Let’s think about whether there is at least one person who after a hard day’s work does not like to swim in warm water, relax and gain strength. These opportunities are provided by the pool. But given Canada’s climate, this pleasure is rare for many people in the central part of the country and almost exceptional for northerners.
Yes, the weather in Canada is definitely not hot, and the bathing season is coming to an end without even starting. Indeed, in many pools, even on warm days, the water does not heat above 70℉. And this is despite the fact that the World Health Organization claims that the minimum temperature for comfortable swimming is 78℉.
However, will we really allow such a trifle as the average temperature to interfere with our rest? We also believe that no, so we propose to solve this problem — using a pool heater.
Comparison Table: 5 Best Pool Heaters for Canada
 Hayward H300FDN Natural Gas Pool Heater Winner in the category: Record holder in heating speed | Characteristics Heater type: Natural gas; BTU/HR: 300,000; Width: 30"; Depth: 29½"; Height: 24; Indoor Vent Pipe Diameter: 8"; Gas Connection at Heater: ¾" Benefits Fast heating due to high power; Effective work in cold weather; Ease of controls; Minimal temperature loss during heating thanks to a system that eliminates the ingress of cold into the heater itself; Easy-to-read LED control panel Jump to the detailed review |
Hayward H250FDP Propane Pool Heater Winner in the category: The most durable heater | Characteristics Heater type: Propane; BTU/HR: 250,000; Width: 28"; Depth: 29½"; Height: 24; Indoor Vent Pipe Diameter: 6"; Gas Connection at Heater: ¾" Benefits The ideal ratio of heating speed and energy costs due to the average number of BTU; The heater is protected from intrusion saltwater or chemical reagents, so it is 60% less likely to become rusty; Easy-to-read LED control panel Jump to the detailed review |
Hayward 150FDP Propane Pool Heater Winner in the category: The most cost-effective heater | Characteristics Heater type: Propane BTU/HR: 150,000; Width: 21"; Depth: 29½"; Height: 24; Indoor Vent Pipe Diameter: 6" Gas Connection at Heater: ¾" Benefits Low energy consumption due to smooth heating technologies; Quiet operation; Easy-to-read LED control panel; Easy to install Jump to the detailed review |
 Togarhow Electric Water Heater Winner in the category: Best water temperature control | Characteristics Heater type: Electric; BTU/HR: 375; Width: 45"; Depth: 33.5"; Height: 10.5"; Input Voltage: AC 240V 50/60Hz; Capacity: Less than 1981 Gallon/ 7.5 CBM; Interface Diameter: 1.89 inch/48 mm Benefits Maximum adjustable and precise temperature due to setting the temperature to the nearest degree; Automatic water heating during cooling due to the intelligent temperature control system; Easy to Install Jump to the detailed review |
 Goplus Solar Dome Winner in the category: The most eco-friendly heater | Characteristics Heater type: Solar; Width: 57.15"; Depth: 57.15"; Height: 21.59"; Connector: 1.5-inch hoses; Length of long hose: 38.6"; Length of short hose: 14.5" Benefits No electricity or gas connections make the heater ecological; The most silent operation; Ease of operation; Easy install Jump to the detailed review |
How Did We Choose the Best Heaters in Canada?
Often in various reviews, we see stamped phrases that have nothing to do with real life. Therefore, in our analysis, we looked at all available pool heaters through the prism of the average Canadian consumer. That is found out what quality criteria are needed by the real user, and based on them we chose the 5 best models for each type of buyer.
- First of all, we looked at pool heaters of different types with the highest rating;
- We found 20 models which can work in the cool climate of Canada;
- Then we selected 8 models for a detailed review (excluded outdated ones or models with fewer reviews);
- After that, we analyzed more than 100 customer reviews;
This methodology helps us understand what is most important for pool heater users. We were able to highlight the best criteria for each model. After comparing our results, we listed the top 5 pool heaters for Canadians. You can see our calculation methodology in the picture below.
What to Pay Attention to When Choosing Pool Heaters in Canada
The following are the 3 most important factors to consider:
- The first factor should be the climate and the average temperature in your Canadian region. If you need to warm up the pool in the cold season or do it very quickly, then you will only fit a gas heater. For less complex tasks, such as maintaining the temperature in warm weather, or one-time heating of water in the cold season, an electric heater is better. And if in summer you only need to add a couple of degrees to the water temperature, then even a solar heater can handle it.
