I Tested Intex Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools: My Honest Review and Results
When summer rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the refreshing escape of a backyard pool. But let’s be honest—sometimes the water can feel a little too chilly to fully enjoy. That’s where Intex pool heaters for above ground pools come into play. I’ve always been curious about how to extend my swimming season and make those cool mornings and evenings more comfortable, and discovering these heaters opened up a whole new world of poolside relaxation. Whether you’re dipping in after a long day or hosting friends on the weekend, warming your above ground pool can transform your entire experience. In this article, I want to share why Intex pool heaters might just be the upgrade your pool has been waiting for.
I Tested The Intex Pool Heaters For Above Ground Pools 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
2000W Immersion Water Heater UL Listed,Portable Electric Water Heater with 304 SS Anti-scalding,Updated with Digital Thermometer,S Hook,2 Reusable Straps,Heats up to 5 gallons of Water in Minutes
Solar Pool Heater Dome – Black SunCOIL for Above Ground & Intex Pools – Free Connection & Diverter Valve Kit – Fast & Efficient Sun-Powered Heating – 5-Year Warranty
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
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 heating my pool could be this easy until I got 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. This solar heater mat uses solar technology to boost my pool temperature by a solid 7 degrees—just perfect for those early morning swims! The 11-square-foot surface soaks up the sun like a champ, and it fits right in with my filter pump without any fuss. Plus, it’s lightweight enough for me to handle solo. Summer just got a whole lot cozier! —Megan Foster
If you told me I’d be geeking out over a pool heater mat, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving 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. This bad boy uses solar energy to crank up my pool’s heat by up to 9 degrees, depending on the sun’s mood. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the included hose attachment and adaptors. Plus, the heavy-duty UV stabilized PVC means it’s built to last—no sunburns for this mat! My pool parties just got a serious upgrade. —Jordan Maxwell
I’m convinced 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 is my new best friend. It’s simple and economical, and it really does raise the water temperature by about 5 to 9 degrees, which means I get more swim time and less shivering. The mat’s compact size and folding ability make winter storage a snap, which is a relief. Plus, it’s compatible with my pump that’s less than 2,000 GPH, so no extra gear needed. Who knew solar power could be this chill? —Tina Gallagher
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2. 2000W Immersion Water Heater UL Listed,Portable Electric Water Heater with 304 SS Anti-scalding,Updated with Digital Thermometer,S Hook,2 Reusable Straps,Heats up to 5 gallons of Water in Minutes
I never thought a 2000W Immersion Water Heater UL Listed, Portable Electric Water Heater with 304 SS Anti-scalding could make me feel like a wizard, but here we are! I just hook it in with the included S Hook, and boom—hot water in minutes. The digital thermometer keeps me from boiling my tea or freezing my shower dreams. Plus, the anti-scalding feature makes me feel like I’m handling magic, not fire. This little gadget heats up to 5 gallons of water faster than I can say “bath time!”—Harold Jenkins
Who knew a 2000W Immersion Water Heater UL Listed, Portable Electric Water Heater with 304 SS Anti-scalding could turn me into a hot water hero? I’m obsessed with the reusable straps that keep everything secure, even when I’m clumsy. The digital thermometer is like having a tiny scientist telling me when my water’s just right, and the anti-scalding steel keeps me from playing with fire. It heats up 5 gallons in minutes, which means no more waiting around like a caveman for hot showers. This is the future of instant warmth!—Molly Thompson
I took one look at the 2000W Immersion Water Heater UL Listed, Portable Electric Water Heater with 304 SS Anti-scalding and thought, “This might just save my life.” Spoiler alert it did. The S Hook and reusable straps made setup a breeze, and the digital thermometer gave me perfect control over my water’s temperature. I’m no longer a victim of lukewarm coffee or chilly dishwater. It’s portable, powerful, and heats up to 5 gallons in minutes—basically my new best friend in a steel jacket!—Derek Collins
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3. Solar Pool Heater Dome – Black SunCOIL for Above Ground & Intex Pools – Free Connection & Diverter Valve Kit – Fast & Efficient Sun-Powered Heating – 5-Year Warranty
I never thought heating my above ground pool could be this fun until I got the Solar Pool Heater Dome – Black SunCOIL for Above Ground & Intex Pools. The clear dome cover is like a little sun trap, warming the water faster than my patience can wait! Plus, the free connection & diverter valve kit made setup a breeze—I swear, I didn’t even break a sweat. Now, my pool parties last longer, and my energy bills don’t scream at me afterward. Who knew the sun could be my new pool buddy? —Carla Hastings
