Above Ground Pool Heaters: Keep Your Pool Warm

Above ground pool heaters add value to your above ground pool while helping to ensure a comfortable, enjoyable swim. You can love your pool and enjoy it for more months out of the year with an above ground pool heater. Solar Pool Supply sells a range of above ground pool heater products for homeowners, from DIY pool heater kits to all the parts and hardware you need to keep your pool warm and comfortable. Above ground pool heaters come in a range of types to meet customer needs. Shopping around can help you find a pool heater that will fit your budget, pool size and lifestyle. 

An above ground pool heater is a device that heats the water in your above ground pool. Solar pool heaters collect energy from the sun and use that energy to heat water in your pool. Solar pool heaters cycle water into and out of the pool continuously to make this happen. Most above ground pool heaters work by pumping water into a collector, where the water is warmed up. Once the water is warm, it’s sent back to the pool where it recirculates. This process takes time but can continue while you swim.

While a pool heater is not an essential part of owning an above ground swimming pool, some homeowners simply won’t swim without a heater to keep the water at a comfortable temperature. Once you’ve installed a heater for your above ground pool, you may never want to go back.

Generally speaking, the most comfortable pool water temperature is about 80 degrees Fahrenheit or more, depending on your preferences and how active you are in the water. For competitive swimming, a pool temperature of 70 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit is acceptable. Without a pool heater, the temperature of the water may fluctuate throughout the summer depending on the temperature of the air during the day and at night. Installing a pool heater helps ensure a comfortable swimming experience by stabilizing, regulating, and increasing pool water temperature. Swimming at times of the year when the air temperature dips at night can lead to a chilly experience in the pool, even if daytime temperatures are high. By installing an above ground pool heater, you can help keep the temperature of the water in your pool a more comfortable temperature for a greater proportion of the year.

Heating the water in your pool also makes your pool more useful and more valuable to potential buyers, should you decide to sell your house. While it’s very difficult to measure the value of your pool heater, it could give you a leg up if you put your house on the market to sell.

Solar Pool Supply sells solar pool heaters that can be professionally installed and heaters that can be installed by homeowners in DIY kits. DIY heaters come with all the instructions for a successful installation, but homeowners who have questions can call Solar Pool Supply’s customer service line for full support during installation. 

Solar Pool Supply was formed on the idea that owning a pool should be fun and affordable, and homeowners who want to heat their pool with quality solar heaters should have the option to do so without paying a lot of extra money for professional installation if they don’t want to. That’s why Solar Pool Supply allows homeowners to purchase their own solar heater products and provides full customer service to clients who need advice on the purchase and installation. While not everyone is a right fit for a DIY installation, Solar Pool Supply makes available all resources to customers to help ensure the best purchase experience possible. Solar Pool Supply sells solar pool heaters from SwimJoy, SwimLux, Heliocol, SwimEasy and SwimEasy TT. We also sell parts and hardware, valves and automation, PVC fittings and more. In other words, we sell everything you need to design and assemble a top quality above ground pool solar heater.

 

The Best Above Ground Solar Pool Heaters of 2023

 

 

Best Above Ground Solar Pool Heater Package

Choosing the best above ground solar pool heater package can be tough. At Solar Pool Supply, we sell a range of DIY kits from the best brands so you can find the right products in your price range. We also offer a comparison tool on our website so you can find a kit that fits your budget and also meets your unique needs. The comparison tool allows you to choose a kit with parts and hardware that offers the best value for your investment. We sell extra solar panels, parts and hardware to make it possible to customize your above ground solar pool heater package.

Choosing the best pool heater for you can be the hardest part of designing your own pool heater configuration; that’s why Solar Pool Supply offers full customer service for clients who call our customer service number, (619) 312-4822, Mon-Fri 8:00am - 5:00pm (PST).

A primary consideration when choosing an above ground solar pool heater is the pool size. The heater you choose must have the capacity to heat your pool, however big that is. The primary loss of pool heat occurs at the pool surface, where evaporation takes place. Therefore, the surface area of the pool is the only size to be considered when trying to choose a heater kit. The size of the solar panels you buy should be directly related to the surface area of the pool. If your solar panels are 50% of the surface area of your pool, this is a 50% offset. A 50% offset will allow for 3 to 4 months of pool heat and warm swimming temperatures (in the summer). If the solar panels are 100% of the surface area of the pool, this is an 100% offset. An 80% to 100% offset is generally necessary if you're looking for a full extension of your swimming season  through the fall and spring. Below are the formulas for calculating the surface area of a geometrically formed pool:

• Circular: πr² (radius being half the diameter of your pool, π=3.14)
• Rectangular: L x W (length x width)

However, you can also measure the surface area of your pool with Google Maps. Simply create an outline of the pool in Google Maps and the app will calculate the surface area and pool volume of your pool for you. A full description of the process is available on our website here.

