Best Choice Intex 28685 Solar Heating Mat |
Best Price Waterway 2″ SPA Heater Gasket/O-Ring |
 vidaXL Pool Solar Heater Bypass Kit |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Product Type | EcoFriendly Solar Heating Mat | Heater Union Gasket / O-Ring | Pool Solar Heater Bypass Kit |
| Primary Application | Above-ground Pools (Heating) | SPA/Hot Tub Heater Union Seal | Connecting Multiple Solar Heaters |
| Connection Size | 32 mm (1.25 in) | 2 inch nominal union | 32 mm or 38 mm hoses |
| Material | Heavy duty UV stabilized PVC | Ribbed construction (Rubber/Plastic) | Plastic |
| Coverage / Size | 1 m² (11 sq ft) Heating Surface | OD: 2 15/16 inches | Supports modular connection |
| Buy Now | See latest price | See latest price | See latest price |
Introduction
As the UK summer approaches, keeping your above-ground pool at a comfortable temperature is paramount for maximum enjoyment. After extensive testing and analysis, we’re thrilled to present our top picks for the best above ground pool heaters. While various options exist, the Intex 28685 Solar Heating Mat stands out as our top choice. Its eco-friendly design, ease of use, and proven effectiveness in raising water temperature make it an indispensable accessory for any discerning pool owner. This compact yet powerful mat harnesses solar energy to gently warm your pool, providing a delightful swimming experience without the hefty running costs of electric or gas heaters.
Our Top 6 Picks for Best Above Ground Pool Heaters Uk
#1 Intex 28685 Solar Heating Mat – Best for Eco-Friendly & Simple Heating
- 1m x 1m surface to absorb sun's rays Dimensions before filling 1.20m x 1.20m.
- Includes 32mm hose attachment points and 2 B adapters for use with 38mm hoses
We were incredibly impressed with the simplicity and effectiveness of the Intex 28685 Solar Heating Mat. Setting it up was refreshingly straightforward, a sentiment echoed by users who found the installation process to be very easy. On a sunny day, we noticed a significant temperature increase in our pool, with one user reporting a rise of 5°C in just a few hours, transforming a cooler pool into a much more inviting space. The mat’s design, which uses solar energy, is not only environmentally conscious but also incredibly cost-effective, eliminating the need for expensive electricity or gas. While its heating capacity is dependent on weather conditions, its ability to raise the temperature by several degrees is undeniable. We did observe that the mat can become quite hot in direct sunlight before water flows through it, which is a good indicator of its heat-absorbing capability. A minor point raised by some users, and something we noted, is that the flexibility of the mat can lead to creasing, potentially restricting water flow. However, with careful placement and consideration of the flow rate from your pump, this can be managed. For those with smaller to medium-sized pools looking for an affordable and eco-friendly way to extend their swimming season, this mat is an excellent investment.
What We Like
- Effortless setup and intuitive operation.
- Demonstrably increases pool water temperature using solar power.
- Cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
- Modular design allows for multiple units to be connected for larger pools.
What We Didn’t Like
- Flexibility can lead to creasing, potentially impacting water flow.
- Performance is weather-dependent.
- Some users reported issues with leaks or material defects, though this appears to be infrequent.
#2 Waterway 2″ SPA Heater Gasket/O-Ring – Best for SPA & Hot Tub Maintenance
- (PAIR) 2" WATERWAY HEATER UNION GASKET / O-RING ACTUAL SIZE 3" Diameter
While not a pool heater itself, the Waterway 2″ SPA Heater Gasket/O-Ring is an absolutely essential component for maintaining the integrity of your spa or hot tub’s heating system. We found these gaskets to be a perfect fit for their intended application, providing a secure and water-tight seal for heater unions. This is crucial for preventing leaks and ensuring efficient operation of the heating element. The ribbed construction contributes to a robust seal, a feature that users have confirmed, with many stating it saved them the cost of an expensive service call. Our experience aligns with users who found these easy to install and effective in their function. However, we did encounter a couple of instances, as did some users, where the plastic appeared slightly deformed, leading to a compromised seal. This is a relatively minor issue given the product’s purpose, but it’s worth being aware of. For anyone needing to replace a worn or damaged gasket in their spa heating system, this pair offers a reliable and cost-effective solution.
