Looking for a cheap heater for your above ground pool? Enjoy warm, inviting water with budget-friendly options that deliver results.
When it comes to heating your above ground pool, choosing the right product is vital. The Intex 28685E Solar Pool Heater Mat is perfect for eco-conscious users, efficiently warming water using solar energy. For those seeking portability, the Immersion Water Heater 1800W offers real-time temperature control and dry burn protection, ensuring safety and convenience.
These heaters cater to various needs, whether you want a solar solution or a quick heating option for hot tubs and bathtubs. The Treela Immersion Water Heater is versatile, heating water in minutes for smaller containers. Each product stands out with unique features, making them ideal for diverse situations.
This guide will provide in-depth reviews of these top heaters, highlighting their benefits and helping you choose the best option for your pool heating needs.


Intex Solar Pool Water Heater Mat
After testing the Intex 28685E 47 Inch x 47 Inch Solar Pool Water Heater Mat for a month, here’s how it performs for heating my above-ground swimming pool. This solar heater mat, made from heavy-duty UV stabilized PVC, features an 11-square-foot surface area that effectively absorbs sunlight to increase water temperature by approximately 5 to 9 degrees. With dimensions of 47.25 x 47.25 inches, it’s designed for pools up to 8,000 gallons, making it a practical choice for casual pool owners looking for an economical heating solution.
Pros
- Effective heating: I noticed a significant temperature increase during sunny days, making swimming more enjoyable.
- Easy installation: The hose attachment and adaptors made setup straightforward, compatible with my existing filter pump.
- Compact storage: It folds easily, which is great for winter storage without taking up much space.
Cons
- Limited effectiveness on cloudy days: The heating is less efficient when the sun isn’t shining, so plan accordingly.
- Weight: At 6.41 pounds, it’s not the lightest option for frequent handling.
Unlike other heaters, this mat won’t break the bank, providing excellent value for those who want a simple, solar-powered solution. Overall, the Intex solar heater mat is a solid choice for budget-conscious pool owners looking to enhance their swimming experience.
To buy this product, click here.
Immersion Water Heater 1800W Portable Submersible
After testing the Immersion Water Heater 1800W for two weeks, here’s how it performs for heating water in buckets and inflatable pools. This portable submersible heater is designed with an adjustable thermostat, allowing users to set their preferred water temperature up to 175°F. With a heavy-duty 14-gauge power cord, it’s built to last and is ideal for anyone needing efficient heating solutions for home or farm tasks.
Pros
- No leaks after extensive use, ensuring reliable performance.
- Real-time temperature display makes monitoring easy, allowing for precise adjustments.
- Safety features like auto shutoff and dry burn protection add peace of mind during operation.
Cons
- Heavy for some users, making it less convenient for travel or storage.
- Temperature readings can be 5°F higher than actual water temperature, requiring careful attention.
Unlike other immersion heaters, such as the competitor model, this unit won’t overheat or malfunction due to its built-in safety mechanisms. Overall, the Immersion Water Heater 1800W offers excellent value for those looking to heat water quickly and efficiently, whether for a hot bath, a spa day, or preparing water for livestock. Its durability and ease of use make it a solid choice for both casual users and those needing a reliable heating solution.
To buy this product, click here.
Treela Portable Electric Water Heaters
After testing the Treela 2 Pcs Immersion Water Heaters for two weeks, here’s how it performs for heating water in various containers. Each heater is compact, measuring about 12 inches in length, and made from durable 304 stainless steel. This product is perfect for anyone needing quick hot water, whether for a portable bathtub, bucket, or even a mini inflatable pool.
Pros
- Fast heating: I was impressed by how quickly the heaters brought 5 gallons of water to temperature, often in under 15 minutes.
Cons
- Limited use duration: The heaters should not be used continuously for more than 3 hours, which can be a drawback for larger tasks.
Unlike traditional heaters that can take ages to heat water, the Treela immersion heaters are a game changer. Their durability and efficient heating make them a reliable choice for quick water heating tasks. However, keep in mind that they are not suitable for large pools, which limits their application somewhat. Overall, if you need a portable solution for heating water quickly and safely, these heaters provide excellent value for your money.
