The 13 Best Solar Pool Heaters of 2023

SPECIALIZED STRAPLESS MOUNTING: Superior rail mounting system allows for strapless flush mounting to any roof type. SwimJoy solar panels are secured at both the top and bottom manifold, producing an extremely secure attachment while allowing for thermal expansion and contraction. This design enhances mounting security in high wind climates and enables SwimJoy to withstand strong storm winds. This design also adds flexibility to the number of mounting locations available on each manifold.

ONE OF THE MOST ROOF-FRIENDLY SYSTEMS AVAILABLE: SwimJoy’s mounting sleds elevate each riser tube above the roof’s surface and allow the roof to breathe, prevent moisture buildup, and virtually eliminate wind loads. When combined with SwimJoy’s separated tube design and rail mounting system (which requires only one anchor per pad), the result is fewer penetrations and a more aesthetic installation. These innovations set SwimJoy apart & make it one of the most roof friendly systems available!

LEADING ATTACHMENT METHOD: SwimJoy features the patented Panel Clamp Assembly connection system with a proven record of being the best industry method for connecting panels together and to PVC plumbing. This clamping style eliminates traditional rubber hoses and hose clamps which deteriorate over time requiring maintenance and replacement. This low-profile connection also drastically improves aesthetics, allowing panels to be mounted closer together for a cleaner, more attractive appearance.

TOP-OF-THE-LINE MANUFACTURING: SwimJoy’s unique square header maximizes flow and increases efficiency. Headers and risers are formed together through a patented manufacturing process creating a single solid piece, eliminating seams and welds that can crack with age and stress. This produces the strongest possible connection and ensures a low maintenance system.

PREMIER PURCHASE PROTECTION: SwimJoy solar pool heater panels are protected by an industry leading 12-year limited warranty that includes a bonus lifetime limited warranty and freeze protection; the longest - most comprehensive warranty coverage in the industry.

SOLAR POOL HEATER – The Sunheater Solar Pool Heating System allows you to capture free heat from the sun’s rays to effectively raise your pool water temperature. It’s an efficient and cost-effective method to heat your pool.

EXTENDS POOL SEASON – Your pool’s pump pushes the water through the panel’s many tubes where it’s warmed by the sun and then returned to the pool. This system can raise the water temperature up to 15°F and extend your pool season by weeks!

EASY TO INSTALL – This pool solar heater requires an SK21 System Kit to complete installation (sold separately). A single SK21 kit can accommodate up to 4 – S2220IG two-panel systems. Installation/instruction manual included.

TUBE-ON-WEB DESIGN – The tube-on-web design allows Sunheater to capture the most sun possible, maximizing square footage. It offers rigid flexibility, allowing panels to expand and contract with changing temps, giving it the strength needed to last.

DIMENSIONS – This system includes two 2’ x 20’ panels (80 sq. ft) & is designed specifically for inground pools. Multiple S2220IG systems can be connected together to produce more heat in less time/efficiently heat larger pools. See description for guide.

SUPERIOR MANUFACTURING: Made from precompounded polypropylene, a process which increases the materials resistance to UV light (lengthens service life substantially). This manufacturing process eliminates the inherent quality issues that plague cheaply manufactured products which typically see a lifespan of only 1-2 years.

QUALITY ASSURANCE: Manufactured from high-grade materials proven to last in all types of weather and withstand the harsh conditions of a rooftop for up to 15-20 years. Each panel is put up against more than 40 quality control inspections throughout the entire manufacturing process to ensure the final product.

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: Each panel is guaranteed to be free from manufacturer defects, withstand the effects of freezing weather and will not fail from corrosion or scale deposits in the walls of its water passages (10-year limited warranty).

HIGHEST PERFORMING DESIGN: Constructed in a tube-and-web design allowing for normal expansion and contraction as the panel heats up and cools down, extending service life. A direct, metered manifold delivers a balanced flow through the collector and prevents hot-spots. These panels should be installed vertically for optimal performance and drainage.

UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Replaces any solar pool heater panel containing a round 1.5" I.D. / 1.9" O.D. header manifold and makes attachments with a rubber coupling.

NSF TESTED AND CERTIFIED PRODUCT QUALITY: SwimEasy solar pool heater panels are made in the USA, undergo rigorous manufacturing techniques to increase life expectancy, and hold up against the strict testing standards required for NSF certification. A process of melt-blending plastics with special additives is key. This process is more expensive, however eliminates the quality issues of cheaper manufacturing methods which result in plastics that generally last only a couple years.

FIELD PROVEN RELIABILITY: SwimEasy’s high-grade materials & specialized manufacturing techniques make the panel capable of withstanding the harsh conditions of a rooftop, in all types of weather, for 15-20 years! Each panel is subject to 40+ quality control inspections throughout the manufacturing process to ensure the final product. These same materials are used by some of the country’s most renown residential & commercial installers due to decades of proven performance & reliability.

HIGH PERFORMANCE “ZIPPERED” PANEL DESIGN: SwimEasy’s solar panel design maximizes heat absorption while minimizing the amount of heat lost by restricting wind loads from passing through each riser tube. Each collector contains 7 "zipper-seams" down the length of the panel. These allow the panel to be "unzipped" at multiple locations to fit around small roof obstructions, while staying “zipped” when unneeded. This functionality allows for installation flexibility while maximizing heat retention.

