Best Swimming Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools of 2025

Bryan Hicks Avatar
Bryan Hicks
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2025

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Swimming pool heaters for above ground pools are essential for those who want to extend their swimming season or enjoy their pool year-round. These heaters come in a variety of types, such as gas, electric, and solar-powered, and can be easily installed and operated. Gas heaters are popular due to their quick heating capabilities, while electric heaters are more energy-efficient. Solar-powered heaters are also an eco-friendly option, using the sun's energy to heat the pool water. Whatever type of heater is chosen, it's important to properly maintain it to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Foinwer 18KW Electric Pool Heater Cover #TOP 1
Foinwer 18KW Electric Pool Heater
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Villastar YC-005 Pool Heater Cover #TOP 2
Villastar YC-005 Pool Heater
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Varpoolfaye Electric Pool Heater 30000 BTU Cover #TOP 3
Varpoolfaye Electric Pool Heater 30000 BTU
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Swimming Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools

Foinwer 18KW Electric Pool Heater

18KW 240V
white
Foinwer 18KW Electric Pool Heater Cover
Foinwer 18KW 240V Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool, Electric Swimming Pool Heater with Touchscreeen, Hot Tub Thermostat for Spa, Bathtub, Above Inground Pool (18KW)

The Foinwer Pool Heater is designed to maintain the perfect water temperature for your above-ground pool. With its automatic temperature cycling system, you won't need to worry about constant adjustments; it heats the water when necessary and stops when the desired temperature is reached. The upgraded touchscreen display makes it easy to monitor and set the temperature, ensuring a comfortable swim. Thanks to its efficient heating tubes, you can enjoy fast heating while saving on energy costs. This versatile heater is perfect for pools, hot tubs, and spas, making it a great addition for any water lover.

What We Like
Automatic temperature control
Easy-to-use touchscreen
Fast heating
Energy efficient
Versatile for multiple uses
#TOP 2

Villastar YC-005 Pool Heater

villastar
YC-005-FNEW
White
Villastar YC-005 Pool Heater Cover
villastar Swim Pool Heater, Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool, Pool Heater, Pool Heat Pump 16000 BTU/hr, Up to 5000 gallons, Fit 15/18/24 Foot Pool, 110V Pool Heater Above Ground YC-005

The Villastar Pool Heater is designed to enhance your swimming experience by keeping your pool warm and enjoyable for family and friends. With its high efficiency, you can save on energy costs while generating more heat than you consume. It’s perfect for small above-ground pools, providing optimal heating even in cooler weather. The heater is easy to install, requiring no professional help, and features a user-friendly LED display for quick temperature adjustments. Built to last, its rugged design ensures durability against the elements, making it a reliable choice for years of enjoyment.

What We Like
Energy-efficient operation
Easy installation
Durable design
Suitable for various pool sizes
#TOP 3

Varpoolfaye Electric Pool Heater 30000 BTU

Varpoolfaye
Varpoolfaye Electric Pool Heater 30000 BTU Cover
Varpoolfaye Electric Pool Heater for Inground Pool 30000 BTU Swimming Pool Heater Pump Above Ground Pool Heater 120V 8000 Gallon Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule

The Varpoolfaye Pool Heater is designed for optimal heating and cooling of your swimming pool. With a powerful 30,000 BTU output, it effectively maintains a comfortable temperature for pools up to 8,000 gallons. You can enjoy all-season swimming, as it offers both heating and cooling modes, ranging from 46°F to 104°F for heating and 46°F to 82°F for cooling. Plus, its WiFi-enabled controls allow you to manage your pool's settings remotely, giving you the convenience to adjust temperatures from anywhere. Additionally, this energy-efficient heater operates quietly, ensuring a peaceful environment while you swim.

