When buying solar pool heaters, people often give precedence to features like square footage, mounting type, water pressure limit, and the type of pool the solar pool heater is suitable for. But, in the end, the best solar pool heaters tip above the rest by offering superior temperature rise in all conditions.
Best Solar Pool Heaters at a Glance
- Smart Pool S601 Pool Solar Heaters – Best Overall Solar Pool Heater
- SunHeater Aboveground Solar Heating System – Highest Pool Water Temperature Raise
- SmartPool s240U Solar Heating System – For In,- and Aboveground Pools
- Fafco Solar Bear – Best Heating System for Above-Ground Pools
- SunQuest Solar Swimming Pool Heater – With Roof Kit Diverter
- SunHeater Solar Pool Heating System – Highest Water Pressure Limit
- Intex Solar Heater – Mat for Above Ground Swimming Pool
- GAME 72000-BB – Curved Design
- SolarPoolSupply – Highest Performing Design
For effective heating, the square footage of a solar pool heater must be sufficient to heat your swimming pool. If the surface area of your pool water heater falls below what your pool needs, the pool temperature may never get to the level you expect.
The solar panels of solar pool heaters are designed to provide a specific rise in temperature. So, if you use the appropriate size for your pool, the temperature rise will ultimately determine heating efficiency. The temperature rise of the pool solar panels is particularly vital in low sunlight and low average temperatures.
Solar pool heaters are available in various mounting types, and each one of these mounting types offers different levels of efficiency. Of the many mounting options you will come across for solar pool heaters, 3 are more common than the rest. These 3 are flat mounting, racking system mounting, and rooftop mounting. Of these 3, the rooftop mounting offers the highest heating efficiency while the flat mounting is less energy efficient than the other two.
Solar heating systems are designed to resist water pressure up to a certain level. If the pressure of the water from your pool pump exceeds the water pressure limit of your solar pool heater, the solar heater may get damaged. And if this happens, the warranty may become invalid.
In any case, the water pressure from your pool pump exceeds the water pressure limit. You may have to get a bypass valve for better pressure control. But if your solar heating system already has a substantially high water pressure limit, you may not have to get a bypass valve.
Some solar pool heaters are built for in-ground pools, while some are built for above-ground pools. Then, in some cases, you will come across those that are suitable for both in-ground pools and ab0ve-ground pools. For the best heating, you should opt for a solar heating system that suits the structure of your pool.
Top Solar Pool Heaters Reviews
1. SmartPool S601 Pool Solar Heaters
Combining high square footage, an excellent temperature rise, flexible mounting types, and a high water pressure limit, the SmartPool S601 Pool Solar Heaters takes the top spot on our best solar pool heaters review.
This solar heating system for in-ground pools comes with a solar panel measuring 4′ x 20′, and it offers a decent temperature rise when used correctly.
Our Review
The S601 SmartPool Solar Heaters offer 80 square feet of solar panels – the highest square footage of any product on the list. Only the SunHeater Aboveground, this product, and the Fafco match this square footage.
With a square footage of 80 sq. ft., this solar pool heater can serve as a swimming pool with a surface area of up to 160 sq. ft.
Apart from its top-notch square footage, it offers a temperature rise of around 6 to 10℉ when properly sized and installed. Interestingly, in some cases, the pool temperature rise can go as high as 15℉.
While the temperature rise is the highest on the list, the SunHeater Aboveground and the SunHeater S120U offer similar temperature rises.
The polypropylene solar collector supports flexible mounting types. You can lay it flat, use it on the roof, or use it on a racking system. However, you have to get the installation kit separately.
This solar heater can withstand pressure from an existing pool pump with a capacity of up to 1.5 hp. Only the SunHeater S120U can withstand higher water pressure from a pool pump.
Then while this solar water heater was made for in-ground pools, it may also be used on an above-ground pool. Of course, the heating efficiency would be less.
Besides the solar pool heater panels, the manufacturer offers two value-added products. The first is a liquid heat shield, which locks heat inside the solar collectors, reduces pool water evaporation, and keeps the solar pool heater warm for longer periods.
The second value-added product is a reel system, which helps to unfurl and pack the solar heater rapidly.