LEAK-FREE CONNECTION METHOD: SwimEasy utilizes heavy duty CPVC pipe connectors for making connections with PVC pipe. Plastic threaded fittings do not provide a secure connection and tend to leak quite frequently. SwimEasy contains no threaded fittings, instead making connections through glued slip attachments to PVC pipe, as well as grooved & barbed clamp attachments to durable EDPM rubber couplings (designed specifically for solar pool heating), creating a completely secure, leak-free seal.

A SYSTEM IS ONLY AS GOOD AS ITS PARTS: The SwimEasy DIY kit comes packaged with premium installation components that are vital for unlocking true performance and longevity. It's pointless to provide a quality system if not accompanied with quality parts. Using higher grade hardware really make a difference, both in performance as well as life expectancy. For a breakdown of exactly what parts are included, please scroll down to the section titled “What’s Included”.

Keep your pool warm with a polypropylene heat collector. Direct Flow System - One Header Hole for Each Heating Tube

Solar heater features 80 square feet of solar panels

Pool accessory is perfect for heating any in-ground swimming pool

Panel array measures 4 feet wide x 20 feet long. Raises Pool Water Temperature 6-10°F (4-6°C)

Installation kit required (Sold Separately)

Hailstone Resistance: up to φmm (1"), Max Operating Pressure: 4psi

316L Stainless Steel Inner Manifold for high chlorinated water corrosion resistance

φ58mm x 1800mm Three-Target Cu/SS-ALN(H)/SS-ALN(L)/ALN Vacuum Tubes, High Boron Silicon 3.3 Glass

Sun Absorption Efficiency: 93-96%, Vacuum Rating: Less than 5.0 x 10-3. Pa, Lifespan:70% @ 15+ Years

1" Male NPT Inlet/Outlet Ports, Easy to dissasemble

SOLAR POOL HEATER – The Sunheater Solar Pool Heating System allows you to capture free heat from the sun’s rays to effectively raise your pool water temperature. It’s an efficient and cost-effective method to heat your aboveground pool.

EXTENDS POOL SEASON – Your pool’s pump pushes the water through the panel’s many tubes where it’s warmed by the sun and then returned to the pool. This system can raise the water temperature up to 15°F and extend your pool season by weeks!

EASY TO INSTALL – This solar pool heater uses your existing filtration system & comes with the necessary plumbing fixtures to connect to a rigid wall aboveground pool using flex hoses (hard plumb installations will require additional parts not included).

TUBE-ON-WEB DESIGN – The tube-on-web design allows Sunheater to capture the most sun possible, maximizing square footage. It offers rigid flexibility, allowing panels to expand and contract with changing temps, giving it the strength needed to last.

DIMENSIONS – This Sunheater Solar Pool Heater System includes two 2’ x 20’ panels (80 sq. ft) and is perfect for heating aboveground pools that measure up to 31’ round or 18’ x 36’ oval.

Simple DIY installation; for in ground or above ground pools

Installs on roof, rack, ground or fence

Patented web design for maximum exposure to sun's rays

Uses existing pool pump

Raises pool water temperature 6-10 degrees F

Additional kits or plumbing may be required.

SOLAR POOL HEATER: The GAME SolarPRO Curve Solar Pool Heater has been designed for above-ground pools. It increases the pool temperature by 5 degrees in 4 days (for an 8,000-gallon pool).

DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: We’ve designed this above-ground solar pool heater with high-quality materials that will hold up against frequent exposure to the sun and outdoor elements.

UNIQUE CURVED SHAPE: The GAME solar pool heater has been engineered with a unique curved shape that maximizes heat collection. The treaded ports have been added for versatile plumbing options.

ADJUSTABLE LEGS: This solar heater is compatible with Intex, Bestways, and most above and inground pools. The adjustable and foldable legs allow the heater to be set for maximum exposure to the sun, along with a clear cover that locks in heat.

THE PERFECT GRADUAL HEATER: This solar pool heater is not intended to be a miracle-cure heater. It’s designed to extend your pool season by gradually increasing the water temperature by a few degrees. Maximum heat output with space saving footprint

NEW & IMPROVED: Based on customer feedback we have made several improvements the GAME SolarPRO Above-Ground Pool Solar Heater including adapters for 32mm, 38mm, and 40mm hoses which work with most Intex and Bestway pools as well as extra parts for easy replacement.

BYPASS KIT NEEDED FOR CONNECTING MULTIPLE UNITS: A GAME multiple heater bypass kit is required if you are going to use more than one solar pool heater.

ABSORBS SUNLIGHT: Solar Sun Ring is composed of two sheets of UV-resistant vinyl that convert solar energy into heat, adding free heat to your pool with only the power of the sun

RETAINS HEAT AND WATER CHEMISTRY: This solar blanket cover retains heat at night and reduces evaporation of water and chemicals

ALL WEATHER: Water anchors add stability and weight for storms and windy conditions

SALT WATER OR CHLORINE: Compatible with automatic pool cleaners and not affected by salt or chlorine systems

EAST TO CLEAN: Easy to clean and store; when not in the water, do not store in direct sunlight as the product can burn whatever items are below it; Color: Sunburst-blue; Dimensions (W x H): 60 x 2 inches