What We Like
High-performance heating
WiFi-enabled control
Energy-efficient operation
Quiet operation
#TOP 4

Villastar YC-005-N12024 Pool Heater

villastar
YC-005-FNEW
White
Villastar YC-005-N12024 Pool Heater Cover
villastar Swimming Pool Heaters, Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool, Inground Pool Heater, Up to 5000 Gallons Fit 15/18/24 Foot Pool,16000 BTU/hr, 110V Pool Heater YC-005-N12024

The Villastar Pool Heater is designed to enhance your swimming experience by extending your pool season. With customizable temperature control, you can easily adjust the water temperature to suit your needs, whether you want to cool down in the summer or heat up in the winter. Its efficient heating technology quickly warms up to 5,000 gallons of water, ensuring a comfortable swimming environment. Plus, the easy and safe installation means you can set it up without the need for special plumbing or electrical work, allowing you to enjoy your pool sooner.

What We Like
Customizable temperature settings
Energy-efficient operation
Quick and easy installation
Safe operation features
#TOP 5

ECOPOOLTECH EU100 Pool Heat Pump

ECOPOOLTECH
EE100
Brown
ECOPOOLTECH EU100 Pool Heat Pump Cover
ECOPOOLTECH Swimming Pool Heat Pumps, Max 38,864BTU Up to 10000gallons Electric Pool Heaters for Inground Pools and Above Ground Pool, 208V~230V/60Hz, Inverter Technology

The ECOPOOLTECH Pool Heat Pump is designed for both above-ground and in-ground pools, making it versatile for various pool types. With its advanced inverter technology, the pump adjusts its compressor speed based on water temperature, ensuring optimal energy efficiency. This means you can enjoy a warm pool without constantly adjusting settings. The intelligent control system maintains your desired temperature automatically, allowing you to relax and enjoy your swim. Additionally, it can extend your swimming season significantly, heating water up to 105°F, so you can make the most of your pool even in cooler weather.

What We Like
Versatile for all pool types
Energy-efficient operation
Automatic temperature control
Extends swimming season

GAME SolarPRO Curve Pool Heater

4721-BB
2 Hoses & Clamps
GAME SolarPRO Curve Pool Heater Cover
GAME 4721-BB SolarPRO Curve Solar Pool Heater, Made for Intex & Bestway Above-Ground and Inground Pools, Includes Intex Adapters, 2 Hoses & Clamps

The GAME SolarPRO Heater is designed to effectively warm your above-ground and most inground pools. It can increase the water temperature by up to 5 degrees within just four days, making your pool more enjoyable. Crafted from durable materials, this heater withstands harsh outdoor conditions, ensuring long-lasting performance. Its unique curved shape enhances heat collection, allowing you to maximize warmth. Plus, the adjustable legs let you position the heater for optimal sun exposure, ensuring you get the most out of your solar heating experience.

What We Like
Effective temperature increase
Durable, weather-resistant materials
Optimized heat collection design
Adjustable for maximum sun exposure
#TOP 7

Sun2Solar XD1 Solar Pool Heater

2 Pack
Sun2Solar XD1 Solar Pool Heater Cover
Sun2Solar XD1 Solar Powered Heater for Above-Ground Swimming Pools | Includes Bypass Kit, Clamps and Hoses | Heats Pools up to 15,000 Gallons | 2 Pack of Solar Heaters

The Sun2Solar Pool Heater is designed to warm your above-ground swimming pool efficiently. It uses eco-friendly solar energy to heat water, helping you enjoy warmer swims while reducing chills. With the included Bypass Kit, you can easily divert water away from the heater during cooler days, ensuring optimal heat generation when it’s sunny. The heater's compact design fits seamlessly with your pool setup, and it’s simple to install without needing any gas or electricity. You can extend your swimming season effortlessly while being kind to the environment.

What We Like
Eco-friendly solar operation
Easy installation
Bypass Kit included
Warms large pool sizes
#TOP 8

Goplus Solar Dome Swimming Pool Heater

SU-3178-PONEW
black
Goplus Solar Dome Swimming Pool Heater Cover
Goplus Solar Dome Swimming Pool Heater Above Ground, Inground Pool Warmer Equipment w/Hose Connector for Home Outdoor

Stay eco-friendly with the Goplus Solar Pool Heater. Absorb solar rays to heat your pool without electricity or gas. Its innovative dome design enhances heat transfer, eliminating the need for extra yard space. Installation is a breeze with detailed instructions. The domed cover protects against scalding and impact, while the upgraded hose prevents leaks. Suitable for various pool sizes, this heater is versatile. Heat up to 2641 gallons of water, extending your swimming season effortlessly.