We do not doubt that this solar heating system is an excellent product. But one drawback we noticed is the absence of the installation kit in the solar pool heater pack. What this means is that you have to buy the installation kit separately. Alternatively, you may just lay the solar panel flat. But mounting your solar pool heater flat is not the best way to go.
Pros
- With a temperature rise of up 15℉, it offers the highest temperature rise in our review.
- No other solar pool heater on the list offers higher square footage. However, 3 other solar pool heaters match its coverage.
- The water pressure limit is one of the highest on the list. It is bettered only by the SunHeater S120U.
- Mounting comes with flexibility. You can lay it flat, use a racking system, or lay it on your roof.
Cons
- You have to get the installation kit separately.
- Lower heating efficiency when used in above-ground pools.
2. SunHeater Aboveground Pool Heating System
The SunHeater Aboveground Pool Heating System comes in as the second-best in our best pool heating system review.
Like the SmartPool S601, it is made of durable polypropylene. It also has high square footage, an appreciable water pressure limit, and a high-temperature rise. But it does not have flexible mounting options.
Our Review
The SunHeater Aboveground features 2 solar pool heater panels, and each one has a square footage of 40 sq. ft. Together, these solar panels provide square footage of 80 sq. ft. – the same as the S601 SmartPool Solar Heater.
With the coverage offered, it should be able to heat pools with 160 sq. ft.
This solar pool heater is good enough for diameters of up to 31 feet for oval swimming pools with dimensions of up to 18′ x 36′.
Like the S601, this solar pool heater can raise pool temperature by up to 15 ℉. But, of course, this also depends on the availability of solar power, the placement of the solar collectors, and the sizing.
You can install this solar heater to an existing pool pump with a 1-1.5 hp capacity. Going by this, only the S601 matches its water pressure limit, and only the Sunheater S120U surpasses it.
This solar heater is suited for above-ground pools. To this end, the manufacturer crafted it with flex hose adapters to ease the installation process.
Unlike the S601 SmartPool, it supports mounting a rack. The good news is, with a rack, you can adjust the tilt angle to the solar panels and maximize their exposure to solar energy.
However, since it comes from the same manufacturer as the S601 SmartPool, you can also get the reel system and the liquid heat shield.
Pros
- A potential temperature rise of up to 15℉ – the highest on the list alongside the S601.
- The square footage is the highest on the list, alongside the coverage of the S601.
- On our list, the water pressure limit of this solar heater is only bettered by the Sunheater S120U.
- When used for an above-ground pool, the installation is pretty simple.
Cons
- It only supports rack mounting.
- Unsuitable for in-ground pools.
3. SmartPool s240U SunHeater Pool Heating System
The SmartPool s240U SunHeater Solar Pool Heater is a universal solar pool heater. It offers high square footage, substantial temperature rise, and a decent water pressure limit. Plus, it is made of durable polypropylene.
Our Review
The s240U SunHeater comprises 2 panels, and each one measures 2 feet by 20 feet. So, in total, you get 80 square feet with this product. This coverage matches those of the S601, the Fafco, and the SunHeater Aboveground.
Going by the size of the solar panels, it can serve round swimming pools with diameters of up to 31 feet. For oval swimming pools, this solar heater would be effective for dimensions of up to 18 feet by 36 feet. Then for a rectangular swimming pool, the maximum dimension is 16 feet by 32 feet.
On average, it can raise pool temperature by 6 to 10 ℉. But as with the S601 and the SunHeater Aboveground, this temperature rise can be as high as 15℉ if the conditions are right. So, you get to extend your swimming season by a few weeks.
Universal solar pool heaters can be used for all types of pools, whether you have an above-ground pool or an inground swimming pool.
If your existing pool pump does not exceed 1 hp, you can use it with the s240U SunHeater. This makes it one of the solar pool heaters with the highest water pressure limit in our review. The Fafco matches this water pressure limit. However, the Smart Pool S601, the S120U, and the SunHeater Aboveground have higher water pressure limits.
The s240U SunHeater only uses the racking system for mounting. So, you do not get multiple options like the S601. Nonetheless, you get significant efficiency with the s240U SunHeater since you can adjust the angle of exposure of the solar panels.