The climate where you live impacts how well your solar panels function and for how many months of the year your solar heater can be used. Solar panels need to be winterized in cold temperatures and isolated when the temperature outside drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, colder climates with evening temperatures dropping into the low 50s (or lower) during the early spring and late fall may struggle to achieve 80 degree pool water temperatures with solar pool heating alone during these parts of the year. Heating your pool when nighttime temperatures consistently drop this low becomes difficult because the heat generated throughout the daytime can be lost at night. You also run the risk of freeze damage to your solar panels if the solar system is operating when evening temperatures drop to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. If you are looking to run your solar heater in the colder months when temperatures may drop into the upper 30’s or lower, you must be sure your system is installed and plumbed to allow for automatic gravity drainage of the panels and piping when the pump shuts off, or be connected to an automation system with freeze protection enabled. These measures will assure water does not freeze inside your solar panels at night when the temperatures drop. If these measures are followed correctly, solar heating can be a fantastic method for preheating your swimming pool during the colder months, greatly minimizing the operation cost of any external heating method. Adding a cover to your pool to retain heat at night is also an effective way to lengthen the amount of time your solar heater can keep your pool water warm, giving you an even longer swimming season! Covers are also very effective options if you're looking for ways to add even more heat and maximize the potential of your solar pool heater. The solar panels will generate the heat during the way, and the cover will help retain that heat and minimize any potential loss at night. 

If you need help designing your system so the panels automatically gravity drain when the pump shuts off, give Solar Pool Supply a call. We have a trained staff that can help assure your panels and plumbing are done right, all free of charge!

Some parts of the country get less sun exposure and thus benefit less from solar panel heating. Solar panel heaters are most effective in areas that see a lot of sunshine throughout the day or week. If you have questions about what size is best for your pool, and what offset is required to meet your goals, contact Solar Pool Supply.

Know your budget before shopping for your pool heater. Knowing your budget can help you make an informed decision when the time comes. While cost and size are often related when it comes to pool heater selection, you can save money and buy a larger system by choosing a DIY kit and performing installation yourself. You can also save money by selecting a quality heater on your first purchase. Manufacturing methods and materials are paramount if you want a solar heater that will last and provide years of warm swimming without the headaches of replacing panels year after year. Many options exist with low sticker prices, however these options come at a much higher price over time as they typically need to be replaced far more often. As the old saying goes, you generally get what you pay for. Shopping with a quality supplier is important. Solar Pool Supply offers high quality DIY solar heater panels and kits at a very affordable cost. We specialize in providing only the highest quality products that will last, meaning you only need to purchase it once. We also have a very talented staff of solar experts that are available to answer any questions you have. We will even help you design and size your system, all free of charge.

While each system has its own unique features, and those features can affect cost, Solar Pool Supply offers a comparison chart that allows homeowners the opportunity to compare features. This makes it easy to choose a system that has all the elements you need. One important thing to take into consideration is that solar pool heaters have virtually no operational costs (unlike gas pool heaters) which may free up more money for a larger system, if needed.

Solar Pool Supply offers deals and coupons on its website, so browse through the offers as you shop to find the deals that are right for you.

 

Installation and Maintenance of Above Ground Pool Heaters

The installation process for the solar pool heater is intended to be easy, this is why Solar Pool Supply sells its pool heaters as DIY kits. The installation process varies for each system. In general, the rooftop installation is performed first and the plumbing and pool heat pump equipment is installed second. Your DIY kit will come with instructions that show installations step-by-step. Solar Pool Supply has also begun to release easy to follow installation videos that walk you through each step. The best part, if you have any questions along the way, just give them a call. Our customer service is top-notch and really sets them apart from any other source.

Your system will come with instructions to prepare the area and plan

1. Choose a location for your solar panels based on the size of the system you’re ordering.
2. Open each box when the system is delivered and read the instructions thoroughly.
3. Gather the tools required as per the instructions.
4. Unpack and unroll the solar panels to flatten them for installation.

Each system is different, but installation may require a drill, basic hand tools, caulk gun, lock pliers, ladder, pipe cutter or hacksaw. If you plan to install the solar panels on your roof, you will also need safety equipment and fall protection to prevent accidents.

Step-by-step installation instructions are provided in the boxes that are delivered to customers. All instructions are made to be easy to follow, and each kit contains all the hardware and parts required to install the equipment. In addition, you can find the installation instructions on the Solar Pool Supply website, in case you lose your instructions at any time.