If you live in a very cold climate, we recommend considering the Hayward H300FDN Natural Gas Pool Heater (review). This model demonstrates very fast water heating in an incredibly short time, so it will cope with its task in any weather.
- The next important criterion is pool heaters’ power. If you regularly use the pool, it is logical that you want to constantly maintain the desired temperature in the pool. This can be achieved with a small heater with a low
The more water in your pool, the more powerful your heater should be, so be sure to consider the volume and area of your pool when choosing a heater.
Also don’t forget that if you use the pool cover regularly, you can use a smaller power heater than if you left the pool open.
Hayward H250FDP Propane Pool Heater (review) offers the most optimal power. This model maintains the perfect balance between heating speed and energy consumption. Thanks to this feature, you can very flexibly determine the using time of your pool.
- Also, do not forget about the cost. But, when it comes to prices for heaters, you need to remember not only the cost of the device itself but also the price of fuel for it.
Sometimes it is better to avoid using a certain type of heater altogether if fuel is expensive in your area. For example, gas heaters are quite expensive but are relatively cheap to operate. It all depends on the price of propane or gas in your Canadian area, which can vary from region to region.
As for electric heaters, they are much cheaper compared to gas models. But given the price of electricity, in the long run, your bills may make you angry. Statistics show that using electricity will cost you $250 a year more than using natural gas or propane. In addition, the heat capacity of electricity is less than that of gas, so heated water will cool faster.
Solar heaters are the cheapest option, as they consist of only a few parts. For example, the Goplus Solar Dome (review) costs almost 10 times less than most gas heaters. In addition, they are renewable energy sources, so in the process of using them, you do not need to spend any money.
We picked the best models based on these criteria and carried out a detailed review of each.
A detailed review of each model
Hayward H300FDN Natural Gas Pool Heater — record holder in heating speed
Record holder in heating speed
| Heater Fuel BTU/HR Width Depth | Natural gas 300,000 30″ 29½” |
Pros
- Fastest heating
- Effective work at any temperature
- The system that eliminates all outside weather variables
- Ease of controls
Cons
- Complicated installation; you will need the involvement of specialists from your gas distribution system
- Some units are not suitable for the Canadian gas system
If you plan to swim in the cold Canadian season, you will need a heater with maximum power. This configuration is offered by Hayward H300FDN Natural Gas Pool Heater. This heater can work in any cold because it is equipped with a system that eliminates all outside weather variables that can affect the heating performance. This feature prevents cooling of the heater core from the ambient temperature. So even at Christmas, you can relax in the warm pool.
You do not have to wait many hours until the water heats up. The high level of creates a very high rate of water heating. Hayward H250FDP (review) can also heat water quickly, but in very cold weather (at temperatures below 0℉) it will not cope with this task.
Many are worried about how environmentally friendly such a powerful heater is? Here we can say with confidence that the manufacturer has solved the problem of environmental damage by equipping this heater with the latest system of filtration of harmful substances. Therefore, you will not be involved in global warming.
Natural gas pressure varies by country. Unfortunately, due to the very high capacity, some heaters of this model are not compatible with the Canadian gas system, so before buying, always check whether a particular heater is designed for our country.
Hayward H250FDP Propane Pool Heater — the most durable heater
The most durable heater
| Heater Fuel BTU/HR Width Depth | Propane 250,000 28″ 29½” |
Pros
- Best balance of heating speed and costs of energy
- Robust cupro-nickel mechanism will serve you for many years
- Easy-to-read LED control panel
- Easy to install
Cons
- Over time, the case may corrode
- No additional functionality
If you plan to add a few months to the swimming season for many years, look for the Hayward H250FDP Propane Pool Heater. It is one of the most budget models of the entire Hayward H-line (which received Garfield’s Top Clover award for durability, quality, and ease of installation), and at the same time, is the most durable gas heater. This model has an average level of — 250,000. It’s the ideal ratio of heating speed and energy consumption. This feature distinguishes this heater from all competitors, as it allows you to keep the water warm for a long time, during relatively fast heating the whole pool for 8-10 hours. For comparison, after heating the water Hayward H300FDN (review) the water will cool 1.5 times faster.
A common problem when using this heater is the corrosion of its case. To prevent this nuisance, we recommend installing this heater indoors, for example, in the nearest building by the pool. If this is not possible you can also cover the heater with special protective cases.
Although it is a very reliable heater, keep in mind that its technological components are designed for continuous and uninterrupted operation, so frequent switching and rearrangements can disable the heater. If your heater will operate in a moderation regime, it will last you for many years.