Pros
- The temperature rise offered by this solar heater is pretty significant – as high as that of the S601.
- Substantial square footage – as much as what the S601 offers.
- Decent water pressure limit.
- Suitable for in,- and above-ground pools.
- It uses a racking system, which can be adjusted for increased exposure to solar energy.
Cons
- The solar panels may crack in lower temperatures.
4. Fafco Above-Ground Pool Solar Heater
The Fafco Above-ground Solar Pool Heater is a single-unit solar pool heater made from UV-stabilized polyethylene. It boasts substantial square footage, a significant temperature rise, and a decent water pressure limit.
Our Review
Like the SmartPool S601 and every other solar pool heath heating system is for above-ground pools and has 80 square feet.
The solar panel comes with 12 mounting caps, 6 mounting straps, 12 mounting bases, 20 rubber tube plugs, 1-½” barb connections, and 1 valve handle. With all of these fittings present in the pack, this solar pool heater is easy to install.
You can get your pool water temperature to rise by around 5 to 10℉. The S601, the SunHeater Aboveground, and the S120U offer higher temperature rise.
The manufacturer recommends exposing the solar collector to the south at an angle of 10-30 degrees for the most effective heating. To achieve this tilt, you need a rack. However, since it does not come with one, you have to construct it. Alternatively, you can install it on your roof.
Besides using a rack and mounting on the roof, you can also this solar pool heater flat. The product comes with ground spikes to facilitate flat installation on the ground. But while the flat mounting option is available, it is not the best option.
As long as you can get the installation and placement right, this pool heater will give you an extended swimming season.
Like the S240U, you can use the Fafco Heating System with a pool pump that has a capacity of up to 1 hp. Only the S601, the Sunheater S120U, and the SunHeater Aboveground can withstand higher water pressure.
The Fafco comes with an integral bypass valve that can help control the water pressure as needed.
Unlike the S240U, it is only suitable for above-ground pools.
Pros
- Joint highest square footage – alongside the S601, the SunHeater Aboveground, and the S240U.
- The temperature rise offered is pretty substantial – only bettered by SmartPool S601, the SunHeater Aboveground, and the Sunheater S120U.
- You get flexible mounting options.
- It has a decent water pressure limit.
- The solar panel features an integral bypass valve to help with pressure control.
Cons
- Not suitable for an above-ground pool.
5. SunQuest Solar Pool Heater
The SunQuest Solar Pool Heater comes with the max flow design, promoting water circulation while preventing backpressure. It offers fair square footage, a decent temperature rise, and it is easy to install.
Our Review
As the name says, the SunQuest comes as 2 solar panels measuring 2 feet by 12 feet. So, overall, both solar panels provide 48 sq. ft.
Of course, that square footage is not the highest in our review. But the only solar pool heaters with higher square footages are the S601, SunHeater Aboveground, the Fafco, and the S240U.
With a surface area of 48 square feet, you should be able to use this solar heating system on a swimming pool of 96 square feet. Of course, this depends on your region, the pool type, and some other factors.
Following exposure to sufficient solar energy and with proper installation, the SunQuest can raise the temperature of your pool by up to 10℉. While this is not the best temperature rise of any solar pool heaters on our list, it is pretty high.
But if you want a chance at a higher temperature rise, you may try out any of these other 3 solar pool heaters: the S601, the SunHeater Aboveground, and the Sunheater S120U.
Unlike the S601, you do not get multiple mounting options with the SunQuest. The product is suited for flat mounting. However, you may create a rack for it by yourself.
The SunQuest should be easy to install since various fittings aid the installation process. Such fittings are the connectors, which are compatible with 1-1/2″ & 1-1/4″ flexible hose. Even with the said fittings, you may find the installation process a bit tedious and complicated.
It comes with 2-inch OD headers. The upside to using these types of headers is better pressure control, better water circulation, and reduced back pressure to pool pumps.
You do not have to bother about your pool type as it serves both, the inground swimming pool and the above-ground pool.
Pros
- It uses 2-inch OD headers, which help with pressure control while improving water circulation.