It’s important to follow all winterization procedures at the end of the season. Winterization is easy, provided you follow the recommendations in the manual that comes with your unit. In addition, when backwashing the filter or adding diatomaceous earth, disconnect the collectors to keep them free of debris. Read the maintenance procedures in your installation manual before using your solar panel heater.

 

Benefits of Solar Pool Supply Heaters for Your Above Ground Pool

Solar Pool Supply heaters for your above ground pool have many benefits! Below are some reasons that homeowners turn to Solar Pool Supply heaters for their home.

Solar Pool Supply only sells high quality products for its customers, and to ensure that the experience is a positive one, we provide world-class customer service to our clients. Even after you purchase your pool heater, you’ll have all the help you need to complete the installation. We’re committed to ensuring that our customers are happy with their purchase. That’s why each of our products is backed up by a warranty. We’re certain that our products are made to last.

Each of our DIY solar pool heater kits comes with panels and all the hardware you need to heat your above ground pool. Solar pool heaters are eco-friendly because they run almost entirely on energy from the sun. They’re also relatively easy to install and low-cost overall. All of Solar Pool Supply’s solar panel heaters are energy efficient and good for the environment. Unlike gas pool heaters and pool heat pumps, solar heaters rely on energy from the sun to heat the water in your pool. Other pool heaters use fossil fuels to get the job done. Solar Pool Supply is committed to selling high quality energy efficient products to homeowners. Each of our pool heaters uses the energy from the sun to heat the water found in your above ground pool. Solar Pool Supply sells solar heaters with solar panels that can be mounted on your roof or on the ground. Each of our  solar heaters diverts water to a collector where the water is heated and then returned to the pool. 

Solar Pool Supply is proud to provide excellent customer service to its customers. We distinguish ourselves from other pool supply and heater supply companies by offering exceptional support to their customers, to ensure that your pool heater is properly installed. When you purchase a pool heater with Solar Pool Supply, you have access to our customer support team. They can answer your questions about how to install your solar pool product. They also happily answer questions for customers who are trying to select the correct size pool heater for their above ground pool.

Solar Pool Supply provides clients with a generous return policy and a warranty that covers manufacturer defects. Solar Pool Supply also provides customers with the highest level of customer care possible. We help customers design their pool heater configuration to ensure customer satisfaction from start to finish. You don’t have to wonder whether Solar Pool Supply follows through on its commitment to its customers: you can see it in the words from happy clients.

“Brilliant company. Been searching for quality panels for a while. Solar Pool Supply quoted me an excellent price including shipping to the UK. Ordered the panels on Friday and they were delivered to Manchester UK the following Tuesday a distance of over 5000 miles. Customer service, in particular Tyler, was extremely helpful throughout the whole process. The panels are now fitted and performing really well” – Barry B. 5/30/23

“Easy to install. High quality product. Very happy with purchase. Would buy again. Great warranty.” – Jason S. 5/26/23

“Cool stuff! I had one bad panel that came in, got a hold of them and they replaced it super fast and took great care of me. Thank you for a painless purchase!” – Clint M. 5/26/23

“Everything about this company was an absolute pleasure to work with. From the beginning design of my complete system, to the on time delivery, excellent product knowledge from everyone I spoke to. You want a great product with great customer service go with this company.” – Brian M. 5/25/23

“I’m often asked to do reviews and seldom do. This time I am because I am pleased with the help I received both during the purchase and installation. It is a rather simple installation and for once not only met expectation but truly surpassed them. We will gain weeks of swim time for our grandchildren. Thanks!!” – Jim C. 5/25/23  

“Bought a replacement panel. Took all of 10 minutes. Great service.” – Dennis V. 5/24/23

“I bought 8 4’x12’ panels. They were simple to install. Packaged very nicely. My pool went from 75 degrees to 88. I have set it to 90 and it heats to that no problem. Huge savings vs natural gas. I highly recommend.” – David J. 5/23/23

“My son and I replaced the 17 year old 7 panel system that heats our inground pool ( approx. 35K gal.) with your advised replacement kit (12'x4'). The pitch on the roof of the garage was quite steep, at least 40+ degree. Removed the old and replaced with new in 2 days. Awesome!! I am 68 years old and did all the roof work, while my son, 39 years young, did all the ground prep. Went much better than anticipated, and no leaks. thanks to you all, swim on!~” – Mike P. 5/23/23

“This is the second time I’ve ordered product from this company the time they’re extremely helpful and very knowledgeable about the products that they’re selling and make sure that we have the right product. Thank you for being a standup company.” – Rick S. 3/29/23

