Looking for the best natural gas pool heater? Enjoy warm swims year-round with efficient heating solutions for your inground pool!
When it comes to maintaining a comfortable swimming environment, a natural gas pool heater is a professional choice. The Hayward W3H150FDN offers 150,000 BTUs of power, ensuring quick heating for your inground pool and spa. Similarly, the Raypak 105,000 BTU heater delivers reliable performance, while the Raypak 206,000 BTU model features digital electronic ignition for effortless operation.
These heaters are perfect for various use cases, such as extending your swimming season or heating your spa. Their versatile designs and efficient heating capabilities make them ideal for any backyard oasis.
In this review, we will delve into the features and benefits of these top natural gas pool heaters. You’ll learn how to choose the right model for your needs and enjoy the perfect swimming experience.


Hayward Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Heater
In a market flooded with pool heaters, the Hayward W3H150FDN Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater stands out by offering a blend of efficiency, durability, and user-friendly design. This heater is engineered for in-ground pools and spas, making it a top choice for homeowners seeking reliable performance.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the Pentair MasterTemp, making installation and maintenance significantly easier.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the Jandy JXi, which may not suit every aesthetic preference.
With its durable cupro nickel heat exchanger, the Hayward heater provides exceptional protection against corrosion, a common issue in pool heaters, especially in areas with unbalanced water chemistry. Its industry-leading hydraulic design not only reduces circulation pump run time but also leads to substantial energy savings over time. The front-panel-only access and intuitive control pad make it easy to operate and maintain, catering to both seasoned pool owners and newcomers alike.
This heater is particularly recommended if weight matters most, as it simplifies installation. However, if aesthetics are a priority, consider exploring alternatives like the Jandy JXi for more color choices. Overall, the Hayward W3H150FDN is a solid investment for those prioritizing performance and ease of use in their pool heating solution.
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Raypak 105,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater
In a market flooded with swimming pool heaters, the Raypak 105,000 BTU Swimming Pool and Spa Heater stands out by offering a reliable and efficient heating solution for both above ground and smaller in-ground pools. Its design focuses on easy installation and user-friendly operation, making it a popular choice among pool owners.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the Hayward H100ID2, making installation and maintenance easier.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the Pentair MasterTemp, which may not suit everyone’s aesthetic preferences.
This heater features a standard 120v 3-prong power cord, with the flexibility to convert to 220v if needed. The analog thermostat dial allows for precise temperature settings, ensuring your pool or spa remains at the perfect temperature. Built for durability, the Raypak is fully serviceable and designed for years of operation, which is a significant advantage over some competitors that may require more frequent replacements.
Pick this if weight matters most and you need a heater that is easy to handle and install. While it may not offer as many color choices as some competitors, its performance and reliability make it a strong contender in the natural gas pool heater market.
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Raypak 206,000 BTU Gas Pool Heater
In a market flooded with pool heaters, the Raypak 206,000 BTU Digital Electronic Ignition Natural Gas Pool Heater stands out by offering a blend of efficiency and compact design. This heater is built to withstand various weather conditions, making it a perfect solution for environments that require reliability and versatility.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than many competitors, such as the Hayward H400FDN, making installation and maintenance easier.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the Pentair MasterTemp, which may be a consideration for those prioritizing aesthetics.
Pick this if weight matters most, as its lightweight design facilitates easier handling and setup. The Raypak heater’s intermittent spark ignition pilot safety controls ensure that the pilot only activates when there is a call for heat, enhancing safety and efficiency. Additionally, its space-age material prevents residual heat retention, allowing for installation without costly metal heat sinks.
While it may not offer the same range of color choices as some competitors, the Raypak 206,000 BTU heater is an excellent option for those looking for a high-efficiency, compact natural gas pool heater for their inground pool. Its performance in diverse weather conditions makes it a reliable choice for pool owners.
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Raypak 336000 BTU Natural Gas Pool Heater
In a market flooded with natural gas pool heaters, the Raypak 009218 PR336AENC49 336000 BTU Natural Gas Pool Heater stands out by offering a combination of efficiency and durability. With its integral fin copper exchanger tube and corrosion-free polymer headers, this heater is designed to withstand the elements while providing consistent heating for your inground pool.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the Hayward H400FDN, making installation easier and less cumbersome.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the Pentair MasterTemp series, which may limit aesthetic choices for some pool owners.
Pick this if weight matters most in your installation process. The Raypak heater is particularly advantageous for those who prioritize a lightweight design without sacrificing performance. Its backlit LCD controls and self-diagnostic microprocessor controlled ignition ensure user-friendly operation and reliability. While it may not offer the variety of colors that some competitors do, its robust construction and efficient heating capabilities make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a comfortable pool temperature with minimal hassle.
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Pentair Natural Gas 125K Heater
In a market flooded with pool heaters, the Pentair EC-462024 Natural Gas 125K Heater stands out by offering high performance at an affordable price. With its impressive 82% energy efficiency, it leads the class in energy-saving technology, making it a smart choice for pool owners looking to minimize operating costs.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the Hayward H-Series, making installation and maintenance significantly easier.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the Jandy JXi, which may not appeal to those seeking a specific aesthetic for their pool area.
This heater is particularly well-suited for smaller bodies of water, including aboveground pools and spas, with its 1-1/2 inch plumbing connection. The pre-mixed combustion technology ensures an ultra-fast heat-up time, allowing you to enjoy your pool sooner. The easy-to-use digital display and controller make operation straightforward, even for those not particularly tech-savvy.
Pick this if weight matters most and you need a reliable heater that won’t break the bank. While it may not have the variety of colors that some competitors offer, its performance and efficiency make it a top contender in the natural gas pool heater market.
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Faq about natural gas pool heater for inground pool:
1: What is a natural gas pool heater?
A natural gas pool heater uses natural gas to heat the water in your inground pool, providing consistent and efficient warmth.
2: How does a natural gas pool heater work?
It burns natural gas to generate heat, which is then transferred to the pool water through a heat exchanger, warming the water as it circulates.
3: What are the benefits of using a natural gas pool heater?
Natural gas pool heaters heat water quickly, are cost-effective for large pools, and can maintain desired temperatures regardless of outdoor conditions.
4: Are natural gas pool heaters energy efficient?
Yes, they are generally energy efficient, especially for frequent use, as they heat water faster than electric heaters.
5: How much does it cost to operate a natural gas pool heater?
Operating costs vary based on gas prices and usage, but they are typically lower than electric heaters for larger pools.
6: Can I install a natural gas pool heater myself?
It is recommended to hire a professional for installation to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.
7: What maintenance does a natural gas pool heater require?
Regular maintenance includes checking gas connections, cleaning filters, and ensuring the heater is functioning properly to extend its lifespan.
Conclusion
The Hayward Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Heater exemplifies efficiency and innovation, delivering rapid heating capabilities while maintaining energy conservation. Its advanced technology ensures optimal performance, making it a premier choice for discerning pool owners.
Conversely, the Raypak 105,000 BTU Natural Gas Heater offers a robust alternative, renowned for its durability and user-friendly features. This model combines reliability with cost-effectiveness, positioning it as an excellent option for those seeking a dependable heating solution for their inground pool.