Hayward 150FDP Propane Pool Heater — the most cost-effective heater
The most cost-effective heater
| Heater Fuel BTU/HR Width Depth | Propane 150,000; 21″ 29½” |
Pros
- Lowest energy consumption that will save you money on bills
- Quiet operation
- Easy-to-read LED control panel
Cons
- Slow heating
- High price
If you want to have hot water in the pool at the same time and do not want to spend a lot of money on energy, we recommend the Hayward 150FDP Propane Pool Heater.
Due to the lower BTU level, the water heating process is smoother, which prevents large energy emissions. This leads to significant savings costs for energy resources.
This model is designed specifically for the most economical use of fuel, its price is quite high. However, given the potential savings in the operation of the heater, it becomes obvious that this thing is worth it. By the way, thanks to such smooth heating this model works very quietly.
Unfortunately, this model will heat your pool 2 times slower than Hayward H300FDN (review), but if you have already heated the water, it will stay warm for a very long time. In principle, this heater can not even turn off, but simply reduce the temperature of heating. This will keep the water in your pool warm around the clock.
Togarhow Electric Water Heater — best water temperature control
Best water temperature control
| Power Input Voltage: Material Capacity | 11 KW AC 240V 50/60Hz Aluminum-coated Plate/Stainless Steel Tube Less than 1981 Gallon/ 7.5 CBM |
Pros
- Maximum adjustable and precise temperature
- Intelligent temperature sensor
- Easy to install
Cons
- High cost of energy
- Inefficiency at temperatures below 0°F
If you use your pool for medical purposes or your children swim in it, then you need the possibility of the most flexible temperature control. Togarhow Electric Water Heater offers such functionality.
This heater automatically monitors the temperature in the range you set. The big advantage of this heater in comparison with gas models is a fast change of temperature. You can heat water as fast as you need and cool it down. Such manipulations, however, can lead to quite high energy costs, but because this heater is designed for irregular use, they are quite easy to minimize.
Of course, it should be understood that this is not a sprint set of temperatures in the cold Canadian season, as in the Hayward H300FDN Natural Gas (review). However, as the experience of consumers shows, if you will even use this heater several times a week, its available capabilities are more than enough.
Goplus Solar Dome — the most eco-friendly heater
The most eco-friendly heater
| Connector Product weight Length of long hose Length of short hose | 1.5-inch hoses 11.2lbs 38.6″ 14.5″ |
Pros
- 100% environmental friendly
- Easiest operation
- Low price
Cons
- Slow heating
- Lack of additional functionality
If you are worried about the environment, live in a part of Canada with a temperate climate and want to raise the temperature in your pool by a few degrees, we recommend that you consider solar heaters. For example, Goplus Solar Dome.
Yes, you do not use it in the cold season and it will not raise the temperature a few tens of degrees per hour as Hayward H300FDN (review). Moreover, its performance will not even come close to Togarhow Electric Water Heater (review), which at long work will be able to raise the temperature in 2 times.
However, it is very easy to heat the water a little on a normal cloudy day, without releasing tons of harmful substances into the atmosphere. Agree that for a price several times lower than gas and electric heaters, this is a very attractive offer. Moreover, it is the most mobile heater. It will take you a maximum of 15 minutes to install it. Therefore, if necessary, it can be very easily rearranged and transported.
In general, if you sometimes want to raise the temperature in the pool for a little money, while getting a clear conscience that you are not harming the atmosphere, then buying a Goplus Solar Dome is the best option.
What Are the Types of Pool Heaters
As you may have already understood there are three different types of pool heaters that differ in power supply. These include gas, solar and electric heaters.
If you live in a very cold climate (northern part of Canada), a gas heater is the best option for you.
Only gas heaters can significantly heat the pool at temperatures below zero, as the heat capacity of natural gas and propane is much higher than electricity and solar energy.
In addition, they are ideal for rapid pool heating. For example, Hayward H300FDN Natural Gas Pool Heater (review), in just a few hours can completely warm up your pool. Also, unlike electric and solar pool heaters, gas heaters can maintain any desired temperature regardless of weather or climate. Thanks to Hayward 150FDP Propane Pool Heater (review) you will be able to maintain the warm water in the pool around the clock without spending a lot of money on resources.
Pros
- Work at low temperatures
- Fast heating
- High power
- Durability
- Wide range of models
Cons
- High price
- Complicated installation
- Care should be taken during exploitation, as natural gas and propane are explosive substances
Electric heaters
There are two types of electric heaters.
