8 Best Pool Heaters in 2025: Save Up to 40% on Energy Bills

It’s November, the pool looks perfect – but the water feels like ice. If you wish to swim year-round without shocking your wallet, the right pool heater can cut energy bills by up to 40%. Let’s look at the eight best heaters in 2025 and which one fits your pool best.

You've invested thousands in your backyard oasis, but without proper heating, those perfect swimming days get cut short when temperatures drop. Gas heaters warm pools fast—great for chilly mornings or cooler states—but they can also drive your energy bills up quickly.

The good news? Today's pool heaters aren't the energy-guzzling monsters of yesteryear. Modern pool heaters move water more efficiently, so your pump doesn’t have to work as long. That simple design improvement can cut energy usage by of up to 18% compared to older, less efficient models.

When you're shopping for the best pool heater in 2025, don't just look at that sticker price. Smart pool owners focus on long-term energy efficiency too. Take Pentair MasterTemp heaters—they claim to be the most efficient in their class and actually maintain that efficiency as they age. Or consider Raypak digital heaters, built tough enough to handle whatever weather your area throws at them while delivering efficiency, convenience, and reliability.

Whether you need an inground pool heater or you're set on gas heating specifically, this guide breaks down the top 8 options for 2025. We'll cover performance, durability, and those all-important energy savings that keep your utility bills from spiking every time you want to extend your swimming season. 

The Raypak Digital Cupro-Nickel is built for pool owners who want top-tier durability and smart control. IHeater t earned the #1 spot from Forbes in 2023 for a reason — it’s powerful, easy to use, and engineered to handle tough Arizona water conditions.

Raypak heater features

Here's what sets this heater apart from the pack: a microprocessor-based control system that actually makes sense. No more squinting at cryptic error codes wondering what your heater is trying to tell you. The Raypak Digital shows your target temperature in plain English on its LED screen. When it's heating, you'll know. When it hits your temperature, you'll know that too.
The built-in diagnostics deserve special mention. These aren't just blinking lights—they're actual communication tools that help both you and your service tech figure out what's happening. Plus, this heater plays nice with most major pool control systems, so you won't need to rip out your existing automation setup.

But the real star of the show? That cupro-nickel fin tube heat exchanger. While other manufacturers stick with standard copper that can't handle aggressive water chemistry, Raypak went with the premium material. Your investment stays protected, and performance stays consistent.

Raypak energy efficiency

The automatic bypass system handles flow rates up to 125 gallons per minute while keeping energy costs in check. The Unitherm Governor technology prevents condensation issues when you're trying to heat up quickly on those cooler days.

Let's be honest—this isn't the cheapest heater on the market. But the energy efficiency pays you back over time through lower utility bills. Sometimes spending more upfront means spending less every month after that.

Raypak installation and durability

Built tough from day one. The cabinet uses galvanized metal with powder coating that won't rust and stain your equipment pad. That low-profile design with the specialized pagoda top? It keeps working even when weather gets nasty.

Installation matters more than most people realize. This heater needs a level, non-combustible surface like concrete, and you'll want to remove all packaging before firing it up. Poor installation can cut years off a heater's life, while proper setup gets you 7-10 years from gas models and 10-15 years from electric versions.

Keep it at least 1500mm from windows or ventilation openings, with clear space above. These aren't suggestions—they're requirements for getting the most from your investment.

For Phoenix Valley pool owners, you can find these premium Raypak heaters at our Shasta Pools Supply locations in Phoenix, Mesa, and Surprise. Our team knows these units inside and out, so you'll get the right installation advice to make your investment last. 

Looking for energy savings without sacrificing heating power? The Hayward Universal H-Series delivers exactly what most pool owners need—reliable performance that doesn't break the bank on monthly utility bills.

This versatile heater works with virtually any pool setup, whether you're replacing an old unit or building from scratch. That's the beauty of calling it "Universal"—it actually lives up to the name.

