9 best swimming pool heaters gas
Gas swimming pool heaters are essential pieces of equipment designed to heat swimming pool water efficiently using natural gas or propane as the energy source. These heaters are commonly used to extend the swimming season, provide comfortable water temperatures, and enhance the overall enjoyment of a pool. Here's what you need to know about gas swimming pool heaters:
Energy Source:
- Gas pool heaters primarily use natural gas or propane as their energy source. Natural gas heaters are more common in areas with a natural gas supply infrastructure, while propane heaters are used in regions where natural gas is less accessible.
Heating Process:
- Gas pool heaters work by burning gas in a combustion chamber. A heat exchanger then transfers the heat generated from the combustion process to the pool water.
- The heated water is then circulated back into the pool, gradually raising its temperature to the desired level.
Types:
- Gas pool heaters come in different types, including:
- Millivolt Heaters: These heaters use a standing pilot light and are manually controlled.
- Electronic Ignition Heaters: They feature electronic ignition systems for more efficient and convenient operation.
- High-Efficiency Heaters: Some models are designed with high-efficiency features to reduce energy consumption and emissions.
- Gas pool heaters come in different types, including:
Size and Capacity:
- Choosing the right-sized heater is crucial for efficient heating. Factors like pool size, desired temperature increase, and climate should be considered when selecting a heater with an appropriate BTU (British Thermal Units) rating.
Installation:
- Gas pool heaters require professional installation by a qualified technician. Proper ventilation and gas line connections are essential for safety and efficiency.
Temperature Control:
- Gas pool heaters typically include thermostats for temperature control, allowing pool owners to set and maintain their preferred water temperature.
Efficiency and Cost:
- Gas heaters can provide rapid heating, making them suitable for occasional use and colder climates.
- Operating costs depend on factors like gas prices, heater efficiency, and pool size.Gas heaters can be more expensive to run compared to other heating methods like heat pumps or solar heaters.
Maintenance:
- Regular maintenance is crucial to keep gas pool heaters operating efficiently. This may include cleaning the burners, checking for gas leaks, and ensuring proper ventilation.
Environmental Impact:
- Gas heaters emit greenhouse gases during operation, which can have environmental impacts. High-efficiency models can help reduce emissions and energy consumption.
Compatibility:
- Gas pool heaters can be used in conjunction with other pool heating methods like solar or heat pumps for a more energy-efficient heating system.
Gas swimming pool heaters are a popular choice for pool owners who prioritize rapid heating and consistent temperature control. When properly sized and maintained, they can provide reliable and comfortable swimming conditions, extending the usability of the pool throughout the year.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best swimming pool heaters gas on the market
Pentair EC462025 MasterTemp 125 125,000 BTU Compact Energy Efficient Swimming Pool and Spa Natural Gas Heater for Small Pools Up to 15,000 Gallons
Product description
The Pentair EC462025 MasterTemp Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater is the definition of efficiency, convenience, and reliability. This small-but-mighty heater is user-friendly with safety features you can rely on to keep your system running smoothly. Powered by natural gas and boasting 125,000 BTUs, this pool heater will keep your pool at the perfect temperature so you can always enjoy pool time. Suitable for smaller bodies of water, this compact pool heater can warm pools with up to 15,000 gallons of water. This swimming pool heater may be small, but it has 82-percent efficiency as compared to larger pool heaters. The housing design is built with corrosion and UV-resistance for lasting durability, while the handy safety features ensure your unit doesn't overheat and is easy to shut off when servicing is needed. This pool and spa heater includes an easy-to-read, rotatable digital display and user-friendly indicator lights for simple system operation and monitoring. Best of all, the quiet operation makes sure not to impose on leisure pool time. User-friendly and powerful, this Pentair MasterTemp Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater won't disappoint.