If you want to quickly raise the temperature from time to time by several points, for example for evening swimming or relaxing in cloudy weather, a very attractive option is the first type of electric heater.
This is an appliance that uses electricity to heat water as it passes through the device. They are not so effective in cold climates, because the maximum heating temperature in them is much lower than that of their gas counterparts but if you live near the southern border of Canada, their capacity will be enough.
If there are children swimming in your pool, or medical procedures are being carried out, you will need a very flexible calibration of the water temperature. This functionality is offered by the second type of electric heater.
This is an electric collector based on a heat pump. In terms of power, these heaters are almost equal to the previous ones, but this type allows you to calibrate the temperature to the nearest each degree.
For example, Togarhow Electric Water Heater (review) has a built-in intelligent temperature control system.
Pros
- Flexible calibration of temperature
- High level of maximum heating temperature
- Easy installation
- Easy operation
Cons
- High cost of energy
- Inefficiency in the cold season
Solar heaters
If you are worried about the environment, live in a part of the country with a temperate climate, and want to raise the temperature in your pool by a few degrees, we recommend that you consider solar heaters.
These heaters are not very effective in Canadian climates, as they rely on thermal energy from the sun. However, it can be effectively used in the warmer months to accelerate the natural heating of the pool.
For example, Goplus Solar Dome (review) allows you to raise the temperature of your pool on a sunny day by 10°F while maintaining a clear conscience that you are not involved in global warming.
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Low price
- Easy installation
Cons
- Slow heating
- Lack of additional functionality
Installation of Your Heater
The pool heater is a complex technological device, so its installation requires special knowledge.
Place of installation
- As this device requires a large number of connections to the water and power supply system to install the pool heater, it is necessary to have enough free space near the pool to connect all these communications to the heater.
- Gas pool heaters are usually located near the pool or in neighbouring buildings, as they need to be connected to a water pump and filtration system.
- Electric pool heaters are also installed near the pool and take up less space than gas ones.
- Unlike gas and electric heaters, portable solar pool heaters do not need to be connected to the energy communications system. They are simply placed in direct sunlight and plugged into a water filter.
Warnings
You will need the help of a qualified professional to install a gas and electric heater. In addition, the manufacturer’s warranty on the device expires if the service technician finds that the heater is installed incorrectly. As for solar heaters, they can be easily installed yourself, because it does not require work with explosive components.
Summary
If you have the pool, there is a 99% chance that you will not be able to use it as often as you would like. Many people are frightened by this moment even from the purchase of the pool itself. However, there is a great way to solve this problem is to buy a pool heater.
You can keep the water warm day and night, heat water for wellness treatments, events, and Canadian winter swimming. Moreover using this device you can not only calibrate the water temperature but even extend the bathing season for several months.
When buying a heater, first determine your basic needs. What is the climate in your area, the size of your pool, and how often do you plan to use the heater? Then, depending on your needs, choose a heater of a certain fuel type from our rating.
Our top 5 pool heaters for Canada are based on these criteria and include the following models:
Hayward H300FDN Natural Gas Pool Heater Winner in the category: Record holder in heating speed | Togarhow Electric Water Heater Winner in the category: Best water temperature control | Hayward H250FDP Propane Pool Heater Winner in the category: The most durable heater | Goplus Solar Dome Winner in the category: The most eco-friendly heater | Hayward 150FDP Propane Pool Heater Winner in the category: The most cost-effective heater |
FAQ
🏆 How much does a heater for a pool cost?
Prices for pool heaters range from a few hundred dollars for a solar heater like the Goplus Solar Dome, to several thousand dollars for powerful gas heaters like the Hayward H400FDN.
👋 How to install a pool heater?
You will need the help of a qualified professional to install a gas and electric heater. As for solar heaters, they can be easily installed yourself.
🙂 Do solar pool heaters work in Canada?
Solar pool heaters are not very effective in Canadian climates. However, it can be effectively used in the warmer months to accelerate the natural heating of the pool.
😊 What is the best gas pool heater 2022?
The best gas pool heater in 2022 is the Hayward H250FDP. It provides not only rapid heating but also keeps the water warm for a long time. More information about this and other models can be found in our article.
😆 Which heater heats the pool the fastest?
Hayward H400FDN has the highest power and provides the fastest water heating. This heater will heat your pool in just a couple of hours. You can find more information about this model in our article.
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