Hayward heater highlights

The H-Series comes in four BTU ratings: 150K, 200K, 250K, and 400K, covering pools from 450 square feet up to 1,400 square feet. But here's what really matters: that industry-leading hydraulic design we mentioned earlier? Hayward pioneered it, and their version can slash your circulation pump run time, saving up to 18% on energy costs compared to older models.

You'll appreciate the straightforward LED control panel with digital temperature readout—no cryptic codes to decipher. The built-in diagnostics constantly monitor performance, so you'll know if something's off before it becomes a bigger problem.

The forced draft system is where Hayward shows their engineering expertise. It moves air through the combustion chamber at precisely the right flow rate, which means weather conditions won't mess with your heating performance. No need for those tall, unsightly wind stacks either.

Installation flexibility? The universal junction box mounts on either the left or right side. Small detail, but it makes a difference when you're working with tight equipment pad spaces.

Hayward corrosion resistance

Here's something that sets Hayward apart from the competition: while other manufacturers charge hundreds extra for cupro-nickel heat exchangers, Hayward includes them as standard equipment in all their gas heaters.

Why does this matter? That copper-nickel alloy resists both corrosion and erosion far better than standard copper. If your pool has salt water or you struggle with water chemistry balance, this feature alone can extend your heater's life by years.

The "Totally Managed" water flow system ensures equal water velocity through all tubes, which means faster heating. Their patented header bypass design optimizes efficiency while protecting the heat exchanger. These features make the H-Series particularly smart for salt water pools, where corrosion can destroy standard units.

Bottom line: you get consistent performance even when water chemistry isn't perfect. And let's be honest—whose pool chemistry is perfect all the time?

Hayward low NOx compliance

Environmental regulations getting stricter in your area? The Universal H-Series meets low NOx emissions standards across the board. These units actually exceed South Coast Air Quality Management District requirements (SCAQMD Rule 1146.2), so you're covered even in California's strict air quality zones.

The forced draft combustion system controls the air-fuel mixture precisely, improving efficiency while cutting harmful emissions. You get better performance and cleaner operation—a win-win situation.
Electrical flexibility adds another practical advantage. The heater handles either 110/120V or 220/240V wiring, so it adapts to whatever electrical setup you already have. While Hayward recommends professional installation to maintain warranty coverage, this flexibility makes installation straightforward for most configurations.

For Phoenix Valley residents, these reliable Hayward Universal H-Series heaters are available through Shasta Pools Supply locations in Phoenix, Mesa, and Surprise, where our expert staff can help you select the right model for your specific pool requirements. 

Got a pool that faces tough conditions? The Pentair MasterTemp HD doesn't mess around when it comes to durability.

This isn't your standard pool heater. The MasterTemp HD is built specifically for pool owners dealing with harsh water chemistry, salt systems, or heavy usage patterns that would make lesser heaters cry uncle.

MasterTemp HD key features

The "Heavy Duty" name isn't just marketing fluff. This heater earns its stripes with a cupro-nickel heat exchanger that laughs in the face of low pH, high flow rates, and punishing usage patterns. While standard heaters start breaking down under these conditions, the HD keeps chugging along.
Here's what makes the HD different:

• Rotating digital display that stays readable no matter how your installer positions it
• Pre-mixed air and gas system that heats your pool faster than you'd expect
• Composite exterior that won't rust, crack, or fade even when Mother Nature gets nasty
• Low NOx emissions that actually exceed current environmental standards

Spot an HD model instantly by its bronze header manifold—that's the shiny bronze piece where standard MasterTemps have black. This isn't just for looks. The bronze construction gives you better durability and easier access when service time rolls around. Plus, the HD gets its own specialized water pressure switch designed specifically for that bronze header system.

MasterTemp HD energy savings

Let's be honest about efficiency. The MasterTemp HD delivers 82% thermal efficiency, which means about 82 cents of every gas dollar actually heats your pool water. That's slightly lower than the standard MasterTemp's 84%, but here's the thing—you're trading a tiny efficiency difference for massive durability gains.

