How long does a pool heat pump last?

A well-maintained pool heat pump typically lasts 10 to 15 years. Inverter models often outlast standard models because variable-speed compressors experience less mechanical stress. Key maintenance: keep the unit clear of debris, ensure adequate airflow clearance, and have a technician check refrigerant levels every few years. All brands carried are rated for salt water use.

Pool Heaters for Inground Pools

Q: What is the best pool heater for an inground pool?

For most inground pool owners, an electric heat pump is the best option. It costs significantly less to run than gas - typically 70 to 80% less per month - and requires no gas line. For pools up to 20,000 gallons in moderate climates, the GulfStream HE110 RA (115K BTU) is a top performer. For larger pools, the AquaCal SQ200R (138K BTU) is the most capable single unit available.

Q: Do inground pool heaters require a gas line?

Every unit in this collection is an electric heat pump - none require a gas line. They run on a dedicated 220-240V, 30 to 60 amp circuit, which most homes with an existing pool already have or can add for $300 to $800.

Q: What BTU pool heater do I need for a 20,000 gallon inground pool?

For a 20,000 gallon inground pool in a moderate climate, you need roughly 85,000 to 115,000 BTU. In a cool climate like the Northeast, size up to 115,000 to 130,000 BTU. Good options at this size include the GulfStream HE110 RA (115K BTU, heat only) and the GulfStream HE125 TA (118K BTU, heat and cool).

Q: Can a pool heat pump heat and cool my inground pool?

Yes - most units in this collection are Heat/Cool models that do both. In heating mode they extract warmth from the air and move it into the water. In cooling mode they reverse the cycle, moving heat out of the water. This is especially useful in warm climates like Florida, Texas, and Arizona where summer water temperatures can reach 90 degrees F or above.

Best Inground Pool Heaters - Heat Pumps and Gas Heaters for All Pool Sizes

This collection covers both electric heat pumps and gas heaters for in-ground pools. Heat pumps pull heat from the surrounding air and are the lower operating cost choice for pools used regularly in warm climates. Gas heaters burn propane or natural gas to generate heat instantly at full output regardless of air temperature - the right choice for pools that sit unused for stretches, cold climates, large pools, or spa setups where fast recovery matters. Use the table below to find the right unit for your pool size, then scroll down to browse all products.

Skip to products

Inground Pool Heaters - Full Lineup by Pool Size

Pool Size	Unit	BTUs	Type / Mode	Price
Up to 7,500 gal	Madimack InverECO 32K	32,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$2,110
Up to 10,000 gal	Madimack InverECO 40K	40,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$2,450
Up to 12,000 gal	Madimack InverECO 50K	50,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$2,680
Up to 12,000 gal	Hayward HeatPro 50K	50,000	Heat/Cool	$2,999
Up to 15,000 gal	FibroPool FH270	70,000	Heat/Cool	from $1,935
	AquaCal T70 TropiCal	63,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$3,311
	Madimack InverECO 66K	66,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$3,115
Up to 17,500 gal	FibroPool FH285-i	85,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	from $2,386
Up to 20,000 gal	Hayward HeatPro 100K	100,000	Heat/Cool	$5,499
	GulfStream HE110 RA	115,000	Heat Only	$3,895
	GulfStream HE125 TA	118,000	Heat/Cool	$4,695
	Madimack InverTitan 90K	90,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$5,000
Up to 23,000 gal	GulfStream HE125 RA	125,000	Heat Only	$4,095
Up to 25,000 gal	Hayward HeatPro 140K	140,000	Heat Only	$6,999
	AquaCal SQ140R	114,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$4,652
	AquaCal SQ145	121,000	Heat Only	$5,435
	AquaCal T100 TropiCal	108,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$4,770
	Madimack InverELITE 84K	84,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$6,230
	Hayward H150 (Natural Gas)	150,000	Gas Heat Only	$2,999
	Hayward H150 (Propane)	150,000	Gas Heat Only	$2,999
Up to 27,000 gal	GulfStream HE150 RA	142,000	Heat Only	$4,495
Up to 30,000 gal	AquaCal T130 TropiCal	123,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$5,519
Up to 30,000 gal	GulfStream HE150 TA	137,000	Heat/Cool	$5,095
Over 30,000 gal	AquaCal SQ160R	128,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$5,316
	AquaCal SQ200R	138,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$6,450
	Madimack InverELITE 116K	116,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$6,900
	Madimack InverTitan 112K	112,000	Heat/Cool Inverter	$5,790
	Hayward H200 (Natural Gas)	200,000	Gas Heat Only	$3,699
	Hayward H200 (Propane)	200,000	Gas Heat Only	$3,699
	Hayward H250 (Natural Gas)	250,000	Gas Heat Only	$3,999
	Hayward H250 (Propane)	250,000	Gas Heat Only	$3,999
Up to 80,000 gal	Hayward H400 (Natural Gas)	400,000	Gas Heat Only	$5,099
Up to 80,000 gal	Hayward H400 (Propane)	400,000	Gas Heat Only	$5,099