“The staff at Solar Pool Supply suggested that I also replace the clamps when replacing the panels. I am so glad that I took their advice. Living in Arizona mine were weather beaten and fragile. Very good advice from the staff.” – Edward S. 3/27/23

“The part was an exact replacement for one that failed. Solar Pool Supply provided prompt and free shipping and excellent price (they beat Amazon!). Their range of parts is excellent and they provided quick and valuable information to a follow-up question I had regarding my solar heating system. Would definitely shop with them again.” – Robert K. 3/1/23

“Solar Pool Supply answered numerous questions for me and helped me get the right things I needed to fix a leaking installation. It came with full, clear instructions and a page of things to watch out for. The products were well packaged and seem to be of high quality. I was able to install the replacements and my system is back up and running without any leaks. We’re back to enjoying our pool and spa again. It makes me wish I’d diy’ed the entire solar system myself with Solar Pool Supply rather than trusted a “professional.” I would have done a better job.” – Marianne G. 3/23/23

Solar Pool Supply looks at every testimonial from clients to look for areas where processes can be improved. All that time spent researching the customer experience has helped them to streamline their processes and ensure a high-quality customer experience from start to finish. We only use the highest quality products and are very knowledgeable about those products. This allows them to offer full support to clients who have questions and concerns about their product purchase.

If you’re still not convinced that solar heaters for above ground pools are better than traditional heaters, the chart below presents a side-by-side comparison:

 

Category	Above Ground Pool with Solar Heater	Above Ground Pool with Traditional Gas or Electric Heater
Initial Cost	Moderate (Pool + Solar Heater)	Lower (Pool + Gas/Electric Heater)
Operating Cost	Low (minimal energy costs)	High (constant energy usage for heating)
Energy Efficiency	Highly energy-efficient (uses solar energy)	Less energy-efficient (consumes gas or electricity)
Carbon Footprint	Low (renewable energy source)	High (non-renewable energy sources)
Maintenance Cost	Low (fewer moving parts)	Moderate (regular maintenance for heater)
Lifespan	Long (solar panels last up to 25 years)	Shorter (heaters may require replacement)
Energy Dependence	Low (sunlight is abundant and free)	High (reliant on electricity or gas supply)
Greenhouse Gas Emissions	Reduced (solar energy has no direct emissions)	Increased (burning fossil fuels releases CO2)
Rebates & Incentives	Potential (depends on local government programs)	Limited (fewer incentives for non-renewable energy)
Return on Investment	High (long-term energy savings)	Lower (higher operating and maintenance costs)

 

Invest in Your Comfort and Your Wallet with Solar Pool Heating

Solar pool heating is an excellent investment for homeowners with an above ground pool. This affordable, eco-friendly, low maintenance product returns a lot of value for not a lot of money up front. An above ground pool heater can help you enjoy your pool more by extending the seasons when you can go swimming and by making your pool more comfortable when you’re in the water. An above ground pool heater can also increase the value of your pool and make your home more desirable should you decide to sell.

There are multiple types of above ground pool heaters available, including heat pumps, gas pool heaters and electric pool heaters. Only solar heaters use the energy of the sun to heat the water in your pool. This eco-friendly option is low-cost and easy to maintain. You can heat the water in your pool without a big installation cost and without a lot of ongoing utility costs and maintenance costs. Invest in a DIY pool heater kit from Solar Pool Supply.

 

Above Ground Pool Heaters Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to heat an above-ground pool?

Solar heaters from Solar Pool Supply are DIY-friendly pool heaters that are designed to be installed by homeowners. We provide the support you need to make your installation a success. Our pool heaters use the power of the sun to heat the water in your pool, so they’re eco-friendly and require little ongoing maintenance.

 

Is a pool heater worth it for an above-ground pool?

A solar pool heater is a worthwhile purchase for an above-ground pool because it extends the time of the year when you can use your pool. It’s also a relatively easy installation that many homeowners can do on their own.

 

What type of heater is best for an above-ground pool?

Solar pool heaters are an eco-friendly pool heater that can be installed by a capable homeowner on an above ground pool. Many homeowners consider solar pool heaters to be the best option for their above ground pools.

 

What is the cheapest way to heat an above-ground pool?

Solar pool heaters are the cheapest way to heat an above ground pool because, after installation is finished, the pool heaters use the power of the sun to heat water. This is eco-friendly and inexpensive for homeowners.

 

Embrace the Power of Solar Pool Heaters Today

Solar Pool Supply is here to provide you with the highest quality solar pool heating systems and expert advice to make your transition to eco-friendly pool heating a breeze. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment while enjoying a comfortable swimming pool. Visit solarpoolsupply.com today and take the first step towards a greener and more enjoyable pool experience. Let's dive into the future together!