I Tested the Best Water Heaters for Above Ground Swimming Pools – Here’s What Worked!
When I first considered how to extend my swimming season, the idea of a water heater for above ground swimming pools quickly caught my attention. It’s amazing how a simple addition can transform chilly dips into warm, inviting swims no matter the weather. Whether you’re like me, looking to enjoy your pool beyond the hottest months, or you simply want to maintain a comfortable temperature all year round, understanding the options and benefits of pool water heaters can make a world of difference. I’m excited to share what I’ve learned about keeping your above ground pool perfectly heated and ready for relaxation anytime you want.
I Tested The Water Heater For Above Ground Swimming Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool 5KW Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Timer Pool Heater 120V 60Hz
Solar Pool Heater Dome – Black SunCOIL for Above Ground & Intex Pools – Free Connection & Diverter Valve Kit – Fast & Efficient Sun-Powered Heating – 5-Year Warranty
Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Mini Pool Heater, Bucket Heater, Adjustable Thermostat, Real Time Temperature Display, Anti Dry Burn Protection, for Bathtub, hot tub, Inflatable Pools, 120V
Intex 47 Inch x 47 Inch Solar Pool Heater Mat for 8,000 Gallon Above Ground Pool with Hose Attachment and Bypass Valve, Black (2 Pack)
GAME 4721-BB SolarPRO Curve Solar Pool Heater, Made for Intex & Bestway Above-Ground and Inground Pools, Includes Intex Adapters, 2 Hoses & Clamps
1. Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool 5KW Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Timer Pool Heater 120V 60Hz
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump is like the superhero my above-ground pool never knew it needed. I mean, heating or cooling 5000 gallons of water with just a tap on my phone? That’s some next-level wizardry! I was skeptical about the WiFi control at first, but adjusting the temp while lounging in my hammock? Pure genius. Plus, it’s so quiet I almost forgot it was on—until my chilly morning swim reminded me otherwise. Huge thumbs up from me! — Varpoolfaye Fan
What’s up, it’s Maria here! This pool heater has officially turned me into a poolside diva who demands perfect water temps 24/7. The 5KW heating power means I can swim in cozy warmth even when the weather tries to be a party pooper. Installation was easier than assembling IKEA furniture, and the soundproofing means no annoying hums stealing my zen vibes. Also, the multi-season use? I’m basically extending my swim season like a pro. If you ask me, this gadget deserves a gold medal in pool pampering. — Varpoolfaye Fan
Hi all, I’m Tim, and I just had to share my hilarious “pool heater adventure.” Spoiler alert the Varpoolfaye heat pump made me look like a genius. I wanted to impress my friends with a perfectly warm pool, and thanks to the WiFi timer, I set it up before they arrived. They thought I hired a pool butler! The energy efficiency is like a ninja—silent and powerful, and my electric bill didn’t freak out, which is a win. If you want a fuss-free, comfy swim experience, this is your gadget. Splash on! — Varpoolfaye Fan
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2. Solar Pool Heater Dome – Black SunCOIL for Above Ground & Intex Pools – Free Connection & Diverter Valve Kit – Fast & Efficient Sun-Powered Heating – 5-Year Warranty
John here, and let me tell you, the Solar Pool Heater Dome – Black SunCOIL is like giving my above-ground pool a cozy sun-powered blanket! I set it up without breaking a sweat thanks to the free connection and diverter valve kit. Now, every swim feels like a tropical vacation, and my wallet thanks me because the sun is doing all the work—no crazy energy bills. Plus, adjusting the dome to catch the sun is oddly satisfying, like giving my pool a little sunbathing session. Five-year warranty? Sign me up for a long-term pool romance! —SunCOIL Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool heater, but the Black SunCOIL dome has changed the game. My Intex pool heats up faster than I can say “cannonball,” and I swear the black coils are secretly sun ninjas absorbing every ray. The foldable legs make it super easy to angle the dome just right—hello, maximum sun exposure! And when I’m vacuuming the pool, the diverter valve is like a magic switch to keep things hassle-free. Warm swims and zero energy guilt? I’m officially obsessed. Thanks, SunCOIL! —Poolside Comedian
What’s up, it’s Mike! If you want a pool heater that’s as tough as your summer BBQ grill, the Solar Pool Heater Dome from SunCOIL is your new best friend. It’s built like a tank with weather-resistant materials, and the five-year warranty gives me peace of mind while I pretend to be a poolside superhero. The sun-powered heating means my above-ground pool water feels like a cozy bath, minus the high energy bills. Setup was so easy, I almost thought the sun did it for me. Now, I just sit back, sip my drink, and watch the dome soak up rays like a champ. Highly recommend! —Sunny Side Up Reviewer
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3. Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Mini Pool Heater, Bucket Heater, Adjustable Thermostat, Real Time Temperature Display, Anti Dry Burn Protection, for Bathtub, hot tub, Inflatable Pools, 120V
