If you want to make the most of your outdoor swimming pool, a pool heater is a must. They’re a worthwhile investment for making the most use of your pool while the season allows it, whether you like to make your pool as warm as bath water or just get it up to a comfortable temp for nighttime dips in late spring. Without a heater, mother nature is your thermostat—and even a long day of bright sun isn’t always enough to meaningfully change the temp of your pool.

There are several types of pool heaters that work in tandem with your in- or above-ground pool. They’re powered by solar, gas, or electric, and some models even have cooling abilities to take the temp down several notches during sweltering stretches of summer. If you’re concerned about your electric bill going up, there are solar-powered models (and you can save even more if you add an insulated pool cover).

No matter which type of pool heater you choose, we bet you’ll discover that it pays for itself, so to speak, in the value it offers. Read on for our top pool heater recommendations, plus advice to consider before you shop.

The size of your pool generally determines which type of pool heater is best for your needs. You can use low-power solar heaters to power small pools, while large pools benefit from powerful gas models.

Electric models can work well for both but may get expensive to operate for big swimming pools compared to using natural gas. If you opt for a gas or electric heater, you’ll also need to select a model with an appropriate BTU rating for your pool’s size.

There are several reputable brands that manufacture pool heaters. Here are some popular pool heater brands:

Hayward: Hayward is a well-known brand that offers a range of pool heating solutions, including gas heaters, heat pumps, and electric heaters. They are known for their energy-efficient products and reliable performance.

Pentair: Pentair is another trusted brand in the pool industry. They provide a variety of pool heaters, including gas, electric, and heat pump models. Pentair heaters are known for their durability and advanced features.

Jandy: Jandy, a part of Zodiac Pool Systems, manufactures high-quality pool heaters, including gas and heat pump models. They offer efficient heating solutions with advanced features such as digital controls and self-diagnostic capabilities.

Rheem: Rheem is a reputable brand that produces a range of residential and commercial pool heaters. They offer gas and heat pump heaters designed for different pool sizes and climates. Rheem heaters are known for their performance and reliability.

Raypak: Raypak specializes in gas-fired pool heaters and has been in the industry for over 70 years. They are known for their durable and efficient heaters, offering a wide range of models suitable for various pool sizes.

Sta-Rite: Sta-Rite, a brand under the Pentair umbrella, manufactures pool heaters that include gas and heat pump options. They focus on energy efficiency and offer reliable heating solutions for both residential and commercial pools.

These are just a few of the popular pool heater brands available on the market. When choosing a pool heater, it’s essential to consider factors such as your pool size, energy efficiency requirements, and budget to select the best option for your needs.

which pool heater brand is right for you?