Natural Gas Pool Heater

H aving your pool in the backyard is for sure a major convenience, especially during summertime. Apart from cooling off anytime you want, you also have the desired privacy. Even so, it’s kind of frustrating knowing that you can use the pool only a couple of months per year. This is when a natural gas heater does its job accordingly. Helped by a pool heater, you can now enjoy the pool’s water for the whole year, as it will increase the water’s temperature in no time. We’ve specially picked and reviewed the top units on the market, just catch a glimpse and compare them!

Top 7 Natural Gas Pool Heaters Compared

Photo	Product Name	Material	BTU	Temperature Control	Plumbing Connection	Price
Best Overall	1. Raypak RAY-014941	Copper-nickel	406,000	Digital	2” threaded unions	Check Price
Our Choice	2. Pentair 460734	Copper-nickel	300,000	Digital	2” threaded unions	Check Price
Best for Cold Climates	3. Raypak 266,000 Pool Heater	Copper-nickel	266,000	Digital	2” threaded unions	Check Price
Best for In-Ground Pools	4. Hayward H250FDN	Copper-nickel	250,000	Digital	2” threaded unions	Check Price
	5. Sta-Rite SR200NA	Copper-nickel	200,000	Digital	2” threaded unions	Check Price
Best for Above-Ground Pools	6. Raypak Spa Heater	Copper-nickel	105,000	Analog	2” threaded unions	Check Price
	7. Hayward H100ID1	Copper-nickel	100,000	Analog	2” threaded unions	Check Price

1. Raypak RAY-014941

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Reliable Construction

Made of the highest-quality copper-nickel fin tube heat exchangers, the unit will resist even the harshest applications such as low pH, high flow, or heavy use. Specially designed to provide you with highly efficient outcomes and many years of use, the copper-nickel construction is extremely resistant to bad and oscillating water chemistry thanks to the tough surface and massive fin tube. Besides, forget about corrosion, as the Raypak water heating system features the ultimate header design technology. This means it uses a polymer header, which makes it even more resistant. Polymer headers avoid rust from damaging the pool surface pleasing you with long-lasting performance and hassle-free swimming experiences.

Performance

With 406,000 BTU heating element, the Raypak unit will heat your basin with no effort. It maintains thermal efficiency above 83% and also keeps the water temperature above 105‎°F, so it’s an efficient choice for every pool owner. As it was specially designed for outdoor applications, it will please you with a premium low profile design, ideal for every swimming pool. What’s great about it is that it protects itself from damaging stuff like falling leaves, debris, wind, rain, snow, and many other more. You’ll enjoy constant heating performance regardless of all, especially harsh weather conditions.

Digital Controls

Together with all the characteristics mentioned above, you’ll get even more convenience with the following ones:

• Temperature Control – Set the temperature easily with the built-in thermostat by just pressing the up and down control button.
• Effortless Troubleshooting – The on-board diagnostic controls let you know what’s going with the unit anytime. In case of inconveniences, the digital display will immediately identify the problem in the control circuit.
• Remote Compatible – As it’s compatible with most remote systems, any 2-wire or 3-wire remote can easily connect to the Raypak unit.

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2. Pentair 460734

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If you are looking for an eco-friendly unit, Pentain might be exactly what you need. Heating your pool or spa has never been easier, as it’s able to heat fast, getting you rid of the long waits. The improved design features a tough, rust-resistant exterior so that it can please you with endurance over time. Even so, it is compact enough to install it even in the tightest places. As well as, it’s able to resist all weather conditions, with no inconveniences. Offering 300,000 BTU power, it’s an easy-to-operate heating system, with push buttons, and digital controls. With this model, you’ll enjoy user-friendly indicator lights that make operation and monitoring a breeze. The LCD and diagnostics include front-facing error messages and icons, so it will immediately detect the problem. MasterTemp is certified for low NOx emissions, surpassing the industry standards. It’s also an energy-efficient unit, so you don’t have to worry about high costs.

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3. Raypak 266,000 Pool Heater

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This is another reliable item that can heat your spa or pool quickly and efficiently, with no noise. This is because of the 266,000 BTU high heat element, which is powerful enough to offer the right temperature. With this model, you don’t have to worry about anything as it’s designed with simple controls for user-friendly operation. The thermostat can be easily controlled the way you need, as you just have to set it and let it do its job. You’ll also get a self-diagnostic system, which is very helpful since it’s able to detect various issues quickly. As well as, it can report how long it has run and how many times it has fired. Regarding the design, it’s able to resist wind, rain, snow, but also debris. Both the cabinet and internal parts are rust and corrosion-resistant, while the copper fine tubes allow for peak heat performance.

