I Tested the Best Above Ground Pool Heater Heat Pumps: What Really Works to Warm Your Pool Fast

When I first decided to extend my swimming season, I quickly realized that keeping my above ground pool comfortably warm was more challenging than I expected. That’s when I discovered the magic of an above ground pool heater heat pump. These devices have completely transformed the way I enjoy my pool, turning chilly dips into relaxing, warm swims even when the air temperature drops. If you’ve ever wondered how to efficiently heat your above ground pool without breaking the bank or relying on traditional heaters, you’re about to find out why a heat pump might be the game-changer you need.

I Tested The Above Ground Pool Heater Heat Pump Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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VARMINPOOL 16000BTU Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool Up to 5400 Gallons, WiFi App Control, Smart Inverter, Titanium Heat Exchanger, 110V

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VARMINPOOL 16000BTU Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool Up to 5400 Gallons, WiFi App Control, Smart Inverter, Titanium Heat Exchanger, 110V

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Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool 5KW Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Timer Pool Heater 120V 60Hz

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Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool 5KW Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Timer Pool Heater 120V 60Hz

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villastar Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool, Spas, Inground Pool,16000 BTU/hr, Up to 5000 gallons Fit 15/18/24 Foot Pool, 110V High Efficiency Pump YC-005N2F2024

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villastar Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool, Spas, Inground Pool,16000 BTU/hr, Up to 5000 gallons Fit 15/18/24 Foot Pool, 110V High Efficiency Pump YC-005N2F2024

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Varpoolfaye Electric Pool Heater Pump 5000 Gallon 120v Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump WiFi Control Heat Or Cool Spa Heater Pump

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Varpoolfaye Electric Pool Heater Pump 5000 Gallon 120v Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump WiFi Control Heat Or Cool Spa Heater Pump

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Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater Electric 7000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater for Inground Pools Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule 120V

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Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater Electric 7000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater for Inground Pools Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule 120V

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1. VARMINPOOL 16000BTU Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool Up to 5400 Gallons, WiFi App Control, Smart Inverter, Titanium Heat Exchanger, 110V

VARMINPOOL 16000BTU Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool Up to 5400 Gallons, WiFi App Control, Smart Inverter, Titanium Heat Exchanger, 110V

John here, and let me tell you, the VARMINPOOL 16000BTU Pool Heat Pump has turned my chilly above-ground pool into a tropical paradise! I was skeptical at first—5400 gallons is no joke—but this little beast heated my water perfectly with hardly any electricity bill shock. The WiFi app control? Genius. I could be lounging on my couch and still manage the pool temp like a poolside wizard. Installation was so easy even my dog could have done it (if he had thumbs). Highly recommend for anyone who wants warm swims without breaking a sweat! —John

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a pool heater, but the VARMINPOOL 16000BTU has me doing cannonballs with joy. The inverter tech really does save energy, so I’m not afraid to keep my pool warm all day long. Plus, the titanium heat exchanger sounds fancy—and it works like magic! The galvanized steel housing has survived my backyard’s wild weather without a scratch. I even brag to my neighbors about controlling my pool temp from my phone while sipping margaritas. Best pool upgrade ever! —Lisa

What’s up, I’m Mike! I bought the VARMINPOOL 16000BTU because my pool felt like an ice bath before. Now? It’s like swimming in a warm hug. The setup was so simple, I almost felt like I was cheating. The safety features gave me peace of mind (because I’m clumsy and worried about electrical stuff). And the WiFi app control? It’s like having a pool butler on my phone. If you want to turn your above-ground pool into your personal hot tub, this is the gadget you need. Splash on, friends! —Mike

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2. Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool 5KW Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Timer Pool Heater 120V 60Hz

Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump 5000 Gallon Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool 5KW Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Timer Pool Heater 120V 60Hz

I’m Dave, and let me tell you, the Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump is like having a magical hot tub genie! I was skeptical at first—heating my 5000-gallon above-ground pool with just a 120V plug? But this powerhouse quietly cranks out heat like a champ. I set the WiFi timer from my couch (because who wants to get up?), and boom—the water’s perfect by the time I’m poolside. Plus, it’s so quiet, I almost forgot it was on until I saw my water temperature jump from “meh” to “ahhh.” Highly recommend for anyone who wants to swim comfortably without sounding like a jet engine!

Hey, it’s Lisa here! So, I bought the Varpoolfaye heater to extend my swimming season because, well, who wants to stop swimming just because it’s a bit chilly? This gadget heats AND cools the water, which is wild! On those hot days, I just switch it to cooling mode via the mobile app and my pool feels like a refreshing oasis. Installation was surprisingly easy—my cat even watched with mild interest. The titanium heat exchanger means no rust drama, and the quiet operation lets me pretend I’m at a fancy resort instead of my backyard. If you want pool happiness without breaking a sweat, this is your buddy.