Heat-up times? Still impressive. The 400K BTU HD model cranks a 20,000-gallon pool up by 10°F in roughly 5 hours. You're not sacrificing performance for toughness.

If your current heater is over five years old, the MasterTemp HD could actually pay for itself through energy savings. The optimized fuel-air mixture doesn't just save money—it heats faster too.

MasterTemp HD vs standard model

The difference between standard and HD models comes down to three key parts: heat exchanger, manifold, and water pressure switch. Standard MasterTemp uses copper; HD uses cupro-nickel specifically chosen to handle brutal water chemistry.

Watch out for retailers who claim standard models have cupro-nickel heat exchangers—they don't. Always verify model numbers on Pentair's website to avoid confusion.

Both models share the same compact size (21"L x 23"W x 29"H) and features like digital controls and automation compatibility. But the HD model shines when you're dealing with salt water, pH swings, or year-round heavy use.

When do you need the HD over standard? Salt water pools, commercial applications, or if your water chemistry tends to be aggressive. For normal residential pools with balanced water, the standard MasterTemp handles the job just fine.

For Phoenix Valley residents, these professional-grade Pentair MasterTemp HD heaters are available through Shasta Pools Supply locations in Phoenix, Mesa, and Surprise, where our staff can help you decide if HD is worth the investment for your specific situation. 

Got a tight equipment pad that makes you feel like you're playing pool equipment Tetris? The Jandy JXi Gas Heater solves that space problem without sacrificing the performance you need.

This heater flips the script on what pool owners should expect from modern heating technology. You get serious efficiency packed into a footprint that actually fits where you need it.

JXi compact design

The JXi's ultra-compact 2'x2' footprint gives you installation options even in the most cramped equipment areas. We're talking about a heater that's 38% lighter and has a 28% smaller footprint compared to major competitors. At under 126 pounds unpackaged, your installer won't need a small army to move it into position.

Here's what you're working with:

• Width: 22.9"
• Height: 26.5"
• Depth: 22.1"

For retrofit jobs where equipment pad real estate is precious, this compact design makes the difference between possible and impossible. Your service tech will thank you too—no more wrestling with oversized units in tight spaces.

JXi thermal efficiency

Small size doesn't mean weak performance. The JXi delivers an impressive 84% thermal efficiency rating that beats Department of Energy requirements. The low-NOx design keeps you compliant with environmental standards while transferring heat effectively.

But here's where it gets interesting: VersaFlo Integrated Bypass technology automatically diverts water flow when heating isn't needed. This smart feature saves up to 20% in additional energy costs. Think about it—pool heaters typically run only 3.5% of your annual pump runtime, which means the heat exchanger gets bypassed 96.5% of the time.

Pair this with a variable-speed pump, and you could save up to $350 per year in electricity costs by running at lower speeds when the heater is bypassed.

JXi installation benefits

Installation flexibility goes way beyond the compact size. The 180° rotatable top eliminates header rotation headaches, giving installers unprecedented flexibility. The electrical panel flips up for easy setup and service access.

Replacing an old MasterTemp or Max-E Therm? The JXi excels as a retrofit option with plumbing flexibility that allows quick swaps without plumbing modifications. No major equipment pad surgery required.
The 3-port header simplifies plumbing connections, while the extended gas line to the cabinet exterior makes hookup to existing gas lines straightforward. These aren't accident—Jandy designed this heater with real-world installation challenges in mind.

Smart pool owners will appreciate the automation compatibility with AquaLink systems and iAquaLink control, letting you manage your heater from anywhere with internet access. Remote control heating puts the JXi squarely in the running for best pool heaters of 2025.

For Phoenix Valley residents looking for this space-saving solution, the Jandy JXi Gas Heater is available at Shasta Pools Supply locations in Phoenix, Mesa, and Surprise. Our staff can help you determine if this compact powerhouse fits your specific setup. 

Here's something most pool equipment salespeople won't tell you: the lightest heater isn't always the weakest. The Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm proves this point perfectly—it's the lightest heater in its class while delivering the kind of robust performance that keeps your pool perfectly heated season after season.

