Struggling to maintain a warm swimming pool? Solar pool heaters are your eco-friendly solution for year-round comfort.
Solar pool heaters harness the sun’s energy to maintain your pool’s temperature, making swimming enjoyable even in cooler months. Top products like Intex 28685E and YiViKPE offer efficient heating solutions that can significantly reduce energy costs while keeping your pool warm.
Features such as the Intex 28685E’s compact design and the YiViKPE’s leakproof hose simplify installation and enhance performance. These products are designed to work efficiently with above-ground pools, ensuring you spend more time swimming and less time worrying about heating.
In our full review, we break down performance, durability, and more to help you choose the perfect heater for your needs.


Intex Solar Pool Water Heater Mat 47″
In a market flooded with solar pool heaters, the Intex 28685E 47 Inch x 47 Inch Solar Pool Water Heater Mat stands out by offering a lightweight, efficient solution for heating above-ground pools. This mat utilizes solar technology to raise pool water temperatures by approximately 5 to 9 degrees, making it an eco-friendly choice for pool owners.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the popular SunQuest Solar Pool Heater, making installation and handling much easier.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the aesthetically pleasing AquaHeat models, which may appeal to those looking for a stylish addition to their pool area.
This heater mat features an 11-square-foot surface area designed to absorb sunlight effectively, ensuring maximum heat for pools up to 8,000 gallons. Weighing only 6.41 pounds, it is easy to set up and take down, especially when preparing for winter storage. The Intex mat is compatible with filter pumps up to 1/3 HP and a flow rate of less than 2,000 GPH, making it versatile for various pool setups.
Pick this if weight matters most, as its lightweight design simplifies installation. However, if you prioritize aesthetics, you might want to explore other brands with more color options. Overall, the Intex 28685E offers reliable performance and ease of use for above-ground pool owners seeking an affordable heating solution.
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YiViKPE Solar Pool Heater for All Pools
In a market flooded with solar pool heaters, the YiViKPE Solar Pool Heater stands out by offering a user-friendly design and efficient heating capabilities for both above ground and inground pools.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the popular Intex Solar Heater, making it easier to install and move as needed.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the SunQuest Solar Heater, which may appeal to those looking for aesthetic variety.
This product shines in its ease of installation; with pre-installed water inlets and outlets, setup takes just 5-10 minutes. The greenhouse effect created by its circular transparent lid effectively locks in heat, ensuring your pool stays warm. Additionally, the convenient storage feature allows for easy packing away when not in use, making it a practical choice for seasonal pool owners.
However, if you are someone who values a wider range of color choices for home aesthetics, you might find the YiViKPE lacking compared to brands like SunQuest. Despite this, the lightweight nature and quick setup make it an excellent option for those prioritizing convenience and efficiency.
Pick this if weight matters most, as it provides a perfect balance of functionality and ease of use for your pool heating needs.
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Doheny’s Solar Heating System for Pools
In a market flooded with solar heating solutions for above-ground pools, Doheny’s Solar Heating System stands out by offering an eco-friendly and efficient way to extend your swimming season. This system harnesses solar energy, significantly reducing reliance on traditional gas or electrical heating methods.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than some competitors like the SolarSun Heating Panels, making it easier to install and handle.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than Brand B, which offers a wider variety of aesthetic choices for your backyard setup.
If weight and ease of installation are your primary concerns, pick this if weight matters most. The lightweight design allows for easier mounting, whether on a roof or beside the pool, and the included mounting kits provide everything needed for straightforward installation.
However, if you’re looking for a more customizable appearance, you might want to explore alternatives like Brand B, which offers more color options. Overall, Doheny’s Solar Heating System is a solid choice for those prioritizing efficiency and ease of use in solar pool heating.
To buy this product, click here.
Sun2Solar 24 ft Round Pool Solar Cover
In a market flooded with solar pool covers, the Sun2Solar Blue 24 ft Round Pool Solar Cover stands out by effectively utilizing the sun’s natural energy to heat your pool while offering exceptional heat retention capabilities. This 800 Series blanket not only raises water temperature by up to 15 degrees but also keeps it warm long after the sun sets, making it a reliable choice for pool owners.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the Blue Wave Solar Cover, making installation and removal significantly easier.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the Intex Solar Cover, which offers a wider variety of aesthetic choices.
Pick this if weight matters most, as the Sun2Solar cover is easier to handle without compromising on performance. Its ability to reduce evaporation by up to 95% not only conserves water but also minimizes chemical use, providing an eco-friendly solution for pool maintenance. While it may not offer the same visual variety as some competitors, the practical benefits of heat retention and debris prevention make it an excellent choice for those focused on functionality. Overall, the Sun2Solar Blue 24 ft Round Pool Solar Cover is a top contender for anyone looking to enhance their pool experience while keeping maintenance simple and efficient.
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Goplus Solar Pool Heater 2.5FT x 10FT
In a market flooded with solar pool heaters, the Goplus 2.5FT x 10FT Solar Pool Heater stands out by offering a combination of efficiency and portability. This system is designed to heat water for both above-ground and inground pools, making it a versatile choice for pool owners.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than similar models from competitors, making it easier to install and transport.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than brands like Intex, which may not appeal to those looking for aesthetic variety.
The Goplus heater features high-efficiency heating capabilities, raising water temperatures by up to 10.8 ℉ and extending your swimming season significantly. Its all-weather PE material ensures durability, functioning well in extreme temperatures from -20°C to 90°C. The roll-up design enhances portability, allowing users to easily relocate the heater as needed.
However, it lacks the aesthetic choices that some competitors offer, which could be a drawback for those who prioritize design. Additionally, it’s important to note that a water pump is not included, which may add to the overall cost if you don’t already own one.
Pick this if weight matters most and you want a reliable, efficient solution for heating your pool without the need for electricity or gas.
To buy this product, click here.
Faq about best solar pool heaters for above ground pools:
1:What are solar pool heaters?
Solar pool heaters use solar energy to warm pool water, providing an eco-friendly and cost-effective heating solution.
2:How do solar pool heaters work?
They circulate pool water through solar panels, where sunlight heats the water before returning it to the pool.
3:Are solar pool heaters effective for above ground pools?
Yes, solar pool heaters are effective for above ground pools, enhancing comfort and extending the swimming season.
4:What size solar pool heater do I need?
The heater size depends on your pool’s surface area; generally, aim for a heater that is at least half the size of the pool’s surface.
5:How long does it take to heat a pool with a solar heater?
Heating time varies based on weather and pool size, but typically, it takes a few days to achieve desired temperatures.
6:Do solar pool heaters require maintenance?
Yes, regular maintenance is needed, including cleaning panels and checking for leaks to ensure optimal performance.
7:Can I install a solar pool heater myself?
Yes, many solar pool heaters are designed for DIY installation, but professional help can ensure proper setup.
Conclusion
Intex Solar Pool Water Heater Mat 47″ exemplifies efficiency and convenience, offering an innovative solution for enhancing pool temperature while minimizing energy consumption. Its user-friendly design and compatibility with above-ground pools make it a favored choice among pool owners seeking sustainable options.
Conversely, the YiViKPE Solar Pool Heater stands out for its versatile application across various pool types, ensuring a rapid increase in water warmth. Its robust construction and effective solar absorption capabilities solidify its position as a reliable investment for those prioritizing eco-friendly heating solutions.




