Water is much colder than you might expect. The temperature can vary depending on the season, the location, and the depth, but even in the middle of summer, the temperature of your pool water is likely to be around 68 F.
In order to enjoy your pool for swimming, you need to heat the water to at least 80 F, but most people prefer the water to be in the mid-to high 80s.
The type of pool you have and how you heat it will affect how much it costs to heat your pool water.
We researched dozens of the most popular pool heaters currently available, evaluating them based on effectiveness, longevity, and ease of installation and use. Our top pick, the Hayward ProSeries SP1515 15,000-BTU Pool Heater, is easy to install and ready to use right out of the box.
Here are the best pool heaters to keep your pool warm, comfortable, and ready for summer.
Best Swimming Pool Heat Pumps: Editor Recommended
Our Editor’s Best Swimming Pool Heat Pumps Reviews
- CLEAN AND GREEN: The FH270 is powered by clean electricity, reducing the harmful environmental effects and cost of traditional heaters that use natural gas or propane. Our pumps instead move heat from the air into the water, which saves you money and is a breeze to maintain
- COMPATIBLE WITH: In ground pools up to 15,000 gallons and above ground pools up to 27 foot round or 18 by 33 foot oval. As with all heat pumps, we recommend using in a humid climate down to 50 degrees for best performance. Dry climates are better served by a traditional gas heater
- HIGH EFFICIENCY: Utilizing high-pressure differential compressors and titanium heat exchangers, FibroPool heat pumps are meticulously designed to be the most energy efficient in their class. You can rest comfortably knowing your family will enjoy years of late season swimming without feeling a squeeze on your electric bill
- RUGGED DESIGN: Enamel-coated steel chassis is designed to withstand outdoor elements season after season. Slim profile measures just 13"x38"x27", offering a wide range of mounting options. Conveniently installs with included 1 1/2 inch compression fittings on a 240 volt circuit
- EASY OPERATION: Digital control panel with an easy-to-read display offers convenient temperature setting and monitoring. Optional extension cable allows you to mount the control panel in a location that works best for you
- CLEAN AND GREEN: The FH135 is powered by clean electricity, reducing the harmful environmental effects and cost of traditional heaters that use natural gas or propane. Our pumps instead move heat from the air into the water, which saves you money and is a breeze to maintain
- COMPATIBLE WITH: In ground pools up to 7,500 gallons and above ground pools up to 18 foot round or 12 by 24 foot oval. As with all heat pumps, we recommend using in a humid climate down to 50 degrees for best performance. Dry climates are better served by a traditional gas heater
- HIGH EFFICIENCY: Utilizing high-pressure differential compressors and titanium heat exchangers, FibroPool heat pumps are meticulously designed to be the most energy efficient in their class. You can rest comfortably knowing your family will enjoy years of late season swimming without feeling a squeeze on your electric bill
- RUGGED DESIGN: Enamel-coated steel chassis is designed to withstand outdoor elements season after season. Slim profile measures just 16"x40"x24", offering a wide range of mounting options. Conveniently installs with included 1 1/2 inch compression fittings
- EASY OPERATION: Digital control panel with an easy-to-read display offers convenient temperature setting and monitoring. Optional extension cable allows you to mount the control panel in a location that works best for you
- Available for Above & in-Ground Pools* Max output 38864BTU/hr, the Pool heat pump EU100 is Ideal for Above Ground Pools with up to 10000 gallons of water, or in-ground pools up to 8000gallons. (Please refer to the temperature map of the United States to chose the appropriate model).
- Inverter heating system* By using Inverter technology, the compressor speed and working frequency can be automatically adjusted according to changes in water temperature, ensuring that the machine always operates at the best energy efficiency.
- Easy operation* The intelligent control IC automatically maintains the swimming pool at your desired temperature. Once it starts running, you don't need to adjust any settings, just enjoy a warm and comfortable swimming pool.
- Extend Your Swim Season & Fun* Nothing beats a warm pool for your kids, pets and the whole family!The EU100 pool heat pump is recommended to operate within the ambient temperature range of above 20°F and below 100°F, under optimal operating conditions can heat the water temperature to 105F, making it an ideal choice for extending the swimming pool season for months
- Save Money* Base on heat pump technology plus Inverter system, the EU100 heat pump absorbs energy from the air molecules and transfers it into the water. So the operation only requires very limited electric input, hence its high efficiency and heat conversion rate can reach a score of COP 5.5. In other words, for every cent of electricity spent, 4.7 times heat is generated!