Heat pump units require a dedicated 220-240V circuit - no gas line needed. Gas heaters require a gas line (propane or natural gas) plus a 120/240V circuit. Heat/Cool units both heat and chill. Heat Only costs less upfront. Inverter heat pumps run quieter and use less electricity. Cold-climate buyers should size up one tier on heat pumps, or consider a gas heater.

How to Choose the Right Inground Pool Heater

Choose a Heat Pump if... Your pool is used regularly in a warm climate, you want lower monthly operating costs, or you also want to cool the water in summer.

Choose a Gas Heater if... Your pool sits unused for stretches and needs fast heat-up, you're in a cold climate, or you have a large pool or spa where recovery speed matters more than efficiency.

Inverter vs. Standard Inverter heat pumps adjust output based on demand - quieter, more efficient, longer lifespan. Standard models cost less upfront and are simpler.

Natural Gas vs. Propane Same heater, different fuel. Natural gas costs less per BTU in most markets. Propane is the right call when no gas line is available at the installation site.

Questions? We Spec Inground Pool Heater Systems Every Day

Not sure which inground pool heater fits your setup? Call us at 800-809-3741 - we'll match you to the right unit based on your pool size, climate, fuel availability, and budget. We also connect you with licensed local installers through our installation support program.

Inground Pool Heater FAQs

What is the best pool heater for an inground pool?

It depends on how you use the pool and your climate. For most inground pool owners in warm climates who swim regularly, an electric heat pump delivers the lowest operating cost - typically 70 to 80% less per month than gas. For pools that sit unused for long stretches, cold climates, or large pools over 40,000 gallons, a gas heater heats faster and is not limited by air temperature. For very large pools or setups that need both fast recovery and efficient maintenance, pairing a gas heater with a heat pump is worth considering.

What BTU pool heater do I need for a 20,000 gallon inground pool?

For a 20,000 gallon inground pool in a warm climate, a heat pump in the 85,000 to 115,000 BTU range works well for temperature maintenance. In a cool climate, size up to 115,000 to 130,000 BTU. If you prefer a gas heater for this size pool, the Hayward H150 at 150,000 BTU/hr is a solid starting point, or step up to the H200 for faster recovery.

Do inground pool heaters require a gas line?

Only gas heaters do. All heat pump models in this collection run on a dedicated 220-240V electrical circuit - no gas line required. Gas heaters need either a natural gas line or a propane tank plus a smaller 120/240V electrical connection for the control system.

Can a pool heat pump heat and cool my inground pool?

Yes - most heat pump models in this collection are Heat/Cool units. In warm climates like Florida, Texas, and Arizona, summer water temperatures can reach 90 degrees F or above. A heat-and-cool unit lets you dial that back to a comfortable range without any additional equipment. Gas heaters cannot cool the pool.

How long does a pool heater last?

A well-maintained pool heat pump typically lasts 10 to 15 years. Gas heaters typically last 8 to 12 years. Inverter heat pumps often outlast standard models because variable-speed compressors experience less mechanical stress. Key maintenance for both: keep the unit clear of debris, ensure adequate airflow or ventilation clearance, and have a technician inspect refrigerant levels (heat pumps) or heat exchanger condition (gas heaters) every few years.

Do you offer installation?

Yes. Visit our installation support page for details on connecting with a licensed installer in your area. Gas heater installation requires a licensed plumber or HVAC contractor in most jurisdictions.