Dipping in the pool is not always exciting when the water is cold. Good thing we have pool heaters to solve this problem. A reliable pool heater could give you a few extra weeks or maybe months even if the weather in your area is changing. Since it’s a worthy investment, every pool owner must be wondering what is the best propane pool heater out there?

Reviews Of The Top Best Propane Pool Heaters
After thorough analysis and spending hours testing different pool heaters, we have compiled a list of the top 6 models for you:
1. Raypak 206,000 BTU Digital Electronic Ignition Propane Pool Heater
Pros
- Continuously monitors the water temperature
- Quiet operation
- Safe and simple to operate
Cons
- Expensive
Raypak Gas pool heater is a reliable option for controlling the temperature of your pool water. This digital heater is constructed with a cupro-nickel fin tube to protect against corrosion. It has PolyTuf power coating and polymer headers.
It’s simple to operate and its Microprocessor-controlled thermostat sets to your preference precisely. From the digital display, you can continuously monitor the temperature of the pool water and when the target temperature has reached.
The unit also monitors the voltage to ensure the heater is functioning properly. This 206,000 BTU model is ideal for home use. Even though it’s an expensive option, its modern features and efficiency makes it worthwhile.
2. Digital Heater BTUs: 250000 BTUs
Pros
- Rotating digital display for a better view
- Compact design
- Quiet operation
Cons
- It might take a little adjustments to get the temperature of your preference
This digital heater is one of the most user-friendly options on the list. It does a great job quickly raising the water temperature. Before you even know it, the water is ready to jump into.
The controls of the unit are easy to access. It is eco-friendly and certified for low NOx emission. You won’t be leaving a carbon footprint behind. It is also backed by a 1-year warranty.
It has a rotating display to let you keep track of the temperature. For users’ safety rust proof exterior handles are provided.
3. Raypak 406,000 BTU Digital Electronic Ignition Propane Pool Heater
Pros
- Digital display of temperature
- Best to saltwater and chlorinated pools
- Compact design
Cons
- It may mess up the chemical balance of pool water
Raypoak 406,000 BTU is a sleek pool and spa heater built to withstand all kinds of weather conditions. Set the microprocessor-controlled thermostat to any level you want. Then, simply forget it and the digital display would inform you when the water has reached the desired level.
The unit uses a robust spark-to-pilot ignition system. The cabinet and inside of the heater are rust-resistant and non-corrosive. Raypak 406,000 is built to last for years to come.
It also has self-diagnostic controls so say goodbye to heater faults. The unit comes with all the modern features anyone would want in a heater for inground pools.
4. Pentair PacFab 461061 125K BTU MasterTemp Propane Gas Heater
Pros
- Safe and easy to install
- Rotating digital display
- Designed for small bodies of water
Cons
- Some of its parts might wear out sooner
This affordable unit works great with pools up to 15,000 gallons of water. It operates on the premixed gas combustion technology offering 82 percent thermal efficiency. Expect your pool water to heat up faster.
Monitor and program the unit via the rotating digital display without moving from your position. Like other Pentair models, this one is also certified for low Nox emissions. It’s quiet operation won’t interrupt your leisure time in the pool.
User-friendly indicator light makes the operation easier than ever. If water temperature exceeds the set limit, the heater turns off automatically. You will be enjoying your experience safely.
5. Pentair 460735 MasterTemp 300K BTU Propane Heater
Pros
- Digital controls to monitor temperatures
- Easy to install and operate
- Rust-proof design
Cons
- Some of its parts are fragile
Pentair 460735 is another name for efficiency, convenience, and reliability. This MasterTemp pool heater is powered by the indicator lights to monitor the operation. It has a compact design paired with quiet operation like most other Pentair models.
460735 is easy to install even in the tightest spaces. Its rotating digital display indicates not just the water temperature but 5 LED lights to let you know the status of the system. Within no time, the pool water will be hot and ready to jump in.
6. Raypak 336,000 BTU Digital Electronic Ignition Propane Pool Heater
Pros
- Heats up water fast
- Strong and durable construction
- Easy to operate
Cons
- Its heat exchanger may leak
This sleek and stylish heater is perfect for above ground pool and spas. The unit is made from galvanized metal and copper fin tube heat exchangers. Its ProTek shield makes it resistant to all sorts of corrosions.
Raypak 336,000 features the spark-to-pilot ignition system. The cabinet and internal parts are made from rust-resistant material as well. The digital controls let you set and monitor the temperature effortlessly.
Buyer’s Guide – How To Choose A Propane Pool Heater?
Have a look at some information on narrowing down your options and buying the most excellent heater from the list:
Pool Size

This is the most information to note down. Check the BTU rating corresponding to different pool sizes. Also, consider the speed at which the pool heats the water. If you go with a less powerful unit, it will take a longer time to heat the pool depending on the size of the pool.
Climate
The climate in your location would also influence your decision. If you live in the southern state, get a solar heater. The bright sun would be enough to power the unit. On the other hand, if you live on the northern side, a gas pool heater would be perfect. More power would be required to heat the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore the FAQs asked by users regarding propane pool heaters:
Q: What Size Propane Tank for Pool Heater?
A: The size of the propane tank must be 100 gallons for every 10,000 BTU of heater rating.
Q: How Much Propane Does Pool Heater Use?

A: An average propane tank heater burns 1 gallon of propane per hour per 100K BTUs. A pool heater for pools with 21,000 gallons capacity produces 400K BTUs, hence, burning 4 gallons of propane every hour.
Final Words
Don’t let a cold pool keep you from enjoying a nice swim. Pick the option that suits you well from the list of the best rated propane pool heaters shared above. Shop in the light of the buying guide above and go take your budget into account. You are then sure to make the right decision.