Sta-Rite smart features

Forget those confusing control panels that require an engineering degree to understand. The Max-E-Therm keeps things simple with a six-position control panel mounted right on top where you can actually reach it. The LED temperature readout tells you exactly what's happening—no cryptic codes or guessing games.

What really sets this heater apart? Dual thermostat controls that let you dial in temperatures anywhere between 65 and 104 degrees. That's precise control, not the "close enough" approach you get with basic models.

Safety isn't an afterthought here. The built-in temperature safety lockout prevents those "oops" moments that could damage your equipment. The large digital display doesn't just show pretty numbers—it actually helps you troubleshoot problems before they become expensive repair calls.

You get two ways to run this heater:

• Standard setting: Heats to your target temperature, then shuts off like a well-behaved appliance
• Comfort setting: Kicks on about twice per hour to maintain that perfect temperature

With 120 gallons per minute of water circulation capacity, expect your pool temperature to climb 2 to 4 degrees every hour, depending on your pool size.

Sta-Rite automation compatibility

Sure, you can run the Max-E-Therm as a standalone unit. But if you're already invested in pool automation (or thinking about it), this heater plays well with modern control systems.

The sizing lineup covers just about every residential pool scenario:

• SR200LP: 200,000 BTU output (perfect for pools up to 400 sq. ft./14,000 gallons)
• SR333LP: 333,000 BTU output (handles pools up to 700 sq. ft./25,000 gallons)
• SR400LP: 400,000 BTU output (tackles large pools up to 1,200 sq. ft./80,000 gallons)

Sta-Rite energy-saving bypass

Here's where the Max-E-Therm gets interesting. That 84% efficiency rating? It's not just marketing fluff—it actually ranks first in its class. Your utility bills will thank you.

The real magic happens with the manifold by-pass valve. This isn't just another component—it's the traffic controller for your water flow, making sure only the right amount passes through the heat exchanger. No wasted energy heating water that doesn't need it. No pressure drops that make your system work harder than necessary.

But here's the money-saving feature: the Smart Heater Bypass valve control. When your pool doesn't need heating, it diverts water flow completely, saving up to 35% on yearly operational costs. Pair this with a variable speed pump, and you're looking at reduced pump power consumption plus extended heater life.

The construction tells you this heater was built to last. Pentair's exclusive Dura-Glas material creates a sleek, matte-black exterior that handles heat and weather without breaking a sweat. No rust stains on your equipment pad—this housing stays looking good year after year.

For Phoenix Valley residents, these efficient Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm heaters are available at Shasta Pools Supply locations in Phoenix, Mesa, and Surprise, where our staff can help you pick the right model for your specific pool setup. 

Want to cut your pool heating costs in half without sacrificing comfort? The Hayward HeatPro Heat Pump series might be exactly what you're looking for—especially if you live somewhere with mild winters.

HeatPro energy efficiency

Here's what makes pool owners love their HeatPro units: they can slash heating costs by 50% to 70% compared to gas heaters. The secret lies in the coefficient of performance (COP) rating of up to 5.7, which means you get 5.7 units of heat for every unit of electricity you pay for. The HeatPro VS models push this even further with part load COP ratings over 15.0.

How does this translate to your monthly bills? The innovative microchannel heat exchanger technology makes heat transfer so efficient that you can maintain perfect water temperature without those shocking utility bills. This means:

• Your heating season extends without breaking the bank
• Monthly operating costs stay predictable and low
• You get faster heating times than older heat pump technology
• Your carbon footprint shrinks significantly

HeatPro refrigerant and eco-friendliness

If you're environmentally conscious, you'll appreciate that the HeatPro uses R410A refrigerant—the kind that doesn't emit harmful greenhouse gases. Even better, the microchannel technology requires less refrigerant overall, making the environmental impact even smaller.

