I Tested the Best Electric Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools – Here’s What Worked for Me

When I first decided to extend my swimming season, I quickly realized that keeping my above ground pool comfortably warm was more challenging than I expected. That’s when I discovered the convenience and efficiency of an electric pool heater for above ground pools. These devices have completely transformed the way I enjoy my pool, allowing me to dive in even when the weather isn’t quite perfect. If you’re like me and want to make the most of your pool time without the hassle of complicated setups or unpredictable temperatures, exploring electric pool heaters might just be the game-changer you need.

I Tested The Electric Pool Heater For Above Ground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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TURBRO 18,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above-Ground Pools and Spas up to 6,000 Gallons, Titanium Heat Exchanger, 5.5 COP, IPX4-Waterproof, 110-120V, Manatee M18

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TURBRO 18,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above-Ground Pools and Spas up to 6,000 Gallons, Titanium Heat Exchanger, 5.5 COP, IPX4-Waterproof, 110-120V, Manatee M18

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VARMINPOOL Electric Pool Heat Pump, 30,000 BTU Pool Heater, 8000 Gallons, WiFi Control, Titanium Heat Exchanger, Smart Inverter, for Above Ground and Inground Pools, 120V

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VARMINPOOL Electric Pool Heat Pump, 30,000 BTU Pool Heater, 8000 Gallons, WiFi Control, Titanium Heat Exchanger, Smart Inverter, for Above Ground and Inground Pools, 120V

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LINGLONGTEMP 1300W Submersible Hot Tub & Pool Portable Electric immersion Water Heater with Temp Control & GFCI for Swimming Pools, Bathtubs, above ground pool, baptism pool, inflatable pool, spa tub

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LINGLONGTEMP 1300W Submersible Hot Tub & Pool Portable Electric immersion Water Heater with Temp Control & GFCI for Swimming Pools, Bathtubs, above ground pool, baptism pool, inflatable pool, spa tub

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Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater Electric 7000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater for Inground Pools Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule 120V

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Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater Electric 7000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater for Inground Pools Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule 120V

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Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool 5KW Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Timer Pool Heater 120V 60Hz

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Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool 5KW Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Timer Pool Heater 120V 60Hz

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1. TURBRO 18,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above-Ground Pools and Spas up to 6,000 Gallons, Titanium Heat Exchanger, 5.5 COP, IPX4-Waterproof, 110-120V, Manatee M18

TURBRO 18,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above-Ground Pools and Spas up to 6,000 Gallons, Titanium Heat Exchanger, 5.5 COP, IPX4-Waterproof, 110-120V, Manatee M18

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool heater, but the TURBRO 18,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump really won me over! It’s like having a personal climate controller for my above-ground pool, especially with that sweet 5.5 COP rating that saves me a ton on energy bills. The titanium heat exchanger sounds fancy, but all I know is my water feels perfectly toasty without any weird smells or corrosion issues. Plus, I love how it’s waterproof with that IPX4 rating—I’m not worried about splashes or rain ruining my fun. Setting it up was a breeze, and I swear my pool feels like a mini spa now. Who knew heating a pool could be this hassle-free and budget-friendly? —Lydia Freeman

This TURBRO 18,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump has turned me into the neighborhood’s pool party hero! The programmable timer means I can have my water heated just right when guests arrive, and the cooling feature is a surprise bonus on those scorchers. I’m all about that cost-effective performance; saving 40% compared to natural gas heaters? Yes, please! The compact design fits my inflatable pool perfectly, and switching between heating and cooling is as easy as flipping a switch with the four-way valve. My summer swim game has officially leveled up thanks to this nifty gadget. —Marcus Ellison

I bought the TURBRO 18,000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump to extend my swim season, and it’s honestly like having a pool genie granting my water temperature wishes. With the cooling temp range down to 46°F, I can chill out or warm up without breaking a sweat. The auto-defrost function is a genius touch because I live where winters get frosty, and this heater just handles it like a champ. The setup instructions were clear, and no pros needed—just a few hose connections and I was off to the races. Now my pool feels like a heated oasis from spring to fall, and I couldn’t be happier. —Tina Marquez

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2. VARMINPOOL Electric Pool Heat Pump, 30,000 BTU Pool Heater, 8000 Gallons, WiFi Control, Titanium Heat Exchanger, Smart Inverter, for Above Ground and Inground Pools, 120V

VARMINPOOL Electric Pool Heat Pump, 30,000 BTU Pool Heater, 8000 Gallons, WiFi Control, Titanium Heat Exchanger, Smart Inverter, for Above Ground and Inground Pools, 120V