- The temperature rise is appreciable but not as high as what the S601 offers.
- It offers square footage of up to 48 sq. ft., which is okay. But the S601 exceeds this coverage.
- Works for in-ground pools and above-ground pools.
Cons
- Installation can get a bit complicated.
6. SunHeater S120U Universal Solar Pool Heating System
None of the other solar pool heaters in our review can withstand the pressure the SunHeater S120U Solar Pool Heating System can tolerate. But beyond its high water pressure limit, this pool heater offers a very high-temperature rise and multiple mounting options.
Our Review
The SunHeater S120U Universal offers a surface area of 40 square feet on square footage. This falls short of what the S601 offers and most of the other solar pool heaters offer. But it trumps the square footage of the Intex Solar Pool Heater Mat, the Game 72000-BB, and the SolarPoolSupply pool heater.
Most swimming pools use solar pool heaters with a surface area that is 50 to 100% of their square footage. Going by this, you may not be able to use this solar pool heater for a pool with square footage greater than 80 square feet.
While the square footage is just about decent, its water pressure limit is pretty impressive. You can use this solar pool heater with a pool pump with a capacity of up to 3 hp. None of the other pool water heating systems on our list has a pressure limit as high as this.
On average, under the right conditions, your pool water temperature can be bumped up by 6 to 10℉. Then under the best conditions, the pool water temperature can rise by up to 15℉.
The temperature rise matches the best of all the solar pool heaters in the review. It is on par with the S601, the SunHeater Aboveground, and the S240U.
You are spoiled for choice regarding the mounting types available. You can lay it flat on the ground or on a fence. Alternatively, you can place it on a rack or install it on a roof. However, you will have to buy a rack separately or make one yourself.
The SunHeater S120U is a universal solar pool heater. In other words, you can use it with an above-ground pool or an in-ground pool.
Like the S601, the SunHeater S120U manufacturer offers 2 value-added products at extra cost. You can get the reel system, which helps pack and unpack the solar panels with ease. Then you may also get the liquid heat shield, which reduces pool water loss through evaporation and increases heat retention.
Pros
- Offers the highest water pressure limit of any of the solar pool heaters on our list.
- The temperature rise is pretty high – as high as that of the S601.
- You get to choose any mounting type you want.
Cons
- The square footage could be higher.
7. Intex Above Ground Pool Heater
The Intex Solar Heater Mat features on our best solar pool heaters review because of the decent temperature rise it offers. But beyond the temperature rise, this product is made with UV-stabilized PVC, which drives its durability.
Our Review
The square footage of Intex is one of the lowest in our review. In fact, only the Game 72000-BB offers a lower surface area. Nonetheless, you can buy multiple units of the mat to meet the needs of your own pool. One unit has a surface area of about 11 square feet. So, you will need about 7 to 8 pieces to match what the S601 offers.
The Intex solar-powered pool heater mat provides a temperature rise of around 5 to 9℉. While this is not one of the highest amongst the reviewed solar pool heaters, it is pretty significant. But if you would prefer more heat, check out the S601, the Sunheater Aboveground, or the S120U.
You can only mount the mat flat on the ground. And this means you may not be able to adjust the tilt angle for maximum heating efficiency.
The water pressure limit is not very impressive. The manufacturer states that the solar blanket is only compatible with 0.5 hp pool pumps. So, it has the lowest water pressure limit of any of the solar pool heaters on our list. But it should still do the job if installed properly.
Intex is not suited for an inground pool. It was designed only for aboveground pools. If you want a product you can use for both pool types, consider the SunQuest, the S240U, or the S120U.
The Intex is easy to install on the flip side. It features 1 ¼” (32mm) hose attachment points, an adaptor A for 1 ½” hose connection, and an adaptor B for 1 ½” hose connection. It also comes with a 19-inch long 1 ¼” connecting hose. With all of the said fittings in place, installation is typically a breeze.
Beyond all the above, this solar pool heater mat is optimized for durability. For one, it is made with UV-stabilized PVC. So, you can expect that it would remain in top shape for many seasons.
That aside, this solar pool heater mat folds into a compact shape. So, you never have to stress about finding space to store it in winter.