The corrosion protection is equally impressive:

• Ultra Gold corrosion-resistant evaporator fin (you won't find this elsewhere)
• Titanium heat exchanger that laughs at unbalanced water chemistry
• Trivalent Chromium Process coating that handles harsh weather like a champ

HeatPro ideal climate use

Now, let's be honest about when heat pumps make the most sense. The standard HeatPro models work beautifully in milder climates. But if you live somewhere with harsh winters, the advanced models with patent-pending defrost algorithms can still deliver solid heating even when air temperatures drop below 50°F.

The HeatPro MCHX Heat+Chill models offer something really unique—they heat and cool your pool. These units can chill water down to 40°F, perfect for cold plunge therapy or those brutal summer days when your pool feels like a warm bath.

For long-term value, HeatPro units are built to last with corrosion-resistant bodies and UV-resistant exteriors that stand up to whatever weather you throw at them. When you factor in the energy savings over 10-15 years, these units often pay for themselves several times over.

For Phoenix Valley residents, these energy-efficient Hayward HeatPro Heat Pumps are available at Shasta Pools Supply locations in Phoenix, Mesa, and Surprise, with expert staff ready to help you select the right model for your specific requirements. 

Want to slash your pool heating costs while doing right by the environment? The Pentair UltraTemp Heat Pump takes a completely different approach to pool heating, and for the right conditions, it's one of the most economical solutions you'll find.

UltraTemp heat pump features

The UltraTemp's 100% titanium heat exchanger isn't just marketing fluff—it's backed by a lifetime warranty. That's Pentair putting their money where their mouth is on corrosion resistance. The LCD control board speaks plain English instead of cryptic error codes, so you'll actually understand what your heater is telling you.

Here's where the UltraTemp gets really smart: its AutoSet capability monitors your water temperature and automatically kicks the circulation pump on and off as needed. Your time clock becomes irrelevant because the heater takes over temperature control completely. No more guessing, no more manual adjustments.

Cold snaps won't shut down your heating either. The automatic defrost feature senses when refrigerant temperatures drop and prevents the unit from freezing up, keeping it operational when other heat pumps might quit. If you've got a pool/spa combo, dual thermostats give you precise control for each without wasting energy overheating either one.

UltraTemp quiet operation

Nobody wants their pool heater sounding like a jet engine. The UltraTemp uses sound-dampening construction to keep noise levels reasonable. The UltraTemp120Q takes this even further with composite side panels, raised construction, and a redesigned fan that creates an ultra-quiet operation. Your neighbors will thank you.

UltraTemp for mild climates

Let's be honest about heat pump limitations: they work best when ambient temperatures stay above 45°F. But when conditions are right, the UltraTemp can save you up to 80% compared to gas heaters.

The sweet spot is 80°F air temperature, 80% humidity, and 80°F water temperature—under those ideal conditions, this thing purrs along at maximum efficiency. As conditions change, so does performance, but it still beats traditional heating methods on operating costs.

For Phoenix Valley residents, the Pentair UltraTemp Heat Pump is available at Shasta Pools Supply locations in Phoenix, Mesa, and Surprise, where our staff can help you determine if a heat pump makes sense for your specific situation. 

Want to heat your pool without the guilt trip about your carbon footprint? Aquacomfort heat pumps deliver serious temperature control while keeping both your conscience and your wallet happy.

Aquacomfort smart defrost

Here's where Aquacomfort gets clever about cold weather. The smart defrost technology kicks in automatically when temperatures drop below 40°F, stopping frost from building up on the evaporator coil. When you see "DEF" or "FS" on the display, the unit is defrosting itself—the compressor pauses while the fan keeps running. This means your heat pump keeps working even when other systems throw in the towel during chilly months.

Aquacomfort energy savings

Let's talk numbers, because they're pretty impressive. These units cost up to 80% less to operate than propane heaters and about 70% less than natural gas. Even better? Aquacomfort delivers 30-40% more heat than similar-sized competitors during those crucial shoulder seasons—the first and last 30 days when you're trying to extend your swimming time.