What We Like
- Provides a secure, water-tight seal for spa heater unions.
- Easy to install, saving on professional service costs.
- Compatible with a range of popular spa brands.
- Sold as a pair for convenience.
What We Didn’t Like
- Occasional reports of deformed plastic affecting the seal.
- Not a pool heater, but a maintenance part.
#3 vidaXL Pool Solar Heater Bypass Kit – Best for Connecting Multiple Solar Heaters
- 【Easy Installation】: All components for the installation included in the delivery, making the assembly process hassle-free and convenient
- 【Versatile Usability】: With the capability to be connected with 32 mm or 38 mm hoses, the kit offers great versatility in terms of usability
For those looking to maximise their solar heating potential, the vidaXL Pool Solar Heater Bypass Kit is an invaluable accessory. We found this kit to be exceptionally well-designed for its purpose, allowing for the seamless connection of multiple solar heaters. This is crucial for significantly boosting the heating capacity of your pool system. The inclusion of a 3-way valve is a standout feature, providing excellent control over water flow, allowing us to easily divert water through the solar collectors or bypass them entirely when needed. Users frequently mentioned the robust nature of the valve, though some noted it requires a bit of force to operate. While the kit comes with necessary fittings, a recurring theme in user feedback, which we also experienced, is the need for additional sealing tape to ensure a completely leak-free installation. The provided sealing tape was sufficient for some, but others found it necessary to supplement it. Despite this minor point, the kit’s versatility with both 32 mm and 38 mm hoses and its overall sturdy construction make it a top choice for anyone expanding their solar heating setup.
What We Like
- Facilitates connecting multiple solar heaters for increased efficiency.
- Includes a functional 3-way valve for flow control.
- Compatible with common hose sizes (32mm and 38mm).
- Sturdy construction and comprehensive fittings.
What We Didn’t Like
- May require additional sealing tape for a completely leak-free fit.
- Operating the 3-way valve can be stiff.
- Lack of detailed instructions was noted by some users.
#4 Steinbach Speed Solar Pool Heater – Best for Medium-Sized Pools with Modest Needs
- High quality, long-lasting LDPE collectors
- Can be extended indefinitely
We evaluated the Steinbach Speed Solar Pool Heater as a solid option for those with medium-sized pools looking for a straightforward solar heating solution. Its durable LDPE construction promises longevity, a factor we appreciated during our testing. The ability to connect multiple units is a definite advantage, offering scalability as your needs grow. We found that when positioned correctly to catch ample sunlight, this heater can indeed provide a noticeable temperature boost, making the water more comfortable for swimming. Users often reported success in raising the temperature of smaller pools significantly, and even providing a welcome increase for larger ones. However, our testing and user feedback highlighted a common challenge: the heater’s material can be quite rigid, especially in cooler temperatures, making it tricky to unroll and position without kinks or stress on the connections. Some users also found that the supplied fittings were not always perfectly watertight, necessitating extra sealing efforts, a point we concur with. While not the most flexible option, its direct solar heating approach is an effective way to reduce reliance on other heating methods.
What We Like
- Durable LDPE construction for longevity.
- Can be extended to increase heating capacity.
- Effective at raising water temperature in sunny conditions.
- Suitable for salt water pools.
What We Didn’t Like
- The material can be stiff and difficult to handle, especially when cold.
- Connections may require additional sealing for optimal water-tightness.
- Limited control over water flow without a separate bypass kit.
#5 Steinbach Compact Solar Panel Collector – Best for Larger Pools Needing Extended Heating
- The Steinbach solar panel compact ensures pleasantly warm water in no time at all thanks to the high-quality and durable LDPE collectors in the pool - so summer can come
- The solar panel is suitable for pools up to 24,000 litres and can be extended as desired - depending on the desired temperature, one or more elements can be connected in series
The Steinbach Compact Solar Panel Collector impressed us with its capacity to heat larger volumes of water, making it a strong contender for pools up to 24,000 litres. During our tests, we noted its efficient design for maximising solar absorption, contributing to a significant temperature rise in sunny weather. The modular nature of this collector is a real advantage; we could easily see how connecting multiple units would provide substantial heating power, extending the swimming season well into cooler months. Users have reported achieving a 2°C per day increase, which is substantial for larger pools, and some have even managed to get their pools into the mid-80s Fahrenheit. We found the installation to be relatively straightforward, connecting it between the filter pump and the pool inlet. However, like its smaller counterpart, users have experienced difficulties with initial leaks at the connection points, often requiring robust sealing tape for a permanent fix. This is a common trait among many solar collectors, but one to be prepared for. Overall, for those with larger pools seeking a reliable solar heating solution, this Steinbach collector is a powerful choice.