What We Like
Eco-friendly heating
Innovative dome design
Easy installation & storage
#TOP 9

VARMINPOOL KSPF5 16000 BTU Pool Heater

VARMINPOOL
KSPF-005L3R1A1-6
Gray
VARMINPOOL KSPF5 16000 BTU Pool Heater Cover
VARMINPOOL 16000 BTU Above Ground Swimming Pool Heater for Pools up to 5400 Gallons, Pool Heat Pump Electric Pool Heater with Smart Inverter and WiFi Control Via App, 110V, Titanium Heat Exchanger

The VARMINPOOL 16000 BTU Heater is perfect for efficiently heating above ground pools up to 5,400 gallons. With its smart inverter technology, you can enjoy significant energy savings of up to 40% while ensuring your pool reaches the ideal temperature. The WiFi connectivity allows you to control and monitor the heater from your smartphone, making it easy to manage your pool's heating schedule no matter where you are. Plus, the high-performance titanium heat exchanger ensures quick heating and is resistant to corrosion, providing long-lasting reliability in all water types.

What We Like
Energy-efficient operation
Remote control via smartphone
Corrosion-resistant heat exchanger
Quick installation process
#TOP 10

JNICEANTAI 1800W Immersion Heater

JNICEANTAI
HEATER004
Yellow
JNICEANTAI 1800W Immersion Heater Cover
1800W Immersion Water Heater for Pool - Portable Pool Heater for Above Ground Pools, Inflatable Pool Heater, Stock Tank Pool Heater - Swimming Pool Heaters with Adjustable Thermostat and GFCI Plug

The JNICEANTAI Pool Heater is your go-to solution for quickly warming water in various settings, including above ground and inflatable pools. It heats up to 12 gallons in just minutes, ensuring you can enjoy your pool without waiting long. Made from durable 304 stainless steel, this heater is built to resist rust and last for years. Safety is a priority with its ETL certified plug and CE certified thermostat, giving you precise control over the temperature. Just remember to follow safety guidelines to ensure a worry-free swimming experience.

What We Like
Fast heating capability
Durable stainless steel construction
Safe operation features
Versatile for multiple uses
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What's the best way to heat an above ground pool?

Heat Pumps Using a heat pump to heat your above ground pool is our recommended method. Using a heat pump to heat your pool will give you the lowest running cost.

2. What kind of heater is best for above ground pool?

The fastest way to heat an above ground pool is with a gas pool heater. They can raise your water temperature by up to 30 degrees. But the most cost-efficient, effective method is a heat pump. Just keep in mind that pool heat pumps are less effective in dramatically colder temperatures.

3. What size heater do I need for my above ground pool?

To maintain the temperature, you need about 10 BTUs per hour, per square foot of surface, per degree above the air temperature. That means keeping a pool with a surface area of 300 square feet at 80 F (27 C) degrees in 60 F (15 C) degree weather would require 60,000 BTU per hour.

4. What is the cheapest way to heat an above ground pool?

The most efficient option is a water heater, but if you want something less expensive, opt for a heat pump or solar blanket. What's the cheapest way to heat an above-ground pool? Solar blankets are the cheapest option to buy and have little to no monthly operating costs.

Editor's Notes

During our swimming pool heater for above ground pools research, we found 24 swimming pool heater for above ground pools products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 7,096 customer reviews through our big data system to write the swimming pool heaters for above ground pools list. We found that most customers choose swimming pool heaters for above ground pools with an average price of $292.66.

The swimming pool heaters for above ground pools are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of swimming pool heaters for above ground pools, including Foinwer, villastar, Varpoolfaye, ECOPOOLTECH, GAME. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 70 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Bryan Hicks Avatar

Bryan Hicks is a professional gardener and a writer who lives in North Texas with his family and his dog. Bryan has spent more than half of his life surrounded by garden products. He has extensive experience in garden makeovers and maintenance and lawn care. His areas of expertise include outdoor decoration, gardening and garden design.