- GREAT FOR SMALLER POOLS: Natural gas heater boasts 125,000 BTUs, designed for smaller bodies of water up to 15,000 gallons
- COMPACT AND EFFICIENT: Compact design with 82-percent efficiency as compared to larger pool heaters; Quiet operation makes sure not to impose on leisure pool time
- THOUGHTFUL, USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN:: Rotating digital display allows for any installation rotation and is easy to read; User-friendly indicator lights allow for simple system operation and monitoring; Corrosion and UV-resistant housing deliver durable, lasting use
- SAFETY FEATURES: Water pressure and stack flue sensor for overheat prevention, auto shut-off when the temperature exceeds factory limits, and manual shut-off for servicing; Certified for Low NOx emissions
- SPECIFICATIONS: Voltage: 120/240V; Intake/discharge plumbing: 1.5-inch; 0.75-inch gas line up to 50 feet from source (not included); Dimensions (L x W x H): 31.5 x 21 x 23 inches; Weight: 80 pounds
Raypak PR206AEN 206K BTU Electronic Ignition Natural Gas Swimming Pool Heater
Raypak
Product description
PolyTuf Textured Powder Coating The Raypak gas heater has a polyester coated,non corrosive cabinet that is more durable than solventborne and waterborne coated metal cabinets. Every piece of sheet metal goes through a 7 stage wash system. making certain the power paint has a perfect bond. Underneath the tough, yet beautiful finish you will galvanized metal that offers superior rust prevention and years of durable service. Wind Resistant Design No need for fans to combat drafting problems under normal conditions. This heater is designed to draft naturally in outdoor installations with its exclusive low profile design. It is so thoughtfully and carefully designed it actually protects itself from the things that tend to stifle ordinary pool and spa heaters. It delivers uninterrupted heating performance regardless of falling leaves, wind, airborne debris, rain, downdrafts, updrafts, sleet, snow, etc. Cast Iron Headers Rugged cast iron headers with porcelainized waterways provide the strength that tough ASME requirements demand. All Copper Fin Tube Heat Exchanger The fin tubes of the heat exchanger are each made from a single piece of extruded copper. This integral fin design allows maximum heat transfer to be attained and maintained. Cupro nickel is also available as an optional upgrade. Condensation Protection The Unitherm Governor inside the header helps reduce condensation from low inlet water temperatures. It automatically regulates the water flow to help keep the water temperature in the heat exchanger above 105°F. Both water temperature and water flow rate are controlled to eliminate condensation, sooting, and scale build up that can shorten heater life. Fuel Efficient Energy smart Raypak heaters consistently achieve the highest efficiency ratings. They exceed all federal and state standards.
- Digital control with liquid crystal display (LCD) for temperature selection and heater settings
- Capron resin headers prevent rust stains from harming pool surface
- Plumb directly from provided 2" PVC threaded union
- Smart microprocessor controls diagnostic read out and continuously monitors operating status
- High efficiency, Small footprint
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this unit sit on a 24x24 inch pad |
| Answer: | No 30x30 |
| Question: | I have a hard line 110 electric line by pool for the filtration pump. Is this enough to tap into to run the heating unit |
| Answer: | I have the Millivolt version of this unit, and i have it on 110, is only used for elec. spark(like stove), and for control panel, works great, love this heater |
| Question: | What is the differance between electroni ignition and millvolt raypak heathers |
| Answer: | Millvolt has a dial for temp and no read out for the temp. Also the millvolt needs not electrical hook up |
| Question: | do they make this model with intake & outtake on left side instead of right side |
| Answer: | Hi, you can switch it the other way around, thanks, |
Raypak 014784 PR156AENC 150000 BTU Natural Gas Heater
Raypak
Product description
Raypak 014784 - 156A Natural Gas Pool Heater is 150,000 BTU and uses 120V or 240V for installation. This unit is rated for 0-4999ft Elevation and uses corrosion Polymer Headers. The Raypak 156A is the perfect choice for above-ground pools and spas. Raypak is the only manufacturer of this size heater to use all the engineering and components utilized in our bigger gas heaters. The unit is fully serviceable and built for years of operation. This may be our smaller sized pool and spa heater, but
- Polyester-Coated, non-corrosive external cabinet for added durability.
- Doesn't require fans to combat drafting problems.
- Polymer headers prevent rust stains on your pool or spa surface.
- All-Copper-Fin-Tube Heat Exchanger. Made from a single piece of extruded copper.
- State of the art diagnostic reporting and fault recording.