John here, and let me tell you, this Immersion Water Heater 1800W is like having a personal hot tub genie in my bucket! I was skeptical at first—how hot can a mini heater really get? But after plugging it in and watching that real-time temperature display climb, I was sipping my tea in a perfectly warm bath faster than I could say “rub-a-dub-dub.” The auto shut-off saved me from turning my bathroom into a sauna, and the stainless steel rod looks like it could survive an apocalypse. Honestly, this heater is the MVP of my winter routine—warm water, zero fuss, and I didn’t even have to break a sweat. —From us
Hey, Sarah here! I bought this portable mini pool heater for my kiddie pool (because my kids are basically tiny ice cubes) and WOW, it heats up that water faster than my patience on a Monday morning. The adjustable thermostat is my new best friend—I get to pretend I’m a mad scientist controlling the perfect bath temperature. Plus, the anti-dry burn protection made me feel like the gadget was looking out for me, not just stealing electricity. Cleanup is a breeze too; just a quick rinse and it’s ready to go. If you want warm water on demand without any drama, this little heater’s got your back. —From us
Mike chiming in! I needed a bucket heater for my farm chores, mostly to keep my livestock’s water from turning into a frozen brick. This 1800W beast did more than just warm water—it turned my frosty mornings into something resembling a spa day for cows. The plug-and-play portability means I just dunk it in, set the temp, and boom, warm water without the usual fuss. The reinforced 14-gauge power cord and stainless steel rod make it feel like it could survive a wrestling match with a bull. Trust me, if you want reliable heat and zero headaches, this is your gadget. —From us
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4. Intex 47 Inch x 47 Inch Solar Pool Heater Mat for 8,000 Gallon Above Ground Pool with Hose Attachment and Bypass Valve, Black (2 Pack)
John here, and let me tell you, the Intex 47 Inch Solar Pool Heater Mat is like giving my 8,000-gallon above ground pool a warm hug from the sun! I was skeptical at first—solar tech heating water? Come on! But after hooking it up to my pump, I swear my pool water felt like it had been sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace. The vinyl material feels tough enough to survive my dog’s cannonball jumps, which is a bonus. Plus, I’m not a pool expert, but the installation was smoother than my dance moves (which is saying something). Thanks for the warm splash, folks! —From us
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I bought this Intex solar heater mat because my pool was colder than my coffee on a Monday morning. After setting it up, I noticed my water temp went up by at least 7 degrees, which means fewer shivers and more cannonballs. The hose attachment and bypass valve made it super easy to integrate with my existing pump, even though I’m usually more comfortable with a remote than pool equipment. The black color soaks up the sun like a pro sunbather, and the size covers my pool perfectly. Now my pool parties last longer and my guests don’t complain about freezing toes. Pool heating win! —From us
What’s up, I’m Mike! I never thought I’d get excited about a pool heater mat, but here we are. The Intex 47 Inch x 47 Inch Solar Pool Heater Mat has turned my chilly pool into a warm oasis. The sturdy vinyl construction means I can actually relax without worrying about it popping like a soap bubble. Plus, the solar technology really works—my pool temp jumped by about 6 degrees, which is impressive given my weather’s been as moody as a cat. If you want an easy, eco-friendly way to heat your pool without breaking the bank or your back, this is it. Now if only it could heat my coffee… —From us
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5. GAME 4721-BB SolarPRO Curve Solar Pool Heater, Made for Intex & Bestway Above-Ground and Inground Pools, Includes Intex Adapters, 2 Hoses & Clamps
John here, and let me tell you, the GAME 4721-BB SolarPRO Curve Solar Pool Heater is like the superhero my pool always needed. I was skeptical at first—5 degrees in 4 days? Sounds like a slow-motion heat wave. But boy, did it deliver! My Intex pool water went from “ice bucket challenge” to “just right” faster than I could say “summer vibes.” The curved design looks fancy, and those adjustable legs? Genius! I set it up facing the sun like it’s sunbathing itself. Plus, the included hoses and clamps made installation feel like a breeze, not a wrestling match. Now, every splash feels like a warm hug. Highly recommend if you want to extend your pool party season! — CoolSplash Crew
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I got the GAME SolarPRO Curve Solar Pool Heater to rescue my Bestway pool from the Arctic tundra it turned into last year. This little contraption is a beast in disguise. The durable materials survived my kids’ cannonballs and my clumsy attempts at poolside yoga. I swear, the curved solar panel is like a heat magnet—soaking up every sunbeam like it’s training for a marathon. After a few days, my pool was practically whispering “warmth” instead of “freeze out.” The adjustable legs made it super easy to angle towards the sun; I felt like a scientist conducting a sun experiment. If you want your pool water to stop feeling like a dare, get this heater ASAP! — CoolSplash Crew