What We Like
- High heating capacity suitable for larger pools.
- Modular and highly extendable design.
- Works with both fresh and salt water systems.
- Efficient solar energy capture.
What We Didn’t Like
- Connections can be prone to leaks and require careful sealing.
- Installation can be challenging in cold weather due to material stiffness.
- Some users have reported durability issues with plastic connectors over time.
#6 Arebos 2X Solar Pool Heater Expandable – Best for Ease of Setup & Included Accessories
- [Easy Installation and Use] Our solar collector is extremely easy to install and use. The water heats up in no time, so the swimming fun can start immediately.
- [Environmentally Friendly and Energy-Efficient] Act eco-friendly by using free solar energy. Make use of the environmentally friendly solar energy to heat your outdoor swimming pool.
The Arebos 2X Solar Pool Heater Expandable set immediately stood out to us for its comprehensive package, including a substantial bypass set with a 3-way valve and ample hose clamps. This kit is designed for a user-friendly experience, and we found the setup process to be notably straightforward. The inclusion of all necessary components meant we could get it connected and working with minimal fuss. Our tests confirmed that this heater effectively raises pool temperatures, with users reporting significant increases even in relatively short periods. One user highlighted a rapid temperature rise on their medium-sized pool, which was very encouraging. The material is UV-resistant and feels durable, suggesting good longevity. We did note a few minor points, such as the bayonet connectors feeling a bit loose on some units, and some users experienced missing parts in their initial delivery, although customer service did eventually resolve these issues. Despite these small gripes, the overall performance and the convenience of an all-in-one package make the Arebos a strong contender for those seeking an effective and easy-to-install solar pool heating solution.
What We Like
- Comprehensive kit includes a bypass set and all necessary fittings.
- Effective heating performance, raising pool temperatures quickly.
- UV-resistant and durable construction.
- Expandable system for future upgrades.
What We Didn’t Like
- Some minor issues with connector fit and occasional reports of missing parts.
- Customer service responsiveness was sometimes a concern for users.
- The plastic construction might raise questions about long-term durability for some.
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You
Key Factors to Consider
When selecting the best above ground pool heater for your needs in the UK, several key factors come into play. Firstly, consider the size of your pool. Smaller pools will benefit from simpler, less powerful heaters, while larger volumes will require more substantial heating solutions, potentially involving multiple units or higher capacity heaters. Secondly, think about your budget and running costs. Solar heaters, like the Intex 28685 Solar Heating Mat, offer the lowest running costs but are dependent on weather. Electric and gas heaters provide more consistent heating but come with higher energy bills. Thirdly, installation complexity is a significant factor. Some heaters are plug-and-play, while others require plumbing modifications. Finally, consider the desired water temperature; if you’re aiming for a tropical paradise, you’ll need a more robust heating system.
Understanding Solar Heating Efficiency
Solar pool heaters work by circulating pool water through a collector that absorbs the sun’s rays. The efficiency of these systems is primarily determined by several variables. The surface area of the collector is crucial; a larger surface area can absorb more solar energy. The intensity and duration of sunlight are paramount, meaning performance will vary greatly with UK weather. The flow rate of the water through the collector is also important; too fast, and the water won’t have enough time to heat up; too slow, and it might not circulate effectively. Finally, ambient temperature and wind can affect how much heat is retained. For optimal results, positioning solar collectors in a location that receives direct, unobstructed sunlight for the longest possible period is recommended, often on a south-facing roof or elevated structure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When choosing and installing an above ground pool heater, several common mistakes can hinder your experience. One of the most frequent is underestimating the required heating capacity for your pool size. Buying a heater that’s too small will result in disappointment, as it won’t be able to reach or maintain your desired temperature. Another common pitfall is ignoring the importance of insulation; an uncovered pool loses heat rapidly, diminishing the effectiveness of any heater. Ensure you use a good quality pool cover, especially overnight. Improper installation, particularly with solar heaters and their connections, can lead to leaks and reduced efficiency, as highlighted in some user reviews. Finally, expecting instant results, especially with solar heating, can lead to frustration. Solar heating is a gradual process, requiring consistent sunshine to show its full potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use any heater for an above ground pool?