- Heating and cooling electric heat pump pool and spa heater and cooler
- Spiral titanium heat exchanger
- Inverter compressor coupled with a low-speed fan motor for a serene pool and spa environment
- Whisper quiet operation
- LCD display digital control
- Extend Your Swimming Season: The TURBRO Manatee series pool heat pump warms pools of up to 104℉; great for cooler spring and fall days; maintains a comfortable water temperature but is not intended to turn your pool into a hot tub
- Cost-Saving Choice: High efficiency with a titanium heat exchanger; heating capacity of 20,000 BTU and a COP rating of 5.58; harnesses heat from the air; cut costs by up to 30% compared to using natural gas and up to 60% compared to propane
- For Above-Ground Pools: Compact design and portable for inflatable pools, frame pools, small spas, and smaller in-ground pools; compatible with saltwater pools
- One-Person Assembly: Comes with hose clamps, hose connectors, and an installation guide; simply connect hoses and plug it in to use, no professional help needed; water hoses and a pool filter are not included
- Safe Use: IPX4 waterproof rating; equipped with a UL STD. 943 compliant three-prong plug and an ETL-approved GFCI leakage protection switch; automatically or manually lock the control panel to prevent accidental changes
- NEXT GEN TECHNOLOGY: Based on our best selling FH270, the FH285 heat pump has been upgraded with next generation, full inverter technology, allowing it to warm your pool from even lower temperatures while using even less electricity
- CLEAN AND GREEN: The FH285-I is powered by clean electricity, reducing the harmful environmental effects and cost of traditional heaters that use natural gas or propane. Our pumps instead move heat from the air into the water, which saves you money and is a breeze to maintain
- COMPATIBLE WITH: In ground pools up to 17,500 gallons and above ground pools up to 27 foot round or 18 by 33 foot oval. As with all heat pumps, we recommend using in a humid climate down to 55 degrees for best performance. Dry climates are better served by a traditional gas heater
- RUGGED DESIGN: Weather resistant chassis is designed to withstand outdoor elements season after season. Compact profile measures just 26"x26"x31", offering a wide range of mounting options. Conveniently installs with included fittings
- EASY OPERATION: Digital control panel with an easy-to-read display offers quick temperature setting and monitoring. Wi-Fi and app integration allow you to make adjustments from the convenience of your phone
- CLEAN AND GREEN: The FH255 is powered by clean electricity, reducing the harmful environmental effects and cost of traditional heaters that use natural gas or propane. Our pumps instead move heat from the air into the water, which saves you money and is a breeze to maintain
- COMPATIBLE WITH: In ground pools up to 10,000 gallons and above ground pools up to 21 foot round or 15 by 30 foot oval. As with all heat pumps, we recommend using in a humid climate down to 50 degrees for best performance. Dry climates are better served by a traditional gas heater
- HIGH EFFICIENCY: Utilizing high-pressure differential compressors and titanium heat exchangers, FibroPool heat pumps are meticulously designed to be the most energy efficient in their class. You can rest comfortably knowing your family will enjoy years of late season swimming without feeling a squeeze on your electric bill
- RUGGED DESIGN: Enamel-coated steel chassis is designed to withstand outdoor elements season after season. Slim profile measures just 16"x40"x24", offering a wide range of mounting options. Conveniently installs with included 1 1/2 inch compression fittings
- EASY OPERATION: Digital control panel with an easy-to-read display offers convenient temperature setting and monitoring. Optional extension cable allows you to mount the control panel in a location that works best for you
- ♨️ Full Frequency Conversion Design: WOPOLTOP 30KW pool type heat pump is suitable for both above ground and underground water pools, with a recommended maximum pool capacity of 26000 gallons. The compressor and fan adopt frequency conversion technology to minimize power consumption and eliminate the need for frequent on/off cycles, thereby saving energy.
- ♨️ Advanced Compressor: Equipped with high-quality compressors, the 100000 BTU heat pump can provide excellent heating power in different working conditions, with a COP of up to 6.8, ensuring first-class performance and stability. The fully DC variable frequency fan motor and compressor can adjust the heating capacity within the maximum range, achieving the most efficient operation.
- ♨️ WiFi Control for Heating and Cooling: The heat pump has a dual function of heating and cooling, and the wireless WiFi control function allows for remote and complete control of the heating system of the swimming pool. Seamless adjustment of settings and monitoring of temperature levels through smartphones or tablets brings you endless convenience and peace of mind.
- ♨️ Noise Reduction and Vibration Reduction Design: The high-quality compressor adopts anti vibration technology, and the set includes four sound insulation pads supported by sound insulation materials. All connection points are equipped with additional sound insulation materials, effectively reducing vibration and damping noise. Maintain a noise level of around 47~58 decibels within a distance of approximately 1 meter.
- ♨️ High Quality ABS Material: The casing of the WOPOLTOP heat pump is made of high-quality ABS material, ensuring high corrosion resistance, rust resistance, durability, and lightweight. It can withstand outdoor conditions such as sunlight and rain well (attention should be paid to preventing lightning strikes), effectively extending the service life of the equipment.
