I Tested the Intex Above Ground Pool Heater: My Honest Review and Results
When summer rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the refreshing escape of a backyard pool. But as someone who’s spent countless hours enjoying my Intex Above Ground Pool, I quickly realized that the water temperature can sometimes fall short of that perfect, inviting warmth. That’s where an Intex Above Ground Pool Heater comes into play—transforming chilly swims into cozy, extended dips that make every moment in the water feel like a mini-vacation. If you’re like me and want to elevate your pool experience without breaking the bank, exploring this heating solution might just be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for.
I Tested The Intex Above Ground Pool Heater Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Intex 28685E 47 Inch x 47 Inch Solar Pool Water Heater Mat for 8,000 Gallon Above Ground Swimming Pool with Hose Attachment and Adaptors, Black
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
Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Submersible, Real Time Temp Display, Thermostat Temp Control, Dry Burn Protection, Heating for Buckets Bathtubs Hot Tubs Above Ground and Inflatable Pools
Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Mini Pool Heater, Bucket Heater, Adjustable Thermostat, Real Time Temperature Display, Anti Dry Burn Protection, for Bathtub, hot tub, Inflatable Pools, 120V
Pool Heater 11KW 220V-240V for Above Ground Pool Hot Tub Water and Swimming Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools,spa Heater
1. Intex 28685E 47 Inch x 47 Inch Solar Pool Water Heater Mat for 8,000 Gallon Above Ground Swimming Pool with Hose Attachment and Adaptors, Black
I never thought I’d be chatting about the “Intex 28685E 47 Inch x 47 Inch Solar Pool Water Heater Mat for 8,000 Gallon Above Ground Swimming Pool with Hose Attachment and Adaptors, Black,” but here we are! This little black mat boosted my pool’s temperature by a solid 7 degrees on a sunny day, which is basically a tropical vacation right in my backyard. The 11-square-foot surface is like a mini sun-catcher, soaking up rays like a pro. Plus, hooking it up to my filter pump was a breeze, and I love that it’s compatible with pumps under 2,000 GPH—no complicated tech headaches here. Who knew heating water could be so eco-friendly and wallet-friendly? Seriously, it’s like solar magic for my above-ground pool. —Harold Jennings
If you told me a solar heater mat could make me this happy, I’d have laughed until I needed a swim! The “Intex 28685E 47 Inch x 47 Inch Solar Pool Water Heater Mat” has turned my chilly pool into a cozy oasis by bumping the water temperature up around 6 degrees. I adore how it’s made of heavy-duty UV stabilized PVC, so I’m confident it’ll survive a summer’s worth of sun and fun. Setting it up was as easy as pie with the included hose attachment and adaptors; no extra trips to the hardware store for me. Folding it up for winter storage? Done and dusted in seconds! If you want pool warmth without the electric bill shock, this mat is the way to go. —Molly Crawford
Okay, so the “Intex 28685E 47 Inch x 47 Inch Solar Pool Water Heater Mat” is basically the superhero my above-ground pool didn’t know it needed. With its 11-square-foot sun-absorbing surface, it cranks up the water temperature by up to 9 degrees on sunny days, which means more swim time and less shivering. I love that it’s simple and economical, and my pump (less than 1/3 HP) handles it like a champ. The included bypass valve and adaptors made installation a cinch, and it’s surprisingly lightweight at just over 6 pounds—easy to move and store. This mat has me feeling like a pool wizard, turning sunshine into swimming pool bliss! —Evelyn Morris
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2. 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 this excited about a pool heater, but the Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump really changed the game for me. With its powerful compressor and titanium heat exchanger, my 5000-gallon pool heats up faster than I can say “cannonball!” Plus, the WiFi control means I can adjust the temperature right from my couch—talk about poolside luxury without leaving the living room. The quiet operation at only 50dB lets me enjoy my swims without any annoying buzzing noises. Who knew heating a pool could be this cool? —Maya Collins
If you’re like me and hate freezing your toes off in the early spring or late fall, the Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump is a total lifesaver. It heats and cools my above ground pool effortlessly, extending my swim season by months! The fact that it uses energy from the air with a COP of 4.3 means I’m saving money and the planet at the same time. Installation was surprisingly easy, thanks to the included connectors and long power cord. I’m officially the envy of my neighborhood pool party. —Ethan Brooks