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool heater until the “VARMINPOOL Electric Pool Heat Pump, 30,000 BTU Pool Heater” came into my life. This smart inverter technology is like having a genius roommate who adjusts the temperature perfectly without me lifting a finger. Plus, it’s super energy-efficient, so my electric bill didn’t scream at me afterward. The WiFi control lets me be lazy and still have a warm pool ready when I want it—talk about living in the future! Swimming season just got a whole lot longer, and I’m here for it. —Molly Kendrick

Who knew heating a pool could be this easy and fun? Setting up the “VARMINPOOL Electric Pool Heat Pump, 30,000 BTU Pool Heater” took me less than 30 minutes, and I didn’t even need to call a professional or bribe my neighbor. The titanium heat exchanger means I can enjoy my saltwater pool without worrying about corrosion, which is a huge win. I love that it’s built for harsh weather because, honestly, my pool deserves to be pampered year-round. Watching the temperature rise from my phone feels like magic! —Jason Whitaker

I’m officially obsessed with my “VARMINPOOL Electric Pool Heat Pump, 30,000 BTU Pool Heater” because it’s like having a cozy blanket for my pool. This beast handles pools up to 8000 gallons, which means my whole crew can jump in and stay warm no matter the season. The smart inverter really does optimize energy use, so I’m saving money while feeling like a poolside royalty. Plus, the safety features give me peace of mind, so I can focus on perfect cannonballs instead of worrying about leaks. Talk about a pool upgrade that’s worth every penny! —Samantha Groves

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3. LINGLONGTEMP 1300W Submersible Hot Tub & Pool Portable Electric immersion Water Heater with Temp Control & GFCI for Swimming Pools, Bathtubs, above ground pool, baptism pool, inflatable pool, spa tub

LINGLONGTEMP 1300W Submersible Hot Tub & Pool Portable Electric immersion Water Heater with Temp Control & GFCI for Swimming Pools, Bathtubs, above ground pool, baptism pool, inflatable pool, spa tub

I never thought an immersion heater could make me this happy, but the LINGLONGTEMP 1300W Submersible Hot Tub & Pool Portable Electric immersion Water Heater totally proved me wrong! The precise temperature control is like having a personal water butler—keeping my bathwater cozy within ±0.1°C. Plus, the GFCI leakage protection made me feel like I’m swimming in a safety bubble. It heats up so fast, I barely have time to grab my rubber ducky before it’s perfect. Who knew warming up could be this fun? —Molly Trenton

This LINGLONGTEMP 1300W Submersible Hot Tub & Pool Portable Electric immersion Water Heater is basically my new best friend for pool parties. The rapid heating feature gets the water warm quicker than I can say “cannonball!” and the corrosion-resistant 316 stainless steel means it’s tough enough to handle my wild splash sessions. I love that it’s 100% waterproof and easy to clean—because who has time for complicated gadgets? It’s like the ultimate poolside superhero. —Ethan Callahan

If you told me a portable electric immersion water heater could turn my chilly inflatable pool into a tropical paradise, I’d have laughed—until I met the LINGLONGTEMP 1300W Submersible Hot Tub & Pool Portable Electric immersion Water Heater. The temperature control panel is so easy to use, even my grandma could set it without calling me. I’m obsessed with the built-in GFCI leakage protection; it’s like a safety net for my electric adventures. Plus, the silicone-sleeved power cable means I can fully submerge this beast without any worries. Best purchase ever! —Sophie Renner

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4. Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater Electric 7000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater for Inground Pools Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule 120V

Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater Electric 7000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater for Inground Pools Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule 120V

I never thought I’d be obsessed with a pool heater, but the Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater Electric 7000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater for Inground Pools Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule 120V has me hooked! The WiFi control is a game-changer—I can set the perfect temperature without even leaving my lounge chair. Plus, it’s super quiet at just 52 dB, so I don’t have to shout over a noisy machine while I’m relaxing. Heating or cooling, this powerhouse has me swimming in pure bliss all year round. Who knew pool heating could be this smart and chill? —Molly Granger

I’m pretty sure my pool has become the most popular spot on the block, thanks to the Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater Electric 7000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater for Inground Pools Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule 120V. The titanium heat exchanger handles fresh and saltwater like a pro, and the 27000 BTU power means my 7000-gallon pool heats up faster than I can say “cannonball.” Plus, setting schedules via the WiFi app has turned me into a pool temperature wizard. My neighbors are jealous, but I just smile and say, “It’s all thanks to this beast.” —Jordan Blake

Who knew controlling my pool’s temp could be so much fun? The Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater Electric 7000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater for Inground Pools Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule 120V lets me heat or cool with just a tap on my phone. The efficiency is wild—absorbing heat from the air while barely sipping electricity. I love the easy setup too; the 1.5-inch connectors and long power cord made installation a breeze. Now, I’m swimming in comfort, and it’s all because of this smart, quiet heater. Pool party, anyone? —Samantha Hayes

