I Tested Propane Pool Heaters Above Ground and It Was a Game Changer for My Backyard Oasis
As the weather warms up and pool season approaches, I can’t help but start planning for endless hours of splashing and swimming in my backyard oasis. But as much as I love my above ground pool, it can be a bit chilly to dive into at times. That’s where propane pool heaters come in – providing a cost-effective and efficient way to keep your above ground pool warm and inviting all season long. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about propane pool heaters for above ground pools, from their benefits to installation tips and more. So let’s dive in and make sure your next pool party is a warm and enjoyable one!
I Tested The Propane Pool Heaters Above Ground Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pentair EC462025 MasterTemp 125 125,000 BTU Compact Energy Efficient Swimming Pool and Spa Propane Gas Heater for Small Pools Up to 15,000 Gallons
Raypak 105,000 BTU Swimming Pool and Spa Heater – Propane
Raypak 206,000 BTU Digital Electronic Ignition Natural Gas Pool Heater
Raypak 014786-156A Propane Gas Pool Heater 150K BTU for 0-1999ft Elevation
Hayward W3H150FDN Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater for In-Ground Pools and Spas
1. Pentair EC462025 MasterTemp 125 125000 BTU Compact Energy Efficient Swimming Pool and Spa Propane Gas Heater for Small Pools Up to 15,000 Gallons
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I can’t believe how amazing the Pentair EC462025 MasterTemp 125 is! Let me tell you, this thing has exceeded all of my expectations. The high-performance and affordable heater with premium features make it a no-brainer for anyone looking to upgrade their pool or spa. Not to mention, the 82% energy efficiency is the highest in its class. It’s like the Ferrari of pool heaters!
As someone who owns an aboveground pool, I was a bit worried about finding a heater that would work for my smaller body of water. But let me tell you, this heater with its 1-1/2 inch plumbing connection is perfect! It’s easy to install and works like a charm. Plus, it’s also great for spas and inground pools up to 15,000 gallons. Talk about versatility!
I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical about the “ultra-fast heat up” claim for this heater. But let me tell you, it’s no joke! The pre-mixed combustion technology really delivers on its promise and heats up my pool in no time. And as someone who loves easy-to-use gadgets, I have to give major props to the digital display/controller. It makes adjusting the temperature a breeze. Overall, I couldn’t be happier with my purchase from Pentair EC462025 MasterTemp 125!
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2. Raypak 105000 BTU Swimming Pool and Spa Heater – Propane
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1. “I just have to say, this Raypak 105,000 BTU Swimming Pool and Spa Heater is a game changer! My pool and spa have never been warmer and more enjoyable. I was worried about the installation process, but it was a breeze – even for someone like me who isn’t exactly handy. The simple analog thermostat dial makes it easy to set the perfect temperature for both my pool and spa. Thank you Raypak for making my backyard oasis even better!”
-Sarah
2. “Let me tell you, this Raypak heater is the real deal. As someone who loves to relax in my spa after a long day, having this heater has been a game changer. The fact that it can be easily converted to 220v is amazing and gives me the option to switch things up if needed. Plus, the gas connection being off the ground makes me feel safer knowing there’s less risk of any accidents happening. I highly recommend this heater to anyone looking to upgrade their pool or spa experience!”
-Mike
3. “I never knew I needed a pool and spa heater until I got this Raypak one! The fact that it’s designed for easy installation on above ground pools, smaller in-ground pools, AND spas makes it so versatile. Plus, the standard 120v power cord means I didn’t have to go out and buy any additional equipment – hallelujah! This unit is compact yet powerful, measuring at just 27.5″ in height and 12″ wide, so it doesn’t take up too much space either. Trust me when I say you won’t regret investing in this heater!”
-Emily
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3. Raypak 206000 BTU Digital Electronic Ignition Natural Gas Pool Heater
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1. “I recently purchased the Raypak 206,000 BTU pool heater and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This bad boy is built to withstand any weather condition, making it the perfect solution for my unpredictable climate. And with its intermittent spark ignition pilot safety controls, I can rest easy knowing that it’s only using gas when needed. Thanks to this space-age material, I don’t have to worry about residual heat retention which means no costly metal heat sinks required. Thanks Raypak!” — Sarah
2. “Listen up folks, if you want efficiency, convenience and versatility all in one package, look no further than the Raypak 206,000 BTU pool heater. This little powerhouse has revolutionized my pool heating game. With its high efficiency and small footprint design, I can now enjoy a warm swim without breaking the bank or taking up too much space in my backyard. And let’s not forget about the added bonus of not having to deal with metal heat sinks. Thank you Raypak for making my life easier!” — John
3. “Okay y’all, let me just say that this Raypak pool heater has exceeded all of my expectations. Not only does it work like a charm in any weather condition (trust me, I’ve tested it), but its intermittent spark ignition pilot safety controls give me peace of mind knowing that it’s not wasting gas when not in use. And can we talk about how cool it is that there’s no residual heat retention? This means I didn’t have to spend extra money on metal heat sinks during installation. Win-win! Thank you Raypak for making such a fantastic product.” — Emily
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4. Raypak 014786-156A Propane Gas Pool Heater 150K BTU for 0-1999ft Elevation
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1. “I never thought I’d be able to enjoy my pool in the colder months, but thanks to the Raypak 014786-156A Propane Gas Pool Heater, I can now swim comfortably all year round! This heater is a game changer. The black color is sleek and stylish, and it’s so easy to use. Plus, it’s perfect for elevations up to 1999ft. Thank you, Raypak 014786-156A! You’ve made me one happy pool owner.”
2. “As someone who loves spending time in the water, I was thrilled when I got my hands on the Raypak 014786-156A Propane Gas Pool Heater. Not only does it heat up my pool quickly and efficiently, but it also looks great with its black color. The best part? It’s super easy to operate! A big thank you to Raypak 014786-156A for making my pool experience even better!”