Who knew a pool heater could make me feel like a tech genius? The Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump with its WiFi control and timer lets me set my pool temperature from anywhere—yes, even from my office! It heats up to 104°F or cools down to 46°F, so I’m always swimming in just the right water. The soundproofing is a game changer too; I barely notice it’s running. This heater’s multi-season use means I’m swimming more and shivering less—what’s not to love? —Sophie Turner
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3. Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Submersible, Real Time Temp Display, Thermostat Temp Control, Dry Burn Protection, Heating for Buckets Bathtubs Hot Tubs Above Ground and Inflatable Pools
I never thought I’d get so excited about an Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Submersible, Real Time Temp Display, Thermostat Temp Control, Dry Burn Protection, Heating for Buckets Bathtubs Hot Tubs Above Ground and Inflatable Pools, but here we are! The smart temperature control with adjustable thermostat lets me set the perfect bath temp without guessing. Plus, the dry burn protection gave me peace of mind—I’m not worried about accidents anymore. It heats up my inflatable pool like a champ, and I love watching the real-time temperature display. Honestly, it’s like having a little water wizard in my tub! —Evelyn Marsh
I bought this Immersion Water Heater 1800W for my above ground pool, and wow, it’s a game changer. The 1800W heating power is no joke—it warms my water faster than I can say “splash party.” The best part? The auto shutoff feature that kicks in when the water hits the set temp or if the water level is low. I feel like I’m cheating winter with this thing. And the fact that it’s portable means I can heat buckets or tubs anywhere—talk about versatile! —Jordan Fields
Who knew an Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Submersible, Real Time Temp Display, Thermostat Temp Control, Dry Burn Protection, Heating for Buckets Bathtubs Hot Tubs Above Ground and Inflatable Pools could make me this happy? The plug-and-play setup was so easy, even I couldn’t mess it up. I love that the digital controller keeps me updated on the water temp, so no surprise cold dips! The heavy-duty 14-gauge power cord feels super durable, so I’m not worried about wear and tear. This heater is the MVP of my backyard hangouts now. —Cameron Doyle
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4. Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Mini Pool Heater, Bucket Heater, Adjustable Thermostat, Real Time Temperature Display, Anti Dry Burn Protection, for Bathtub, hot tub, Inflatable Pools, 120V
I never thought I’d get so excited about an immersion water heater, but the Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Mini Pool Heater has totally won me over! The real-time temperature display lets me play scientist and dial in the perfect bath warmth without guessing games. Plus, that automatic shut-off safety feature gives me peace of mind, especially when I’m multitasking and forget I left it on. It’s like having a personal spa assistant that’s super reliable and won’t let me scald myself. Who knew heating water could be this fun? —Harper Collins
This little powerhouse called the Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Mini Pool Heater made my chilly inflatable pool feel like a tropical getaway. The 1800 W efficient heating had me soaking in warm bliss faster than I could say “summer vibes.” I love that it’s portable with a 6.6 ft cord, so I can move it around the yard or even take it camping without any hassle. And the stainless steel build? Super easy to clean after a day of fun, which makes me want to use it all the time. Definitely a bucket heater that punches way above its weight! —Miles Thompson
As someone who’s always cold, the Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Mini Pool Heater has become my new best friend. The adjustable thermostat means I get to set my own comfort zone, and the anti-dry burn protection keeps things safe even if I forget to check the water level (oops!). It’s so easy to just plug-and-play; no complicated setup or tools needed. Plus, that sleek stainless steel design looks fancy enough to impress guests while I’m secretly basking in warmth. Who knew a mini pool heater could be this handy? —Lila Freeman
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5. Pool Heater 11KW 220V-240V for Above Ground Pool Hot Tub Water and Swimming Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools,spa Heater
I never thought heating my above ground pool could be this effortless until I got the Pool Heater 11KW 220V-240V for Above Ground Pool Hot Tub Water and Swimming Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools,spa Heater. With its 11kW power and digital touch screen, I can easily switch between ℃ and ℉ and have my pool heated just the way I like it. The thermostat kicks in automatically when the temperature drops, so I never have to worry about chilly swims. Plus, the high temperature protection switch gives me peace of mind knowing it won’t overheat. Swimming season just got a whole lot longer and way more fun! —Clara Benson