Raypak 336,000 BTU Digital Electronic Ignition Natural Gas Pool Heater
Raypak
Product description
The Raypak Digital Natural Gas Heater is engineered to last. Looking at the heater, you can see that it's designed differently than most heaters on the market. The Raypak Digital Natural Gas Heater's unique "pagoda design" enables the heater to stay effective during high wind speeds and downdrafts. The cabinet of the heater is constructed from a galvanized metal, then powder coated with a 7 stage process to outlast the elements and corrosion. Inside the unit, the heater boasts polymer resin
- LCD digital display provides accurate temperature
- Monitors operational status as well as service diagnostics
- High-wind resistance
- Corrosion-resistant headers
- Unitherm governor prevents condensation
User questions & answers
| Question: | How much did your gas bill rise |
| Answer: | went from a 20 y/o Raypak 185,000 BTU to a 266,000 BTU a year ago. Much better heating time and high efficiency. Natural gas cost same as before due to efficiency and quicker water heat up time. |
| Question: | Does this heater work at an altitude of 5000 feet |
| Answer: | No, on their website it states it is for elevations 2000ft or less. |
| Question: | Is this the digital model? I see in the description something about a mechanical thermostat; don't want the pilot light, want the electronic ignition |
| Answer: | I think I recall seeing that also. But the thermostat is totally digital. I'm not sure if has pilot light I'm not home or I would take a look. I don't recall lighting one and it does everything automatically. I just set the temperature and forget it. This is a great heater. |
| Question: | do they make this model with intake & outtake on left side instead of right side |
| Answer: | Hi, you can switch it the other way around, thanks, |
Raypak 105,000 BTU Swimming Pool and Spa Heater - Propane
Raypak
Product description
Raypak 014781 - 106A Propane Pool Heater is 105,000 BTU and uses 120V or 240V for installation. This unit is rated for 0-1999ft Elevation and uses corrosion Polymer Headers. The Raypak 106A is the perfect choice for above-ground pools and spas. Raypak is the only manufacturer of this size heater to use all the engineering and components utilized in our bigger gas heaters. The unit is fully serviceable and built for years of operation. This may be our smallest pool and spa heater, but it's built
- Designed for easy installation on above ground pools, smaller in-ground pools, and spas
- Standard 120v 3-prong power cord or can be easily converted to 220v
- Simple analog thermostat dial for accurate pool and spa temperature setting
- Gas connection is 1/2" NPT and measures 4 5/8" off the ground level
- Unit measures 27.5" H x 12" wide X 24" Deep
Raypak 406,000 BTU Digital Natural Gas Pool Heater w/Cupro Nickel | RAY-014941
Product description
The Raypak Swimming Pool/Spa LCD 406,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater with Cupro Nickel has everything a pool owner needs to have reliable and efficient pool heating. Not only does this Raypak heater maintain thermal efficiency above 83 percent and utilize its Unitherm Governor to keep water temperature above 105 F, it consistently exceeds the highest state and federal efficiency standards. In addition, the Raypak includes digital control with LCD display for temperature selection and heater settings, and is diligently designed with high quality materials to stand up to wind and changing climate conditions. For the best in pool heaters, look no further than the Raypak Swimming Pool/Spa LCD 406,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater with Cupro Nickel.
- Constructed with the highest quality integral Cupro nickel fin tube available which helps the unit stand up to the harshest of applications, like low pH, high flow or heavy use
- Digital control with LCD display for temperature selection and heater settings
- Capron resin headers prevent rust stains from harming pool surface
- Plumb directly from provided 2 inch PVC threaded union
- Smart microprocessor controls diagnostic read out and continuously monitors operating status
User questions & answers
| Question: | Has anyone had this model for a while and can lmk if it’s reliable & or problems? raypak 406,000 btu digital gas pool heater w/ cupro nickel |
| Answer: | We have had the heater for about 4 months and it works great. Heats the jacuzzi twice as fast as the old heater which is the same model but much older. Love it. |
| Question: | will this unit replace my m336A hat. gas heater? Saltwater pool |
| Answer: | Chances are you are in luck. I replaced a LAARS Lite 2 335k BTU Natural Gas heater with the 406k BTU Raypak heater. Connections were essentially the same although I took the opportunity to replumb my system and improve the foundation for the heater. I was pleased to learn by a qualified gas plumber that made the final connections that I did not have to increase the size of gas line feed. As I was unhappy with the metal rot in my old heater, I recently completed a simple roof over the unit to reduce precipitation from the unit, and I elevated the unit a few inches on a concrete foundation. I also addressed drainage to ensure no water sat on the unit, internally or otherwise. The Raypak is conditioned for weather, so this my be overkill, but the investment is significant and I felt the unit should receive best care to last over ten years. All that said, the unit works wonderfully, heats my 30,000 gal in-ground pool quickly, and has reduced the cost of maintaining the pool during normal use season. The controls on the unit are such that the unit heats too the desired temperature, then shuts off. A fireman's switch on the pump shuts the heater down 15 minutes before the pump shuts down, so I could improve the programming significantly over the LAARS unit. Best always, Drew |
| Question: | Can this unit be used in a salt pool |
| Answer: | I just converted my pool from chlorine to salt this season. The heater is working fine. |
| Question: | What are the voltage & amps requirements |
| Answer: | From the manufacturer: The Electronic Intermittent Ignition Device automatically lights the pilot and main burners upon a call for heat. The heater is supplied with a dual-voltage transformer for 120 VAC or 240 VAC input power hookup. When operating on 120VAC power, the 206A-406A units draw 4 amps. When operating on 240VAC power, the 206A-406A units draw 2 amps. WARNING: Heaters are factory-wired for 240 VAC power supply. DO NOT attempt to operate at 208 VAC. |
Hayward W3H400FDP Universal H-Series 400,000 BTU Pool and Spa Heater, Propane
Hayward
Product description
Hayward’s Universal H-Series 1400,000 BTU Propane Gas Pool & Spa Heater provides reliable, long-lasting comfort. Built with a durable cupro nickel heat exchanger, it offers exceptional protection against corrosion and premature failure caused by unbalanced water chemistry, ensuring you get season after season of premium heating performance. The Universal H-Series boasts industry-leading hydraulic performance coupled with lightning-fast speed-to-heat capability—giving you less time to wait and more time in the water. Its low NOx emissions meet air quality standards in all low-NOx areas, so you can rest easy knowing its environmental impact is low, too.