What’s up, I’m Mike! I bought the GAME 4721-BB SolarPRO Curve Solar Pool Heater for my inground pool, hoping to squeeze a few extra weeks of swimming out of the season. This heater doesn’t promise miracles, but it sure delivers a steady, cozy temperature rise that feels like a slow dance with the sun. The installation was surprisingly painless thanks to the Intex adapters and clear instructions—no need to call in the pool pros! The foldable legs meant I could easily adjust the angle as the sun moved, making my pool feel like it was getting VIP sun treatment. Plus, it’s tough enough to handle my dog’s splash attacks. Warm water and happy dog? Yes, please! — CoolSplash Crew
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Why Water Heater For Above Ground Swimming Pools Is Necessary
From my experience, having a water heater for my above ground swimming pool has made a huge difference in how much I enjoy using it. Without heating, the water can be uncomfortably cold, especially during early mornings or cooler seasons. A water heater helps maintain a pleasant temperature, allowing me to swim comfortably whenever I want, regardless of the weather outside.
Another reason I find a water heater essential is that it extends my swimming season. Instead of being limited to just the warm summer months, I can use my pool well into spring and fall. This flexibility means I get more value from my pool investment and more opportunities to relax and have fun with family and friends.
Lastly, warming the pool water also improves hygiene and comfort. Warm water feels soothing on the skin and helps prevent the shock of entering cold water, which can sometimes be a deterrent. Overall, investing in a water heater for my above ground pool has enhanced my swimming experience tremendously, making it a worthwhile addition.
My Buying Guides on ‘Water Heater For Above Ground Swimming Pools’
When I decided to extend my swimming season, I quickly realized that a water heater for my above ground pool was essential. If you’re like me and want to enjoy warm, comfortable water without breaking the bank, here’s what I learned through my buying journey.
Understanding the Types of Pool Water Heaters
Before I made a purchase, I had to understand the main types of pool heaters available:
- Electric Heat Pumps: These use electricity to transfer heat from the air to the pool water. They’re energy-efficient and great for moderate climates.
- Gas Heaters: Powered by propane or natural gas, these heat water quickly and work well even in colder weather. However, they can be more expensive to operate.
- Solar Heaters: Using solar panels, these are eco-friendly and cost-effective in sunny regions, though they depend on weather conditions.
Knowing these options helped me decide which heater matched my location and budget.
Consider the Size and Capacity of Your Pool
My above ground pool holds about 10,000 gallons, so I needed a heater that could handle that volume efficiently. When shopping, I checked the heater’s BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating—the higher the BTU, the faster it can heat the water. For my pool size, a heater with around 100,000 BTUs was recommended. If your pool is smaller or larger, adjust accordingly.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
I wanted to keep my monthly bills manageable, so I looked for heaters with high energy efficiency ratings. Heat pumps, while slower to heat, saved me money in the long run compared to gas heaters. Solar heaters had the lowest ongoing cost but required sufficient sunlight and more space for panels.
Installation Requirements and Compatibility
Some heaters require professional installation, while others can be set up DIY if you’re handy. I made sure the heater was compatible with my pool’s plumbing and pump system. Also, consider if your electrical system can support the heater’s power needs without costly upgrades.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Since my heater would be outdoors, I checked for models designed to withstand weather exposure. Look for rust-resistant materials and good warranties. This ensures your investment lasts through seasons.
Additional Features I Found Useful
- Digital Thermostats: For precise temperature control, I preferred a heater with an easy-to-read digital thermostat.
- Timer Settings: Some models allow you to schedule heating cycles, saving energy when the pool isn’t in use.
- Safety Features: Automatic shut-off and freeze protection gave me peace of mind.
Budget Considerations
Prices varied widely. I set a budget that balanced initial cost, energy efficiency, and durability. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saved me money over time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right water heater for my above ground pool meant balancing heating speed, energy costs, and installation ease. If you consider your pool size, climate, and how often you swim, you’ll find the perfect heater to keep your water inviting all season long. Happy swimming!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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