- Extend Your Swimming Season: The TURBRO Beluga series pool heat pump is designed to maintain a consistent pool temperature, allowing you to enjoy swimming during cooler spring and fall days; please note that it is not intended to turn your pool into a hot tub
- Inverter Technology: The Beluga series features full DC inverter compressor; intelligently adjusts the heating power based on ambient temperature, water flow, and set temperature to ensure a stable water temperature
- Cost-Saving Choice: Harnesses heat from the air with a heating capacity of up to 75,000 BTU and a COP rating of up to 16.2; cuts costs by up to 40% compared to using natural gas and up to 70% compared to propane
- For Variable Pools: Suitable for swimming or spa pools up to 21,100 gallons and a maximum size of 28.3-foot round or 20 by 40-foot oval; not recommended for inflatable pools due to low water pressure; features a titanium heat exchanger; corrosion resistant to chemicals and saltwater; compatible with seawater environments
- Smart Control: Operates through an intuitive control panel or via a mobile app; can set two timer periods, easily managed from either the panel or your smartphone
- Above Ground Pool Electric Heater: Transform your pool into a cozy spot with this pool heat pump. Designed for pools up to 15 ft in diameter or 5,400 gallons in volume, it keeps your ideal temperature, allowing you to swim for longer period
- Energy-Saving Technology: Our smart inverter technology allows the heat pump to automatically adjust its power from 0 to 100%, depending on the demand. This efficient system helps significantly reduce energy consumption and lower operating costs
- Effortless Remote Control: The WiFi control unit allows for seamless remote access. A few simple taps on your phone via our APP will have the heat pump running as needed, keeping your pool ready without constant supervision
- Enhanced Protection: The galvanized steel housing and evaporator protection shield ensure our heat pump withstands harsh weather conditions, protecting the evaporator fins from damage. This ensures consistent, optimized performance year-round
- Tough and Resilient: The titanium spiral heat exchanger ensures our pump withstands diverse water conditions, even salt water. Its corrosion resist ability allows durable heating for your pool
Best Swimming Pool Heat Pumps Buying Guide
Before choosing the best swimming pool heat pump you should consider the following options:
1. Power Consumption: One of the most important aspects to consider when buying a swimming pool heat pump is power consumption.
The higher the power consumption, the higher your electricity bills will be. The ideal pool heat pump will have a low power consumption so that your bills don’t go up.
In general, the more efficient the heat pump, the higher the annual operating cost. This is because the energy is extracted from the surrounding environment, which has a low temperature, and therefore requires more energy input to heat the pool water.
You can find the power consumption of a heat pump in two ways. First is the energy efficiency ratio (EER). The higher the EER, the lower the operating cost.
The second way is the input rate measure (IM). The lower the IM, the lower the operating cost.
For example, if a heat pump has an EER of 8 and an IM of 1.8, then the operating cost will be half that of a heat pump with an EER of 10 and an IM of 2.0.
The higher the EER or IM, the lower the operating cost. Therefore, the ideal heat pump will have a low EER and IM.
Things to note:
The EER is calculated based on the pool water temperature of 35 degrees Celsius and the air temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. Therefore, the EER is different from the energy efficiency label (EFL) on the heat pump.
The input rate measure is calculated based on the water temperature of 20 degrees Celsius and the air temperature of 30 degrees Celsius. Therefore, the IM is different from the energy label on the heat pump.
The EER and IM are calculated based on the standard operation mode of the heat pump, and therefore, the real energy consumption will be higher than the standard operation.
2. Capacity: You need to purchase a heat pump that can meet the temperature requirements of your swimming pool. The ideal heat pump will have a large capacity so that it can heat the water in a short period of time.
The larger the capacity, the higher the energy input and operating cost. Therefore, you should purchase a heat pump with a capacity that meets your needs but doesn’t exceed them.
What else you should know about the best swimming pool heat pumps
1. What are the best swimming pool heat pumps?
Some of the best swimming pool heat pumps on the market include the Hayward HeatPro HP21104, the Pentair UltraTemp 70, and the Jandy LXi.
2. How do swimming pool heat pumps work?
A swimming pool heat pump is a device that uses the heat from the air to heat the water in a swimming pool. The heat pump consists of a compressor, a condenser, and an evaporator. The compressor pumps the refrigerant through the system. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the air and transfers it to the water. The water is then circulated through the pool.
3. How do I choose a swimming pool heat pump?
There are a few things you need to consider when choosing a swimming pool heat pump:
1. The size of your pool – you need to make sure the heat pump is powerful enough to heat your pool.
2. The climate you live in – heat pumps work best in warmer climates.
3. Your budget – heat pumps can be expensive, so you need to make sure you can afford the one you want.
4. How do I install a swimming pool heat pump?
Most swimming pool heat pumps come with easy-to-follow installation instructions. In general, you will need to install the heat pump near your pool, connect it to a power source, and then connect it to your pool’s filtration system.
5. How do I maintain a swimming pool heat pump?
The best way to maintain a swimming pool heat pump is to regularly check and clean the filters, as well as the coils. You should also make sure that the pump is properly lubricated and that the unit is free of any debris.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best swimming pool heat pumps. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best swimming pool heat pumps will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.