water and heat your pool to a warm, comfortable temperature
  • Environmentally friendly heating energy
  • Dramatically reduces or eliminates pool heating costs compared with gas or electrical heater
  • Includes a protective cover for storage purpose when not in use

User questions & answers

Question: What is the diameter of the solar heater hose? I need to connect it directly to a garden hose, using adaptors
Answer: 11/2
Question: Could I use this to heat a small greenhouse
Answer: Yes you could. You'd have to devise the system to suit your needs though. Pump water from ten 55 gallon drums of water, though the solar collector and back, would heat up those drums all day. At night, the heat would radiate out and that bank of energy you store in the day might be what you require at night. But nobody knows your needs like you do, so you would decide. I just threw out one idea...
Question: Dumb question but I guess you have to run your filter a lot for this to work? Intex doesn't recommend running the filter while you are in the pool
Answer: I live in Connecticut. At the beginning of the season I ran it all day. You are probably right the more you run it in daylight the more heat it generates. I did not need it mid or late summer. I was happy with it, a few more degrees warmer in the pool is a lot more comfortable.
Question: Does it come with a pump? If not, what kind of pump is recomendd
Answer: This does not come with a pump. It is a passive solar collector and needs to be set up in conjunction with your existing pool pump or a dedicated circulator pump.

XtremepowerUS 24" x 10' ft Inground/Above Ground Swimming Pool Solar Panel Heating System Spa Heater

Product description

Quantity of these solar panels needed is dependent on the pool size and the location, which may estimate by some websites. XtremepowerUS Panels are built from extremely high-grade materials that are proven to last in all types of weather Each Roll 24" x 10 foot Long; 24" x 10' Solar Collector; Quick connect design for easy assembly Quantity of these solar panels needed is dependent on the pool size and the location The system can be installed on the roof of your house, shed or cabana, mounted to a rack or simply placed on the ground.

  • Quantity of these solar panels needed is dependent on the pool size and the location, which may estimate by some websites.
  • XtremepowerUS Panels are built from extremely high-grade materials that are proven to last in all types of weather
  • Each Roll 24" x 10 foot Long; 24" x 10' Solar Collector; Quick connect design for easy assembly
  • Quantity of these solar panels needed is dependent on the pool size and the location
  • The system can be installed on the roof of your house, shed or cabana, mounted to a rack or simply placed on the ground.

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