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9 Best Above Ground Pool Heaters 2025 in the UK

Intex 28212UK Metal Frame Pool Set, Blue, 12 ft x 30-Inch & Eco-Friendly Solar Heating Mat for Swimming Pools #28685

Heating Capacity: Raises water temperature 3 to 5 degrees
Type of Heater: Eco-friendly solar heating mat
Energy Efficiency: Low maintenance, solar-powered
Installation and Maintenance: Easy install; fits pumps under 2,500 GPH
Durability and Warranty: Durable metal frame; puncture-resistant PVC
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Lay-Z-Spa Heater Pump Unit With Freeze Shield Technology UK Plug

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,420
Heating Capacity
Installation and Maintenance
Heating Capacity
The new pump works like a dream, heating well and being quieter than the old one.
Installation and Maintenance
Easy installation and perfect functionality make this pump a great replacement for a worn-out unit.

The Lay-Z-Spa Heater Pump Unit with Freeze Shield Technology is designed for those who own AirJet models of Lay-Z-Spa, including both the 2021 version and earlier models. One of its strengths is its compatibility with multiple spa models, making it a versatile choice for AirJet users. The Freeze Shield technology is a standout feature, allowing the heater to function all year round, which is particularly valuable in colder climates where the risk of freezing can be a major concern.

This unit powers the Lay-Z-Spa massage system, adding an extra layer of relaxation to your spa experience. The inclusion of a timer function is another user-friendly feature, offering convenience by automatically heating the water. Installation and maintenance seem straightforward, as the product is aimed at home users.

Weighing about 12.74 kg, the heater pump unit is relatively portable. It ranks highly in pool accessory parts, indicating its popularity among users. This product is best suited for those already invested in the Lay-Z-Spa ecosystem, looking for a reliable year-round heating solution.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,420
Heating Capacity
Installation and Maintenance
Heating Capacity
The new pump works like a dream, heating well and being quieter than the old one.
Installation and Maintenance
Easy installation and perfect functionality make this pump a great replacement for a worn-out unit.
#2

Intex 28212UK Metal Frame Pool Set, Blue, 12 ft x 30-Inch & Eco-Friendly Solar Heating Mat for Swimming Pools #28685

Rating
9.6
Heating Capacity
Type of Heater
Energy Efficiency
Heating Capacity
The eco-friendly solar heating mat gently warms the water, providing a mild temperature boost without extra energy costs.
Type of Heater
The eco-friendly solar heating mat gently warms the water, providing a mild temperature boost without extra energy costs.
Energy Efficiency
The eco-friendly solar heating mat gently warms the water, providing a mild temperature boost without extra energy costs.
Installation and Maintenance
The pool is sturdy and fairly easy to assemble, making it ideal for kids to swim in safely.
Durability and Warranty
The floor is non-slippery and the sides are strong enough to comfortably sit on, adding to its practical design.

This Intex pool set combines a durable metal frame pool and an eco-friendly solar heating mat designed for above-ground pools. The pool itself is made from puncture-resistant 3-ply PVC material, holding about 1718 gallons of water and offering solid build quality for its size. The solar heating mat uses environmentally friendly technology to raise water temperature by around 3 to 5 degrees, depending on the weather and pool size.

It’s especially suited for pools under 8,000 gallons, with the option to connect multiple mats for larger pools. Installation is straightforward, as the mat simply attaches to a pump with a flow rate below 2,500 gallons per hour, making it low maintenance and energy-efficient since it relies on solar power rather than electricity or gas. However, its heating capacity is limited compared to electric or gas heaters, so it’s best for mild temperature boosts rather than rapid or large-scale heating.

This set is well suited for pool owners seeking an affordable, eco-friendly solution to gently warm their above-ground pool water with minimal installation effort.