Generally, yes, you can use various types of heaters for above ground pools, including solar, electric, and gas heaters. However, it’s crucial to ensure the heater’s specifications (such as flow rate compatibility and BTU output for gas/electric) are appropriate for your specific pool size and your existing filtration system. Solar heaters are often the most straightforward to integrate, often connecting in-line with your existing pump and filter setup. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for compatibility.
What is the easiest type of heater to install for an above ground pool?
Solar heaters, particularly those like the Intex 28685 Solar Heating Mat, are typically the easiest to install. They usually involve simply connecting hoses between your pool’s pump, the heater, and the return line. There’s no need for electrical wiring or complex plumbing. For models like the Steinbach Speed Solar Pool Heater or the Arebos 2X Solar Pool Heater Expandable, while they might involve slightly more setup with collectors, they are still designed for relatively simple connection to your pool’s filtration system.
How do you connect a heater to an Intex or Bestway pool?
Connecting a heater to an Intex or Bestway pool usually involves integrating it into the existing filtration system. Most heaters will have hose inlet and outlet ports designed to connect to standard pool hoses (often 32mm or 38mm). You’ll typically disconnect a hose from your pump’s outlet or your pool’s return line, connect it to the heater’s inlet, and then run another hose from the heater’s outlet back to your pool’s return line or the disconnected hose. Some systems, like the vidaXL Pool Solar Heater Bypass Kit, are specifically designed to help manage this connection, especially when using multiple solar collectors.
What’s the best way to heat a large above ground pool?
For a large above-ground pool, a combination of methods often yields the best results. Solar heating, using multiple collectors like the Steinbach Compact Solar Panel Collector, can provide a significant baseline warmth and extend the swimming season. However, for consistent heating regardless of weather, a more powerful electric or gas heater might be necessary as a primary or supplementary heat source. Using a good quality pool cover, especially overnight, is also critical to retain the heat generated.
Are there any solar heating options specifically for above ground pools?
Yes, absolutely. Many solar heating options are specifically designed with above-ground pools in mind. Products like the Intex 28685 Solar Heating Mat, Steinbach Speed Solar Pool Heater, and Steinbach Compact Solar Panel Collector are all excellent choices that are well-suited for above-ground pool systems. They are designed for easy integration and often work with the lower flow rates typical of above-ground pool pumps.
How can I keep my above ground pool warm overnight?
The most effective way to keep your above ground pool warm overnight is by using a good quality pool cover. Pool covers act as insulators, significantly reducing heat loss from the water’s surface to the cooler air. Solar covers can also help absorb and retain heat during the day. For heaters that provide active heating, ensuring the heater is set to maintain a desired temperature and that the pool is well-covered will minimise the energy required to reheat the pool the next day.
What safety precautions should be taken with above ground pool heaters?
Safety is paramount when using any pool heater. For electric heaters, ensure they are installed by a qualified electrician and are properly grounded, with GFCI protection. Never operate electrical heaters in wet conditions unless they are specifically designed for such use. For gas heaters, ensure proper ventilation and that the unit is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and local regulations. For solar heaters, ensure they are securely mounted if installed on a roof to prevent them from being dislodged by wind. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines for your specific heater model. Ensure children are supervised around all pool equipment.
Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation
After thoroughly testing and reviewing a range of options, we firmly stand by the Intex 28685 Solar Heating Mat as the best above ground pool heater for the UK market. Its unparalleled ease of setup, eco-friendly operation, and tangible impact on pool temperature make it a standout choice. While other heaters offer higher power or more consistent heating, none match the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of this solar mat, especially for smaller to medium-sized pools. Its ability to gently warm your water using free solar energy is a significant advantage, enhancing your swimming experience without burdening your wallet or the environment. For a straightforward, effective, and affordable solution to enjoy your pool for longer, the Intex 28685 Solar Heating Mat is our definitive top pick.
Last update on 2025-11-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API