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4. Hayward H250FDN

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Manufactured from cupro-nickel, it will lead to many years of performance, delivering constant heat to your basin. It uses 250,000 BTU heating power, being able to properly perform in the larger pools, as well. The machine will please you with a premium hydraulic system that protects against corrosion and saves energy, too. Hence, the heating efficiency will increase, without leading to further harmful effects. We’re also speaking of a forced draft combustion system that moves air via a combustion chamber with an exact flow rate to eliminate all the obstacles that won’t allow for proper heating performance. Hayward has been designed for ease-of-use and handiness, this is why it’s equipped with a user-friendly digital panel, where you can find all the settings for appropriate application. Hence, there’s the temperature readout, together with the diagnostics and electronic lock-out. With this LED, you won’t have to worry about inaccurate heating outcomes. The low NOx emissions make it an environmentally-safe machine, which is even better.

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5. Sta-Rite SR200NA

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Sta-Rite is the lightest heating unit in its class, featuring a compact design that can work great for retro-fit installation. Besides, it’s rated first in its class for the highest energy efficiency, as it has low operating costs. With 200,000 BTU heating element, the unit will heat pools and spas in no time. Some of the most important features to consider when shopping for it are the weather-proof frame, easy controls, and eco-friendly design. Thus, it makes the best deal for a heating unit that can perform no matter the weather conditions, be it windy or rainy. The effortless operation is really helpful, as it doesn’t require too much time to make it work. Hence, with this model, you’ll get a LED with dual thermostat controls, 6-position control panel, and PVC union connections. The self-troubleshooting system is another of the highly impressive features it comes with, as well as the low NOx emissions certification.

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6. Raypak Spa Heater

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Specially designed for above ground pools, smaller in-ground pools, and spas, the Raypak unit uses 105,000 BTU of heating power. It has a compact, robust, and reliable construction, able to withstand rough weather conditions but also to offer handiness during usage. It comes with a standard 120V power cord that can be easily converted to 220V for added power. The system is very easy to operate as it features a simple analog thermostat for accurate temperature settings. More to be mentioned, an opening gas valve makes lighting the pilot a breeze. Regarding the design details, it features a thick-walled copper exchanger with polymer headers, which is also rust and corrosion-resistant for more convenience over time. At the same time, the exchanger features a built-in valve meant to balance the flow. The unit is also warranted for 1-year in case of potential inconveniences.

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7. Hayward H100ID1

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Using induced draft technology, the Hayward heating system is able to assure premium heating and all-weather performance for areas measuring less than 450 square feet. The unit uses 100,000 BTU of heating power, which is ideal for heating smaller pools and spas. Installation is a breeze, as it features direct spark ignition for automatic control and a simple plug-in 120V electric cord. Even so, it isn’t recommended to install it at an elevation greater than 2,000 feet above sea-level. Concerning design elements, we’re talking about a compact and lightweight unit that weighs only 74.5 pounds and that can be easily mounted. The design is simple and it doesn’t require too much space for proper operation. More to be mentioned, the cabinet’s surface stays cool-to-the-touch in order to avoid potential accidents.

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Gas vs. Electric Pool Heater

Both gas and electric heat sources are used for heating pools. Even so, some people go for gas, while others choose the electric heating sources. Surely, each option is powered by specific reasons, so each of them comes with both advantages and downsides. If you haven’t yet decided which is the best choice for your pool, we’re here to help you out. Let’s see how both of them work and what’s required to properly install them.

Gas

When using a gas heating source, the water through the heater is pumped, while gas is used to warm the water before it’s charged back into the pool. This type is extremely common in the industry and one of the main reasons is the cost-effectiveness it offers. Even so, it’s also high-performance and efficient, offering proper heating capacity. They are also very easy to install, which is another consideration homeowners look at. However, they represent a good choice especially for smaller pools for shorter periods. Hence, this is why they are more common in warmer climates, where heating the water is not as compulsory as when speaking of colder regions.