Rating
9.6
Heating Capacity
Type of Heater
Energy Efficiency
Heating Capacity
The eco-friendly solar heating mat gently warms the water, providing a mild temperature boost without extra energy costs.
Type of Heater
The eco-friendly solar heating mat gently warms the water, providing a mild temperature boost without extra energy costs.
Energy Efficiency
The eco-friendly solar heating mat gently warms the water, providing a mild temperature boost without extra energy costs.
Installation and Maintenance
The pool is sturdy and fairly easy to assemble, making it ideal for kids to swim in safely.
Durability and Warranty
The floor is non-slippery and the sides are strong enough to comfortably sit on, adding to its practical design.
#3

Lay-Z-Spa Hot Tub WiFi Enabled Airjet Plus Pump Pool Heater | for All AirJet Models | Lazy Spa Pump | P05335

Rating
9.4
Energy Efficiency
Installation and Maintenance
Energy Efficiency
It works much better than previous models and has an economy setting.
Installation and Maintenance
The pump has had issues with leaks and valve problems, requiring replacements.

The Lay-Z-Spa Hot Tub WiFi Enabled Airjet Plus Pump Pool Heater is designed for AirJet model pool owners. It has a corded electric power source and operates at 230 volts, providing reliable heating for small to medium-sized pools. Notable is its WiFi capability, allowing remote control and monitoring via a smartphone app, enhancing user convenience.

Weighing 12.5 kilograms, it is relatively lightweight and manageable during installation and maintenance. Although made from plastic, which may be less durable than metal alternatives, it should still suffice for regular use if handled carefully. With a 4.6-star rating from 17 customer reviews, users likely appreciate its performance and ease of use.

Ranking 12th in the pool heaters category on the best-seller list, this product shows moderate popularity and reliability. The heater is well-suited for AirJet model pool owners seeking a user-friendly, WiFi-enabled heating solution, with considerations around its material and energy efficiency.

Rating
9.4
Energy Efficiency
Installation and Maintenance
Energy Efficiency
It works much better than previous models and has an economy setting.
Installation and Maintenance
The pump has had issues with leaks and valve problems, requiring replacements.

Buying Guide for the Best Above Ground Pool Heaters

Choosing the right above-ground pool heater can significantly enhance your swimming experience by maintaining a comfortable water temperature. When selecting a pool heater, it's important to consider various factors such as the size of your pool, your climate, and your preferred heating method. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Heating CapacityHeating capacity, often measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), indicates how much heat the heater can produce. This spec is crucial because it determines how quickly and effectively the heater can warm your pool. Smaller pools may require heaters with lower BTUs, while larger pools need higher BTUs for efficient heating. To pick the right one, consider the size of your pool and the desired temperature increase. For example, a pool of up to 10,000 gallons might need a heater with around 50,000 BTUs, whereas larger pools may need heaters with 100,000 BTUs or more.
Type of HeaterThere are several types of pool heaters, including gas heaters, electric heat pumps, and solar heaters. Gas heaters are known for their quick heating capabilities and are ideal for colder climates or for those who want to heat their pool rapidly. Electric heat pumps are energy-efficient and work best in moderate climates, as they rely on ambient air temperature to heat the water. Solar heaters are environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run, but they depend on sunny weather and may not be suitable for all regions. Choose the type of heater based on your climate, energy preferences, and how quickly you want your pool to heat up.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency refers to how effectively a pool heater converts energy into heat. This spec is important because it impacts your operating costs and environmental footprint. Look for heaters with high energy efficiency ratings, which can save you money on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Gas heaters typically have efficiency ratings between 80-95%, while electric heat pumps can have efficiency ratings over 200% due to their ability to transfer heat rather than generate it. Solar heaters are highly efficient as they use renewable energy. Consider your budget for energy costs and your environmental concerns when choosing a heater.
Installation and MaintenanceInstallation and maintenance requirements vary between different types of pool heaters. Gas heaters usually require professional installation and regular maintenance to ensure safe operation. Electric heat pumps are easier to install and maintain but may need occasional servicing. Solar heaters have minimal maintenance needs but require proper installation to maximize efficiency. Think about your willingness to handle installation and maintenance tasks or your ability to hire professionals when selecting a heater. If you prefer a low-maintenance option, solar heaters might be the best choice.
Durability and WarrantyDurability and warranty are important factors to consider as they affect the longevity and reliability of your pool heater. A durable heater will withstand the elements and provide consistent performance over time. Look for heaters made from high-quality materials and with robust construction. Additionally, check the warranty offered by the manufacturer, as a longer warranty period can provide peace of mind and protection against potential issues. Choose a heater with a good balance of durability and warranty to ensure long-term satisfaction.