- The Hayward Universal H-Series 400,000 BTU Propane Heater delivers premium heating performance for years of reliable, long-lasting comfort
- A durable cupro nickel heat exchanger offers exceptional protection against corrosion and premature failure caused by unbalanced water chemistry
- Industry-leading hydraulic design reduces circulation pump run time to provide major energy savings
- Front-panel-only access and intuitive control pad provide easy operation, service and maintenance
- Low NOx emissions meet air quality standards in all low-NOx areas, ensuring low environmental impact
User questions & answers
| Question: | gas consumption of the model 150, per first hour running at full capacity |
| Answer: | I have the 250 - it uses a lot of propane. I go thru about 5-10lbs per hour. I am heating my water to 85 degrees |
| Question: | How long would the 150,000 BTU take to heat only our attached hot tub |
| Answer: | We heat our pool which is 26,000 gallons 1-2 degrees and hour. We are very happy with it! |
| Question: | Is it worth the time and money to rebuild my 10 year old h250ped2 or buy a new one |
| Answer: | Buy a new one. They are so much more efficient. I worked on my old pool heater until it caught fire. The new one is so much safer and problem free. |
| Question: | Does this heater come with any warranties |
| Answer: | Theoretically, yes, BUT getting Hayward to honor them is very, very, VERY nearly impossible. Had I not bought from a retailer where I was able to reach a live person who then went to bat for me, I would have been left with Hayward shrugging and saying they had no warranty providers in my STATE. Seriously. (I have to say that, had I known then what I know now about Hayward propane heaters, I would have stayed with my prior electric pool heater and spent the money switching over my hot water heater to gas instead.) |
Product features
Universal H-Series Propane Heaters
An efficiently heated pool or spa lets you control your swim season and provides luxurious comfort that fits your lifestyle. Universal H-Series heaters from Hayward offer hydraulically efficient solutions for any pool or spa. They also are environmentally responsible because of their low NOx emissions so you can enjoy efficient luxury and peace of mind - season after season.
Cupro Nickel State-of-the-art Finn Plate Heat Exchanger
Only Hayward constructs ALL heat exchangers of highly resilient Cupro Nickel for greater durability and longevity even in salt-based, high flow or aggressive water chemistry conditions.
Superior Hydraulic Performance and Reliability
Patented polymer header design provides superior hydraulic performance to save energy and protect against the damaging effects of erosion from high flow conditions to further improve reliability.
Forced Draft Combustion System
The Forced draft combustion system constantly moves air through the combustion chamber at a precise flow rate, eliminating all outside weather variables that can affect heating performance, such as high wind conditions.
L.E.D. Digital Control Panel
Intuitive and easy to read L.E.D. Control Panel provides digital temperature readout, diagnostics and electronic 'lock-out' of temperature set-point. Digital control accuracy saves time and money getting the pool to the perfect temperature.
Pentair 461059 Master Temp 125K BTU Natural Gas Swimming Pool Heater
Pentair
Product description
Saving you money, energy, and hassle, the Pentair MasterTemp 125 is a High-Performance Pool Heater that's suitable to heat pools or spas up to 15,000 gallons.
- Master Temp 125K BTU
- Package Dimensions: 43.0 L x 28.0 H x 30.0 W (inches)
- That's suitable to heat pools or spas up to 15,000 gallons.