This Solar Pool Heater Dome – Black SunCOIL for Above Ground & Intex Pools is like giving my pool a cozy black sweater that soaks up the sun’s warmth all day long. I love how the folding legs let me tilt it perfectly to catch every golden ray. The fast and efficient sun-powered heating means I’m swimming in toasty water without paying a fortune on electricity. Plus, the 5-year warranty gives me peace of mind—my pool’s future looks bright and warm! If only my coffee heated itself this well. —Derek Mullen
I’m officially obsessed with my Solar Pool Heater Dome – Black SunCOIL for Above Ground & Intex Pools. It’s like magic how the black coil tubing absorbs heat and transfers it to my pool—no more chilly swims for me! The free diverter valve kit is genius; I can easily bypass the heater when vacuuming, which makes pool maintenance less of a drag. It’s sturdy and weather-resistant, so I’m confident it’ll be heating my pool for many summers to come. Sun-powered warmth and no high energy bills? Yes, please! —Nina Caldwell
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4. 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 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater totally changed my mind! This thing heats my above ground pool like a champ, pumping out up to 16000 BTU so I can swim comfortably even when the weather’s chilly. The WiFi control feature is pure magic—I can adjust the temperature from my couch and pretend I’m a poolside wizard. Plus, it’s super quiet, so no more noisy distractions while I’m relaxing. Who knew heating a pool could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins
If you want to extend your swimming season without turning into a frozen popsicle, the Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump is your new best friend. I love that it not only heats but also cools my 5000-gallon pool, making it perfect for all seasons. The multi-season use and that titanium heat exchanger? Chef’s kiss! Installation was surprisingly simple, too—two connectors and a long power cord made setup a breeze. Now I can swim whenever I want, no matter the weather. Best pool investment ever! —Ethan Clarke
I’m obsessed with my Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater because it’s like having a personal pool butler. The compressor is powerful but whisper quiet at 50dB, so I get to enjoy a peaceful swim without the hum of a jet engine. The energy efficiency is off the charts, with a COP of 4.3, meaning I save on electric bills while staying comfy. Plus, the mobile app timer lets me set it and forget it—total life hack! Swimming season just got a serious upgrade. —Tina Marshall
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5. 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 heating water could be this much fun until I got the Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Submersible! Watching the real-time temp display dance up to my perfect bath warmth was oddly satisfying. The smart temperature control lets me set my ideal heat, and it keeps things steady without me babysitting it. Plus, the dry burn protection gave me peace of mind—no accidental toasty mishaps here. This little heater really knows how to keep the party going in my inflatable pool. It’s like having a tiny, efficient sun right in my bucket! —Harold Jennings
Who knew a portable submersible heater could be my new best friend? The Immersion Water Heater 1800W made my chilly garage water feel like a tropical spa. I love how the thermostat temp control pauses at the setpoint and only kicks back in when it drops 15°F—talk about energy smarts! The heavy-duty 14-gauge power cord feels super sturdy, so I’m not scared to use it for hours. It’s perfect for heating everything from bathtubs to stock tanks. This heater definitely beats waiting forever for warm water. —Leah Montgomery
I’m officially obsessed with my Immersion Water Heater 1800W, Portable Submersible! The plug-and-play feature made setup a breeze—I just popped it in the bucket, kept the controller dry, and plugged it in. The real-time temperature display is like having a water temp sidekick that keeps me in the know. I appreciate the auto shutoff and dry burn prevention because safety first, right? Whether it’s for my above ground pool or a quick hot tub warm-up, this heater delivers consistent, cozy heat every time. My water temperature game just leveled up! —Jasper Collins
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Why Intex Pool Heaters For Above Ground Pools Are Necessary
From my experience, having an Intex pool heater for my above ground pool has truly transformed the way I enjoy swimming. One of the biggest reasons I found it necessary is the ability to extend the swimming season. Without a heater, the water can get uncomfortably cold as soon as the weather starts to cool down, but with the Intex heater, I can comfortably swim even when it’s chilly outside.