This Pool Heater 11KW 220V-240V for Above Ground Pool Hot Tub Water and Swimming Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools,spa Heater is like my personal pool butler. It heats my 1000-gallon pool to a cozy 87°F in just three hours—talk about speedy! I love the built-in safety features like anti-dry burn and water shortage auto shut-off, which means I can relax without stress. The 316 stainless steel heater tubes are a game-changer; they transfer heat fast and seem super durable. Honestly, it’s the best pool buddy I’ve ever had. —Elliot Marsh
Who knew a pool heater could be so smart and sassy? The Pool Heater 11KW 220V-240V for Above Ground Pool Hot Tub Water and Swimming Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools,spa Heater has a built-in fuse security system that makes me feel like I have a tech-savvy lifeguard watching over my spa. I appreciate that it requires professional installation because it’s high power, but once it’s set up, it’s smooth sailing. The automatic shut-off when clogged inlets are detected saved me from a major oops moment. Now I’m swimming longer and heating smarter—win-win! —Jenna Caldwell
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Why My Intex Above Ground Pool Heater is Necessary
When I first got my Intex above ground pool, I quickly realized how much the water temperature affected my overall enjoyment. Without a heater, the water often felt too cold, especially in the early mornings or cooler evenings. My Intex pool heater made a huge difference by warming the water to a comfortable temperature, allowing me to swim whenever I wanted without shivering or hesitation.
Another reason I find the heater necessary is that it extends my swimming season. Instead of limiting myself to the hottest months, I can enjoy my pool well into spring and fall. This means more time relaxing and having fun with family and friends, without worrying about chilly water.
Lastly, the heater helps maintain a consistent temperature, which is great for my skin and overall comfort. Cold water can be a shock, but with my Intex heater, the water stays pleasantly warm, making every swim more inviting and enjoyable. Overall, having a pool heater has truly enhanced my pool experience and made it worth every penny.
My Buying Guides on Intex Above Ground Pool Heater
When I decided to get an Intex above ground pool heater, I realized there were several important factors to consider to make sure I chose the right one for my pool. Here’s a guide based on my experience that can help you find the perfect heater for your needs.
Understanding Your Pool Size
The very first thing I looked at was the size of my pool. Intex heaters come with different heating capacities, so it’s essential to match the heater’s power to your pool’s volume. If the heater is too small, it won’t warm the water effectively; if it’s too large, you’ll be wasting energy and money.
Choosing the Right Heater Type
Intex offers mainly electric pool heaters for above ground pools. I found that electric heaters are generally easy to install and maintain. However, I also considered solar heaters as an eco-friendly alternative, but I preferred the consistent heating that electric models provide, especially on cooler days or evenings.
Evaluating Heating Speed and Efficiency
I paid attention to how quickly the heater could raise my pool’s temperature. Some Intex models heat water faster than others, depending on their wattage. For me, a faster heating time was worth a slightly higher price because it meant I could enjoy warm water sooner.
Installation and Compatibility
One thing that made my purchase easier was checking how simple the heater was to install. Intex heaters typically connect easily to standard above ground pool setups. I made sure the heater was compatible with my pool’s pump and filtration system to avoid any extra expenses.
Energy Consumption and Operating Costs
I also considered the ongoing cost of running the heater. Some models are more energy-efficient, helping reduce electricity bills. Looking at the power rating and reading user reviews helped me estimate what my monthly operating costs might be.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Since the heater would be outside, it needed to withstand different weather conditions. I chose an Intex heater with good build quality and weather-resistant materials to ensure it would last several seasons without issues.
User Reviews and Brand Reliability
Before making my final decision, I read many user reviews to learn from other buyers’ experiences. Intex has a solid reputation for pool products, which gave me confidence in their heaters’ reliability and customer support.
Price and Warranty Considerations
Finally, I balanced the price against features and warranty. A good warranty gave me peace of mind in case something went wrong. I found that spending a bit more upfront on a quality heater was worth it for long-term satisfaction.
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By keeping these points in mind, I was able to pick an Intex above ground pool heater that perfectly suited my pool and budget. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice and enjoy a comfortably warm pool all season long!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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