Unlike gas heaters that lose efficiency as they age, your Aquacomfort maintains its performance year after year. That means your savings actually get better over time while other heaters get more expensive to run.

Aquacomfort for eco-conscious users

If you care about the environment, this is where Aquacomfort shines. Zero harmful emissions. The system uses ozone-friendly R-410A refrigerant and can slash your carbon footprint by nearly 100%. The HeatCOOL models even let you both heat and cool your pool, so you can maintain perfect water temperature no matter what Mother Nature throws at you.

For Phoenix Valley residents, these eco-friendly Aquacomfort heat pumps are available at Shasta Pools Supply locations in Phoenix, Mesa, and Surprise. 

Need to compare your options side-by-side? Here's how these eight pool heaters stack up across the features that matter most for your decision.

This table shows you the essential differences at a glance. Gas heaters typically offer faster heating but higher operating costs, while heat pumps provide the best long-term savings if you live in milder climates. Notice how most manufacturers now include premium features like cupro-nickel heat exchangers as standard equipment—something that used to cost extra.

You've made it through eight solid pool heater options, each with its own strengths depending on what matters most to you. Gas heaters like the Raypak Digital and Pentair MasterTemp HD heat fast when you need it now. Heat pumps like the Hayward HeatPro and Aquacomfort play the long game with energy savings that can hit 80% compared to gas heating.

Here's what stood out across all these models: energy efficiency isn't just a nice-to-have anymore—it's built into the DNA of modern pool heaters. The Jandy JXi saves you 20% with its VersaFlo technology. The Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm cuts operational costs by 35% through smart bypass features. Cupro-nickel heat exchangers, once expensive upgrades, now come standard on quality units.

Will a modern pool heater pay for itself? Most high-efficiency models recover their purchase cost through energy savings within just a few seasons. That's assuming regular use, of course. Smart features like automatic temperature control and remote management make it easier to maintain your ideal temperature without constant fiddling.

At Shasta Pools Supply, we've been helping Arizona pool owners since 1966—long enough to see heating technology evolve from basic gas burners to today's smart, efficient systems. Our Phoenix, Mesa, and Surprise locations stock all these top performers because we know they deliver real results for our customers.

Your swimming season doesn't have to end when October rolls around. The right heater extends those perfect pool days well into the cooler months while keeping your energy bills reasonable. Visit one of our locations where our staff can help you match the perfect heating solution to your specific pool and budget. After all, you didn't invest in that beautiful pool just to watch it sit cold and unused half the year.

Key Takeaways

Modern pool heaters in 2025 combine advanced technology with impressive energy efficiency to deliver substantial cost savings while extending your swimming season.

• Energy savings up to 80%: Heat pumps like Hayward HeatPro and Aquacomfort can reduce operating costs by 50-80% compared to traditional gas heating methods.
• Smart bypass technology saves 20-35%: Advanced features like Jandy JXi's VersaFlo and Sta-Rite's Smart Heater Bypass automatically optimize water flow when heating isn't needed.
• Cupro-nickel heat exchangers are now standard: Premium materials that resist corrosion and extend heater lifespan are included in top models without extra cost.
• Compact designs maximize installation flexibility: Modern heaters like the Jandy JXi offer 38% smaller footprints while maintaining full performance capabilities.
• Heat pumps excel in mild climates: For consistent temperatures above 45°F, heat pumps provide the most economical long-term heating solution with minimal environmental impact.

The right pool heater investment can pay for itself through energy savings within just a few seasons, making year-round swimming both comfortable and cost-effective. 

Universal H-Series https://hayward.com/universal-h-series-natural-gas-250-000-btu-low-nox-h250fdn.html

Digital Gas Pool Heater https://www.raypak.com/products/pool-and-spa/residential-pool-and-spa-heaters/digital-gas-pool-and-spa-heater/

Gas Pool Heaters https://www.pentair.com/content/dam/extranet/nam/pentair-pool/residential/heaters/gas-heaters-family/gas-pool-heaters-family-brochure.pdf