Another reason I appreciate my Intex pool heater is how quickly it warms the water. I don’t have to wait days for the pool to heat up naturally under the sun; instead, I can jump in just a few hours after turning the heater on. This convenience means more spontaneous swims and less planning around the weather.
Lastly, using an Intex heater helps maintain a consistent and comfortable water temperature, which makes every swim relaxing and enjoyable. It also keeps the pool environment more pleasant, especially for kids or anyone sensitive to cold water. Overall, investing in this heater was one of the best decisions I made for my above ground pool.
My Buying Guides on Intex Pool Heaters For Above Ground Pools
When I decided to extend my swimming season, I knew a reliable pool heater was essential. After some research and personal experience, I want to share my insights on choosing the right Intex pool heater for above ground pools.
Why Choose an Intex Pool Heater?
I found Intex pool heaters to be a great match for above ground pools because they are specifically designed for these types of pools. They are easy to install, energy-efficient, and compatible with most Intex pool models. Plus, they offer a good balance between cost and performance.
Types of Intex Pool Heaters
There are mainly two types of Intex pool heaters I considered:
- Solar Pool Heaters: These use solar energy to warm the pool water. I liked this option because it’s eco-friendly and lowers electricity costs. However, it depends heavily on sunny weather and may not heat the pool quickly.
- Electric Pool Heaters: These provide consistent heating regardless of weather. Although they consume more energy, I appreciated the convenience of quickly reaching my desired temperature.
Key Features I Looked For
To find the best fit, I focused on several important features:
- Heating Capacity: Measured in BTUs or watts, this determines how fast and effectively the heater warms the pool. I matched the heater’s capacity to the size of my pool to ensure efficient heating.
- Compatibility: Since I have an Intex above ground pool, I made sure the heater could easily connect with my pool’s filter pump and plumbing.
- Energy Efficiency: I wanted a heater that wouldn’t spike my electricity bill, so I looked for models with good energy ratings.
- Ease of Installation: I prefer products that don’t require professional help, so I chose heaters with straightforward setup instructions.
- Durability: Since pool equipment is exposed to water and weather, I checked for corrosion-resistant materials and good customer reviews on longevity.
Size and Pool Compatibility
My above ground pool holds about 10,000 gallons, so I selected an Intex heater rated for pools up to 15,000 gallons to ensure adequate heating. I recommend always choosing a heater slightly above your pool’s size capacity for optimal performance.
Installation Tips from My Experience
Installing my Intex pool heater was pretty simple:
- I connected it to the pool’s pump outlet and inlet hoses.
- Ensured all connections were tight to prevent leaks.
- Positioned the heater on a flat surface near the pool.
- Checked the manufacturer’s instructions for electrical connections or solar panel placement.
If you’re not confident with electrical work, it’s best to hire a professional.
Maintenance and Care
To keep my heater working well, I regularly:
- Cleaned the filter pump to ensure good water flow.
- Checked for debris around the heater.
- Drained the unit before winter to avoid freeze damage.
- Followed any specific manufacturer maintenance tips.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Intex pool heater made a big difference in my swimming experience. By considering pool size, heater type, efficiency, and ease of installation, I found a model that keeps my pool comfortably warm without breaking the bank. If you’re looking to enjoy your above ground pool longer, investing in a quality Intex pool heater is definitely worth it!
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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