Pros
- The temperature rise is pretty appreciable – although the S601, the S120U, and a few others offer higher temperature rises.
- It is pretty portable – easy to fold and store.
- Made with UV-stabilized PVC, this solar pool mat typically resists solar damage, contributing to its durability.
Cons
- The water pressure limit could also be higher.
8. GAME Curve Solar Pool Heater
The Game 72000-BB is the only curve solar pool heater on our list. It is one of the least expensive solar pool heaters on our list, with the Intex being the only cheaper alternative.
Beyond being inexpensive, the Game offers a unique design, considerable durability, and passable temperature rise.
Our Review
The manufacturer estimates that when the Game is ideally installed, it can raise pool water temperature by up to 5 degrees in 4 days. Of course, this is the lowest temperature rise and heating rate of any of the solar pool heaters on our list. But on the upside, it allows for gradual and sustained solar pool heating.
The Game ground pool heater offers square footage of just around 8.59 square feet. Lower than that of the S601 and every other solar pool heater in the review. But its curved design helps maximize heat collection even with the small surface area.
While it was crafted for aboveground pools, it is also compatible with many inground pools. Besides that, it comes with a bypass kit so that you can connect it to other solar pool heaters.
This solar pool heater is made from UV-tolerant plastic, and this raises its overall durability. You should get many seasons out of it before you notice any sign of UV degradation.
Pros
- Made from plastic with decent resistance to UV radiation.
- It offers gradual and sustained heating.
- Compatible with both in-ground and aboveground pools.
- Comes with foldable and adjustable legs.
Cons
- While heating is gradual and sustained, the temperature rise is the lowest of any product on the list.
9. SolarPoolSupply Highest Performing Design
Last on our list is the SolarPoolSupply Highest Performing Design. This solar pool heating panel offers a passable water pressure limit, a decent surface area, and a fair temperature rise.
Our Review
The SolarPoolSupply has a surface area of 32 square feet. This means it has higher square footage than Intex Solar and the Game 72000-BB. Nonetheless, it still falls short of the S601. Of course, you can get multiple units until the total meets your pool’s requirements.
You can have a temperature rise of up to 10℉. Compared to the other solar pool heaters we have reviewed, this is pretty decent. Only the S601, the S120U, and the SunHeater Aboveground can go higher.
The solar panel is compatible with pool pumps with capacities of up to 1 hp. While the S601 can work with 1.5-hp pumps, the water pressure limit is still passable. It matches those of the Fafco and the S240U.
You may mount the panel flat on the ground, on a rack, or on a rooftop. However, if you choose to install it on a rack or rooftop, you have to get a rack separately.
This energy-efficient solar pool heater is made with compounded polypropylene. It resists UV degradation to a high degree. Then again, it resists corrosion and the deposition of scale on its wall. So, overall, the durability is top-notch.
Pros
- It has a water pressure that is pretty okay. But the S601 and the Sunheater S120U have higher limits.
- The temperature rise offered by this solar heater is pretty decent. However, the S601, the S120U, and the SunHeater Aboveground offer higher rises.
- You get to choose from multiple mounting options.
- Made from pre-compounded propylene, this solar heater offers substantial durability and should keep working for many years.
Cons
- If you install it on the rooftop or a rack, you have to get a rack separately.
- The square footage could be higher.
Buyer’s Guide
Square Footage, Sizing, and Solar Cover
The heating efficiency of solar pool heating systems is, in part, dependent on square footage. The size or square footage of solar pool heater systems, in turn, is dependent on the availability of sunlight, the swimming season duration you desire, the square footage of the pool, the pool type, and the presence of a solar pool cover, amongst other factors.
Generally, it is estimated that the square footage of pool solar panels/heaters should be at least 50% of the pool’s square footage. But if you live in a region that does not get enough sunlight, you may want to get a swimming pool heater that is about 100% of the pool’s square footage. Else, you may not get as much heating as you desire.
If you want a longer season, then you should look to get a solar panel heating system with a surface area closer to 100% of the pool size. The bigger the solar pool heating, the longer you can keep warm water, the longer your swimming season.
