Best Natural Gas Heaters for Above Ground Pools
On this page 7 sections
A natural gas heater for an above ground pool efficiently warms water, extending your swimming season and providing comfort with quick heating capabilities.
Natural gas heaters offer an efficient way to extend your swimming season by warming above ground pools quickly. These units provide consistent heat, lower operating costs than propane, and work well in various climates. Modern designs now cater specifically to above ground pool owners with compact sizes and improved efficiency.
Top Natural Gas Pool Heater Models
Several manufacturers produce quality natural gas heaters designed for above ground pools. Here are the leading options:
Hayward Universal H-Series
The Hayward H-Series features electronic ignition and FireTile combustion chambers. Models range from 150,000 to 400,000 BTU with 81% thermal efficiency. The Hayward H250FDN (250K BTU) is particularly popular for medium-sized pools.
Pentair MasterTemp
Pentair’s MasterTemp line offers models from 175,000 to 400,000 BTU. These heaters feature durable cupro-nickel heat exchangers and low NOx emissions. The 200K BTU version provides excellent heating for most residential above ground pools.
Raypak Avia Series
Raypak’s digital Avia heaters range from 150,000 to 406,000 BTU. The P-R264A-EN-C model (266K BTU) includes advanced diagnostics and works at elevations up to 9,000 feet.
| Model | BTU Rating | Efficiency | Pool Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hayward H150FDN | 150,000 | 81% | Up to 15,000 gal |
| Pentair MasterTemp 200 | 200,000 | 84% | Up to 20,000 gal |
| Raypak 009216 | 206,000 | 82% | Up to 21,000 gal |
Key Features to Consider
BTU Output
Choose a heater with adequate BTU rating for your pool size. A general rule is 50 BTU per square foot of pool surface area. For most above ground pools, 150,000-250,000 BTU models work well.
Heat Exchanger Material
Cupro-nickel exchangers last longer than copper in harsh water conditions. The Raypak cupro-nickel models offer excellent corrosion resistance.
Ignition System
Electronic ignition systems (like on the Hayward H-Series) are more reliable than pilot lights and use less gas. They also relight automatically if extinguished by wind.
Installation Considerations
Proper installation ensures safe operation and maximum efficiency:
- Maintain proper clearances (typically 18″ on sides, 48″ above)
- Use approved gas piping materials
- Install a sediment trap in the gas line
- Follow all local codes and manufacturer instructions
According to U.S. Department of Energy, natural gas heaters typically cost less to operate than propane models, saving 30-50% on fuel costs.
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance extends heater life and efficiency:
- Clean the heat exchanger annually
- Check gas connections for leaks
- Inspect the venting system
- Test safety controls
- Winterize properly in cold climates
The Pool & Spa News recommends professional servicing every 2-3 years to maintain peak performance.
Comparing Natural Gas to Other Options
Natural gas heaters offer advantages over other heating methods:
- Vs. Propane: Lower operating costs, no tank refills needed
- Vs. Electric: Faster heating, lower energy costs
- Vs. Solar: More reliable in cloudy weather
For those without natural gas service, consider the best propane heaters as an alternative.
Related pick: Check price on Amazon
Natural Gas Heaters for Inground Pools
Natural gas heaters designed for inground pools typically offer higher BTU outputs and durable construction to handle larger water volumes and longer heating demands. While this page focuses on above ground models, many features such as electronic ignition and cupro-nickel heat exchangers apply to inground units as well. Choosing a heater rated for your pool’s size and volume is key; inground pools often require 250,000 BTU or more depending on surface area and volume. Installation and maintenance recommendations are similar but may involve different clearances and venting requirements due to the permanent nature of inground setups.
Natural Gas Heaters for Inground Pools
Natural gas heaters for inground pools are built to deliver consistent, high-capacity heating for larger volumes of water. They often feature robust heat exchangers and higher BTU ratings, typically starting around 250,000 BTU, to efficiently warm bigger pools. These heaters include advanced ignition systems and safety features similar to above ground models but are sized and installed to suit permanent pool installations. Proper sizing according to pool surface area and volume, plus adherence to local codes for gas and venting, ensures safe and efficient operation.