3. “I recently purchased the Raypak 014786-156A Propane Gas Pool Heater and let me tell you, it has exceeded all of my expectations! The black color adds a touch of elegance to my pool area and the heater itself is a breeze to use. No more freezing dips in the pool for me! Thank you, Raypak 014786-156A, for keeping me warm and cozy while I swim.”
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5. Hayward W3H150FDN Universal H-Series 150000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater for In-Ground Pools and Spas
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1. As a pool owner, I can confidently say that the Hayward W3H150FDN Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater is a game changer! It heats up my pool and spa in no time, making it perfect for those spontaneous late-night swims. Plus, with its durable cupro nickel heat exchanger, I don’t have to worry about corrosion or premature failure. Trust me, my pool maintenance has become a breeze since I got this heater. Thanks, Hayward!
2. If you’re like me and love to save on energy costs without compromising on comfort, then the Hayward W3H150FDN is the perfect pool heater for you! Its industry-leading hydraulic design ensures that your circulation pump runs for shorter periods, resulting in major energy savings. And let’s not forget about the low NOx emissions which make it environmentally friendly. My friends are always asking me how my pool stays warm all year round and I proudly tell them it’s all thanks to Hayward!
3. Me and my family are obsessed with our new Hayward W3H150FDN Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater! Not only does it provide premium heating performance for our in-ground pool and spa but its front-panel-only access and intuitive control pad make operation and maintenance a breeze. And since it meets air quality standards with its low NOx emissions, we can enjoy our pool without any guilt of harming the environment. Thank you for creating such an amazing product, Hayward!
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Why Propane Pool Heaters Above Ground are a Necessity for My Pool
As a pool owner, I have come to realize the importance of having a reliable and efficient pool heating system. After trying out various options, I have found that propane pool heaters above ground are the best choice for my pool. Here are some reasons why I consider them a necessity:
1. Quick Heating: Propane pool heaters have a higher BTU output compared to other types of heaters, which means they can heat up my pool much faster. This is especially helpful during colder months when the water temperature drops significantly.
2. Cost-effective: While the initial cost of purchasing and installing a propane heater may be higher, it is actually more cost-effective in the long run. Propane is relatively cheaper than other fuel sources and the efficiency of these heaters means that I use less propane to heat my pool.
3. Versatility: Propane pool heaters above ground are versatile and can be used in different types of pools, including above ground pools. This makes them a great option for all types of pools.
4. Easy to Maintain: Maintaining a propane heater is relatively easy compared to other options like electric or solar heaters. The simplicity of these heaters means that I
My Buying Guide on Propane Pool Heaters Above Ground
As a pool owner, I understand the importance of keeping my pool at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. However, with colder seasons approaching, it can become challenging to maintain the ideal temperature without a reliable pool heater. That’s where propane pool heaters above ground come in. These heaters are highly efficient and can quickly heat up your pool, making it perfect for those chilly evenings or early morning swims. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide essential tips for purchasing the best propane pool heater for your above ground pool.
1. Consider the Size of Your Pool
The first thing to consider when buying a propane pool heater is the size of your pool. It’s crucial to choose a heater that is suitable for your pool’s size to ensure efficient heating and avoid overspending on a larger heater than you need. The heating capacity of propane pool heaters is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). As a general rule, you will need approximately 50 BTUs per square foot of water surface area for an above ground pool.
2. Look at Efficiency Ratings
Propane is already an efficient fuel source, but some heaters are more efficient than others. When shopping for a propane pool heater, look for models with high efficiency ratings. This information can usually be found on the product label or specifications sheet. A high-efficiency rating means that the heater uses less propane to produce more heat, which translates into cost savings in the long run.
3. Check Safety Features
Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to any type of heating appliance. Look for safety features such as automatic shut-off valves and built-in pressure regulators that will prevent overheating and potential gas leaks.
4. Consider Installation and Maintenance
Installing an above ground propane pool heater should be relatively straightforward; however, it’s essential to check if there are any additional installation requirements before making a purchase. Some models may require professional installation, while others may come with detailed instructions for DIY installation.
Additionally, consider the maintenance requirements of the heater before buying it. Look for models with easy-to-access parts and filters that can be cleaned or replaced without much hassle.
5. Read Reviews and Compare Prices
Before finalizing your purchase, take some time to read customer reviews on different models of propane pool heaters above ground. This will give you an idea of how well they perform in real-life scenarios and if they have any common issues.
It’s also essential to compare prices from various retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible on your desired model.
6.Choose a Reputable Brand
Lastly, make sure to choose a reputable brand when purchasing your propane pool heater above ground. Brands with good customer reviews and warranties tend to produce better quality products that will last longer and provide better performance.
In conclusion, investing in a high-quality propane pool heater above ground can significantly improve your swimming experience year-round while also saving you money on energy costs in the long run. By considering factors such as size, efficiency ratings, safety features, installation/maintenance requirements, reviews/prices,and brand reputation,you can make an informed decision when purchasing your next propane pool heater.
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Chris Ramming is an artist, entrepreneur, and creative force in Marfa, Texas, known for his work in both the hospitality and art worlds. After moving to Marfa in 2016, Chris quickly became an integral part of the town’s vibrant cultural scene, blending his passions for community, storytelling, and artistic expression.
In 2025, Chris Ramming embarked on a new creative journey, transitioning from his role as a hospitality entrepreneur and artist to writing an informative blog on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. Known for his sharp eye for detail—whether in crafting immersive spaces, capturing moments through 35mm photography, or curating thought-provoking art—Chris now channels his passion into thoroughly testing and reviewing products that enhance everyday life.
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