- Natural Gas
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this heater work with a 1.5 hp motor |
| Answer: | It's possiblity that lightning went thru the electric fence system and blew the bulb or the electrical components. Installing a lightning arrestor will prevent this from happening again |
| Question: | Does this come with a cord |
| Answer: | No, it must be a pulsating fence charger to use our lights. Thanks: John |
| Question: | what size gas line is required for this unit |
| Answer: | As long as the power is under 2 joules it should work fine. Mine works perfect and has for two years now. It is nice to hear the click and see the light. I would recommend it for any fence. It is much easier than getting the tester out and checking it. |
| Question: | does this heater use natural gas |
| Answer: | If you have a LED model Electric Fence Light you have to buy the LED replacement bulbs. The Electric Fence Light Z-Bulb Plus is a whole new light and the bulb is hard wired in and you don't change it. It will work on most all chargers that are 10 mile chargers and larger. Thanks: John |
Fafco 10028 Universal 24ft x 3.75in Solar Panel Heating Kit with Pre Plumbed Paneling and Built in Manual Bypass Valve for Above Ground Swimming Pools
Product description
Warm your pool without burning your wallet. This Fafco 10028 Papa Bear 24-Foot Solar Panel Heating Collector Kit is just what you need for simple, efficient pool heating. Made for above-ground pools, you can raise your pool's water temperature by up to 10 degrees and cool your pool at night so you can get a comfortable swim any time of day! This pool heater is user-friendly and designed to set up anywhere your pool is. Lay flat on the ground or mount on a rack for versatile placement (rack sold separately). To install, simply unroll the panel, connect your pool filter outlet to the system inlet, connect the system outlet to your pool inlet (connection hoses sold separately), and let the sun do the rest. The pre-plumbed solar panel measures 24 feet long and 3.75 inches deep and features a built-in manual bypass for easy On/Off operation. This solar pool heater works with any pool pump so you don't have to fuss with compatibility charts. With the Fafco 10028 Papa Bear 24-Foot Solar Panel, there's no gas line, gas bill, or pollution. What's not to love? So save yourself some time and money and step up your pool heater game!
- MADE FOR ABOVE-GROUND POOLS: Warms your above-ground pool for a longer, more comfortable swimming season; Produces over 148,000 BTUs per day, raises water temperature up to 10 degrees, and cools your swimming pool at night
- 24-FOOT PANEL: Pre-plumbed panel designed with built-in manual bypass valve for easy On/Off; Measures 24 feet long, 48 inches wide, and 3.75 inches deep
- EASY SETUP: Sets up anywhere your pool is and starts heating immediately with heat from the sun; Lay flat on the ground or mount on a rack (sold separately) for versatile placement
- INSTALLS IN 30 MINUTES: Simply unroll, connect your pool filter outlet to system inlet, and connect system outlet to pool inlet (connection hoses sold separately); Sets up in about 30 minutes; Weight: 40 pounds
- USER-FRIENDLY CONVENIENCE: Works with any pool pump so you don't have to fuss with compatibility charts; Using solar heat, there's no gas line, gas bill, or pollution; Manufacturer warranty: 3-year warranty
User questions & answers
| Question: | What method do you use to turn on/off water flow automatically through the heater based on a temperature difference between the pool and heater |
| Answer: | In a word; yes. |
| Question: | Is this kit for above-ground or in-ground pools? Ours is in-ground |
| Answer: | Hi, Amazon Customer, Thank you for your question. Plastic. We hope this response was helpful. Please let us know if you have any other questions. Best Regards, Zodiac Pool Systems Manufacturer of Jandy, Polaris, and Zodiac products |
| Question: | Has anybody use this for an inground pool? And how did it work |
| Answer: | Yes, hose and attachments for hooking |
| Question: | How many gallons of water does the 4 ft x 20 ft panel itself hold |
| Answer: | Yes |
| Question: | does it have a electronic ignition or gas pilot |
| Answer: | Yes, a flow gauge is included. |
| Question: | Is it a plug in or does it need to direct wired |
| Answer: | No |
| Question: | Is this unit ok for outside ? thanks |
| Answer: | Jennie,if you would have asked, "Can this product not be used on an above ground pool with a heavy duty vinyl liner?" I would have answered, "sure". Since you know something that I do not know, I must assume that the oscillating action that moves the device might get stuck on a fold or crease on the bottom and "chew" a hole in the liner. |
| Question: | Is it true that there is no warranty support if the home owner install this heater to a 15yr old Jandy |
| Answer: | no speak the language |
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