An in-ground pool is insulated by the earth surrounding it. So, it does not lose pool water to radiation as fast as an above-ground pool will. For this reason, the size of the solar pool heaters for above-ground pools are typically slighter larger than those for an in-ground pool.
Your swimming pool will retain more heat with a solar pool cover than without one. So, if you have a solar pool cover, your pool can make do with a solar heater with lower square footage.
In the end, you can buy multiple units if one will not suffice for your pool size. So, while the square footage is a vital feature to look out for, it is not complicated.
Temperature Rise
This is very vital – the main reason you are getting a solar pool heater is to raise your pool’s water temperature.
Oftentimes, manufacturers indicate the potential temperature rise their products can offer to your pool. But you should know that if solar collectors are not exposed to solar heat at the best angle or installed in an optimal location, getting high-temperature rises would be pretty hard.
Also, if the duration of sunlight in your region is short, most solar pool heaters may never get sufficient solar heat to make your pool warm enough.
So, while you consider the temperature rise stated by the manufacturer, consider the external factors that apply to you. For better temperature rises, you should look out for solar pool heaters with higher upper-temperature limits.
Mounting Options
Solar pool heaters are typically mounted in 3 ways: flat on the ground, on a rack, and on a roof. Some solar pool heaters are designed to accommodate all three mounting options. On the other hand, some solar pool heaters work with one or two mounting options.
The importance of flexibility in the choice of mounting options is defined by the varying efficiency of each option. While you can get high heating efficiency with roof-mounted pool heaters, those mounted flat on the ground typically do not reach maximum efficiency.
Besides heating efficiency, mounting type also affects space optimization. Roof-mounted pool heaters optimize space better than rack-mounted pool heaters and those mounted flat on the ground.
Nonetheless, roof-mounted swimming pool heaters take longer to install. And in some cases, getting on the roof to install them may not be feasible.
All in all, if you can get a product that supports all 3 mounting types, you can easily choose what suits the factors peculiar to you.
Pool Type
Your pool is either an above-ground pool or an in-ground pool. Whichever it is, know that the heating requirements of both pool types differ.
While in-ground swimming pools get some insulation from the earth surrounding them, above-ground swimming pools don’t. For this reason, in-ground swimming pools typically retain heat longer than above ground swimming pools. Hence, their general heating requirements are low.
But beyond the difference in heating needs, the installation options for both types of pools differ. Some manufacturers design their products to suit just one pool type, while others craft theirs to suit both pool types.
Ensure you check that it is compatible with your pool. Better still, look out for a product that supports both pool types.
Water Pressure Limit
The maximum water pressure of a solar-powered pool heater varies from one product to another. So, before choosing from amongst the solar pool heaters in the market, verify the water pressure limit.
If you select a solar water heater with a water pressure limit below the capacity of your pool pump, you may damage the solar heater. However, if you install a bypass valve alongside the pool heater, you can control the pressure and prevent such damage.
Durability
It goes without saying, that you should lookout for a product made from high-quality materials. Anything short of quality, and you may not be able to use the pool heater beyond a few seasons.
Keep an eye out for UV-treated solar collectors. These types will resist degradation by UV rays from the sun and last for many seasons. You should also look out for solar collectors that will not crack at low temperatures. Some products crack in colder regions, so the owners never really get to use them.
Warranty
The warranty is one detail you should not miss and the warranty details give you some more confidence about the quality of a solar pool heating system.
The warranty period of solar pool heaters can span as long as 20 years. Of course, many products do not have a warranty period of 20 years. So, consider the details of the warranty and the cost of the solar pool heating cost, then decide whether it is worth it or not.
Conclusion
When choosing the best solar pool heater systems, prioritize how much temperature rise your choice can give you. Once that is settled, consider the square footage. You wouldn’t want to have to buy multiple units of solar collectors before you can get the solar heating you desire. That will just take space and complicate things. Then once those two features are settled, check for the capacity of the pump it can work with, check for the mounting options, and verify the product’s durability.
When it has to do with selecting an above ground pool, you first should know where you’re likely to put it. If you’ve got an above ground pool, make sure you purchase the best robotic pool cleaner.