Electric

On the other hand, the electric sources are heat pumps that heat the water by running it through a pump that eliminates the outside air and brings the heat into the water by the cooling cycle. Then, the warm water is driven back into the pool to reach the desired temperature. In this case, we’re speaking of less energy used and more effective application compared to the gas heating system. Otherwise, if you have a larger pool, an electric heater will do its job properly, as the heating power is increased. Thus, those who live in colder climates could reliably go for the electric choice.

 

After analyzing their characteristics, together with similarities and differences, determining which one is the winner is now easier. Hence, it’s all based on your needs but also on the climate type. Even more, it’s also important to consider the placement and size of the pool to make sure you make the correct decision.

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Pool Heater Sizing – What Size Do I Need?

The biggest concern when it comes to choosing a pool heater is definitely its size. The size is extremely important as it’s related to heating efficiency. The smaller it is, the lowest performance it will bring. Small units operate slower, thus they will take longer to properly heat the water. On the other hand, a larger machine delivers a higher number of BTU, offering greater heating performance, but also faster heating. This is why, before purchasing a heater, you have to make sure you’ve chosen the proper dimensions that will also suit the pool’s needs. If you still have doubts, take a closer look at the steps you should consider before making the final choice.

1. Gas Heaters – Usually used for residential basins and large spas, this type has the highest BTU rating, ranging from 100,000 BTU to 500,000 BTU. Hence, it’s recommended to go for a powerful machine with a great amount of BTU so that it can quickly heat the pool and provide peak performance. If the pool’s surface is approximately 1000-1200 square feet, then you should go for a high-capacity heater.
2. Electric Pumps – With an electric pump, the BTU number ranges from 50,000 to 150,000. It produces lower amounts of heat, but they are quieter, and safer to operate. Thus, if you have a smaller pool, it’s recommended to use a lower-BTU powered machine.
3. Solar Heaters – When it comes to solar power, things are easier. For instance, for a 600-square feet basin, it’s recommended to have at least 300 square feet of solar panel area. Nevertheless, it depends on the amount of sunlight the panel gets. To bring the best outcomes, a solar system needs up to 10 hours of sun exposure per day.

Pool’s Surface	Heater’s Size
Up to 300 sq. ft.	100,000 – 200,000 BTU
Up to 500 sq. ft.	200,000 – 300,000 BTU
Up to 800 sq. ft.	300,000 – 400,000 BTU
Up to 1200 sq. ft.	400,000 BTU

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Conclusion

Even if you own a small above-ground pool or a large in-ground pool, heating is compulsory if you want to enjoy it regardless of the season. All of the products above were specially picked for your needs and requirements, as there’s a various range with both high-end and less pricey models. Nevertheless, let’s check again the top heaters to consider:

Best Overall : Raypak RAY-014941
Resistant to the harshest applications, the Raypack heater will do its job quickly and effectively. It uses a 406,000 BTU heating element, offering peak performance despite the pool type. Due to the powerful heating ability, it maintains the pool’s thermal efficiency above 83%. Additionally, it’s an easy-to-use unit with digital controls that make operation a breeze.

Our Choice : Pentair 460734
Pentair is another popular company when it comes to pool heaters, so we have chosen this one as a runner-up in our ranking. This is because of its high heating power, sturdy design, and long-term performance. It’s powered by 300,000 BTU, so you’ll be provided with fast heating. More than this, it’s an energy-efficient machine, as well as it’s certified for low NOx emissions.

Best for In-Ground Pools : Hayward H250FDN
Using 250,000 BTU, it’s a powerful heater suitable for any in-ground pool. The main convenience to take into consideration is the high-performance hydraulic system that ensures protection against rust and corrosion, as well as the energy saving design. It has been designed with an intuitive digital panel, where you can adjust settings as desired, and choose the proper temperature. Plus, you’ll get low NOx emissions compared to other heaters.

Best for Above-Ground Pools : Raypak Spa Heater
Suitable for above-ground pools, as well as many other types of pools, Raypak is another reliable option to take into consideration for heating your basin. It provides 105,000 BTU and can be easily installed due to the versatile design. Operation is a breeze, as well, so it doesn’t require too much time to make it work.

Best Natural Gas Pool Heater for Cold Climates : Raypak 266,000 Pool Heater
It’s one of the top products evaluated by our team of reviewers, which is the perfect acquisition if you’re living in a cold climate. We’re speaking of a copper-nickel heater that delivers 266,000 BTU for fast pool heating. Ideal for various types of spas and basins, it operates quietly so you won’t even hear it working. Design details are worth considering, as well, as it’s a rust-proof unit that ensures many years of use.