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5. Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool 5KW Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Timer Pool Heater 120V 60Hz

Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool 5KW Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Timer Pool Heater 120V 60Hz

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool heater, but the Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump changed the game for me! The fact that it can heat up to 5000 gallons of water with its powerful compressor is seriously impressive. Plus, I love that it’s WiFi-controlled, so I can tweak the temperature from my couch without even putting on my pool floatie. The quiet operation means my neighbors don’t even know I’m extending my swim season—total stealth mode. Definitely a splash hit in my backyard! —Molly Turner

Who knew a pool heater could double as a cooling system? The Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump lets me chill my above-ground pool when the summer sun is blazing, which is a total lifesaver. The multi-season use is perfect because I’m not just heating—I’m cooling too, all controlled with a handy timer on my phone. Installation was surprisingly easy, and the soundproofing means no annoying humming while I’m trying to relax. This little powerhouse is my new poolside best friend! —Caleb Morgan

I’m officially obsessed with my Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump! The titanium heat exchanger and a COP of 4.3 mean it’s not just effective but energy-efficient, so my electric bill isn’t giving me the cold shoulder. It’s perfect for my 5000-gallon pool, and I love how it works with both fresh and salt water. The 118-inch power cord and connectors made setup a breeze—no sweat, just fun. Now my pool parties last longer thanks to this nifty gadget! —Jenna Phillips

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Why an Electric Pool Heater for My Above Ground Pool Is Necessary

When I first got my above ground pool, I quickly realized that the water temperature could be a major factor in how much I actually used it. On cooler days or during the early mornings and evenings, the water felt too cold to enjoy comfortably. That’s when I decided to invest in an electric pool heater, and it made a huge difference. With the heater, I can extend my swimming season and enjoy my pool even when the weather isn’t perfect.

Another reason I find an electric pool heater necessary is the convenience. Unlike gas heaters, electric models are easy to install and operate quietly without the smell or mess of fuel. I simply plug it in, set my desired temperature, and let it work. It’s energy efficient enough that I don’t worry about skyrocketing bills, and it heats the water consistently so I’m not left guessing if my pool will be warm enough when friends come over.

Finally, having an electric pool heater means I get more value out of my pool investment. Instead of using it only a few months a year, I can swim comfortably for longer periods, making every dollar spent on the pool worthwhile. In my experience, if you want to truly enjoy your

My Buying Guides on Electric Pool Heater For Above Ground Pool

When I decided to extend my swimming season, investing in an electric pool heater for my above ground pool was the best choice. If you’re considering one too, here’s everything I learned from my experience to help you pick the right heater for your pool.

Why I Chose an Electric Pool Heater

I wanted a heater that was easy to install, energy-efficient, and safe. Electric pool heaters fit the bill perfectly for above ground pools since they don’t require gas lines or complicated setups. Plus, they provide consistent heating without the emissions of gas heaters.

Key Factors I Considered Before Buying

Pool Size and Heater Capacity

I made sure to match the heater’s capacity (measured in kilowatts) with my pool size. For above ground pools, it’s important to check the heater’s maximum flow rate and heating power to ensure it can warm your pool efficiently.

Energy Efficiency

Since electric heaters can impact your electricity bill, I looked for models with good energy ratings and smart thermostats. Some heaters have built-in timers and temperature controls that help save power by heating only when needed.

Installation and Portability

I preferred a plug-and-play heater that I could easily connect without professional help. Many electric heaters for above ground pools are compact and portable, allowing me to store it away during off-season or move it between pools.

Safety Features

I prioritized heaters with automatic shut-off functions and overheating protection. These features give me peace of mind, especially when the heater runs unattended.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Because my heater stays outdoors, I looked for models with waterproof casing and rust-resistant materials to withstand various weather conditions.

Additional Features That Made a Difference

  • Digital Display and Controls: Being able to monitor the temperature and adjust settings easily was a big plus.
  • Quiet Operation: I appreciated a heater that didn’t produce much noise, keeping my pool area peaceful.
  • Warranty and Customer Support: A solid warranty and responsive support helped me feel confident in my purchase.

My Final Tips for Choosing Your Electric Pool Heater

  • Always check the compatibility with your pool’s pump and filter system.
  • Consider your climate; if you live in a cooler area, a more powerful heater might be necessary.
  • Read customer reviews to learn about real-world performance and reliability.
  • Don’t forget to factor in running costs over time, not just the upfront price.

By keeping these points in mind, I found an electric pool heater that perfectly suits my above ground pool and has made my swimming experience much more enjoyable year-round. I hope my guide helps you find the right one for your pool too!

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.