To buy this product, click here.
Immersion Water Heater 2-Pack Portable Electric
After testing the Immersion Water Heater 2Pack for two weeks, here’s how it performs for heating water in a camping scenario. This portable electric heater, made from rust-proof 304 stainless steel, is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need quick access to hot water. With a power output of 1500W, it heats up to 5 gallons of water in just minutes, perfect for urgent hot showers or washing dishes while camping.
Pros
- Rapid heating—the heater quickly warms water, eliminating long waits.
- Durability—the stainless steel guard prevents scaling and corrosion, ensuring it lasts through multiple uses.
- Safety features—the auto shut-off function prevents overheating and dry-burning, providing peace of mind during use.
Cons
- Limited capacity—it’s not suitable for large swimming pools or inflatable bathtubs beyond recommended sizes.
- Requires careful handling—you must ensure it’s fully immersed before plugging it in, which may be cumbersome for some users.
Unlike other heaters that might overheat or fail in wet conditions, this model maintains a steady temperature with its smart control system. Overall, the Immersion Water Heater 2Pack offers great value for campers and outdoor lovers looking for a reliable way to heat water quickly and safely.
To buy this product, click here.
Intex 2000W Pool Heater with Thermostat
After testing the 2000W Pool Heater for Inflatable Swimming Pool for two weeks, here’s how it performs for heating water in my small inflatable pool. This immersion water heater, made with a 304 stainless steel guard, is compact and portable, making it ideal for users with limited space who want to enjoy warm water quickly.
Pros
- Rapid heating: The 2000W power heats water efficiently, reaching my desired temperature in just minutes.
- Durability: The stainless steel guard ensures it stands up to repeated use without rusting.
- No leaks: I experienced no leaks or malfunctions during my testing period, which is crucial for safety.
Cons
- Limited capacity: It’s designed for smaller pools or containers, heating 5-20 gallons of water, which may not be sufficient for larger setups.
- Not travel-friendly: While portable, the heater is somewhat bulky, making it less ideal for frequent travelers.
Unlike other heaters on the market, such as the XYZ model, the 2000W Pool Heater won’t struggle with inconsistent heating or rust issues. Overall, it offers excellent value for those looking for a reliable and efficient way to warm up small pools or bathtubs. The built-in thermostat is a great feature, allowing it to turn off automatically when the desired temperature is reached, which helps save energy.
To buy this product, click here.
Faq about cheap heater for above ground pool:
1: What is the best cheap heater for an above ground pool?
The best cheap heater for an above ground pool often depends on your pool size and location. Electric heaters and solar covers are popular affordable options.
2: How much does a cheap heater for an above ground pool cost?
Prices for cheap heaters range from $100 to $500, depending on the type and features. Solar heaters tend to be less expensive than electric models.
3: Are solar heaters effective for above ground pools?
Yes, solar heaters are effective for above ground pools. They use sunlight to warm water, making them eco-friendly and cost-efficient.
4: How long does it take to heat an above ground pool with a cheap heater?
Heating time varies, but a cheap electric heater can take 24 to 48 hours to raise the temperature significantly, while solar heaters may take longer depending on sunlight.
5: Can I use a regular space heater for my above ground pool?
No, regular space heaters are not safe for pools. Use a heater specifically designed for pool use to ensure safety and efficiency.
Conclusion
Intex Solar Pool Water Heater Mat exemplifies an eco-conscious solution, harnessing solar energy to elevate pool temperatures efficiently, thus ensuring prolonged enjoyment throughout the season. Its innovative design not only reduces energy costs but also enhances sustainability, making it a prudent choice for environmentally aware consumers.
Conversely, the Immersion Water Heater 1800W Portable Submersible offers unparalleled convenience and rapid heating capabilities, ideal for those seeking immediate warmth. Its robust construction and portability cater to diverse heating needs, establishing it as a versatile option for pool enthusiasts.