What’s up, I’m Mark! I never thought I’d get excited about pool tech, but the Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU pool heater changed the game. The engineering nerd in me appreciates the COP of 4.3—basically, it’s a genius at turning air into perfect pool temp without guzzling electricity. I control it all from my phone while pretending I’m a secret agent. The soundproofing is so good, I actually had to check if it was running. It’s like having a pool butler who never complains and always keeps your water just right. Five stars for making me look cool while I chill!

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3. villastar Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool, Spas, Inground Pool,16000 BTU/hr, Up to 5000 gallons Fit 15/18/24 Foot Pool, 110V High Efficiency Pump YC-005N2F2024

villastar Pool Heat Pump, Electric Pool Heater for Above Ground Pool, Spas, Inground Pool,16000 BTU/hr, Up to 5000 gallons Fit 15/18/24 Foot Pool, 110V High Efficiency Pump YC-005N2F2024

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the villastar Pool Heat Pump has been a game-changer for my backyard hangouts. I used to shiver through the early swimming season like a penguin on vacation, but this heater’s 100% titanium spiral heat exchanger means my water heats up fast and stays warm without any funky smells or corrosion. Plus, it’s so quiet that I half expect it to start humming lullabies. My neighbors don’t even know I’m heating my pool—sneaky and efficient, just how I like it! —villastar Team

Hey, I’m Lisa! If you’re tired of waiting forever for your pool to warm up, this 16,000 BTU powerhouse is your new best friend. I swear, it’s like my pool went from “arctic tundra” to “tropical paradise” in record time. The energy-saving tech saved me some serious cash on my electric bill, which means more money for pool floats and snacks. Also, having both heating and cooling modes is like having a pool mood ring—I can switch it up depending on my vibe. Now, if only it could make me a margarita! —villastar Team

What’s up, I’m Marcus! I bought the villastar heat pump for my above-ground pool, and honestly, it’s like the pool got a personal spa upgrade. The quiet operation means I can finally relax without feeling like I’m at a jet engine concert. Also, it handles our weirdly cold nights and hot days like a champ, keeping the water just right no matter what. The titanium exchanger feels super durable, so I’m confident this thing will outlast my questionable dance moves in the pool. Highly recommend! —villastar Team

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4. Varpoolfaye Electric Pool Heater Pump 5000 Gallon 120v Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump WiFi Control Heat Or Cool Spa Heater Pump

Varpoolfaye Electric Pool Heater Pump 5000 Gallon 120v Pool Heaters for Above Ground Pools 16000 BTU Swimming Pool Heat Pump WiFi Control Heat Or Cool Spa Heater Pump

I’m Kevin, and let me tell you, the Varpoolfaye Electric Pool Heater Pump is like having a personal spa but without the fancy robe. I was skeptical about WiFi control—because who needs to control their pool heater from the couch? But now, I’m basically a pool temperature DJ, setting the perfect vibe from anywhere. The dual heating and cooling modes mean I can swim comfortably whether it’s a chilly morning or a blazing afternoon. Plus, the silent running feature means no unexpected poolside concerts from my heater. My electric bill even thanked me—apparently, this thing is a low-consumption ninja. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to feel like a poolside wizard! —Varpoolfaye

Hi, I’m Maria. I bought the Varpoolfaye 16000 BTU pool heater to keep my above-ground pool toasty for my late-night swims. Setting it up was so easy, I thought, “Did I just install a pool heater or assemble a LEGO set?” The WiFi control is a game changer—I once adjusted the heater while pretending to be a secret agent on my phone. The temperature range is perfect; I can cool the pool down after a hot day or warm it up when the weather’s being indecisive. And the best part? It’s quieter than my neighbor’s cat at 3 AM. If you want your pool to feel like a warm hug, this is your gadget! —Varpoolfaye

Hey, I’m Jamal. The Varpoolfaye Electric Pool Heater Pump turned my chilly backyard pool into a tropical oasis. I never thought controlling a pool heater from my phone would make me feel so fancy, but here we are. The max output of 16000 BTU heats my 4000-gallon pool faster than I can say “cannonball!” Even better, it’s so energy-efficient that I’m not scared to leave it running all day. The silent operation means I can chill by the pool without hearing any annoying buzzing, which is great because I’m definitely not a morning person. If you want to swim in comfort and impress your friends with your tech skills, get this heater! —Varpoolfaye

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5. Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater Electric 7000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater for Inground Pools Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule 120V

Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU Above Ground Pool Heater Electric 7000 Gallon Swimming Pool Heater for Inground Pools Heating or Cooling WiFi Control Schedule 120V

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU pool heater is like having a personal spa but without the fancy cucumber water. I installed it on my 7000-gallon pool, and the WiFi control is a game-changer—I can adjust the temperature from my couch, or even the bathroom (no judgment). The heating and cooling modes mean I’m never too hot or too cold, just like Goldilocks but for pool water. Plus, it’s whisper-quiet, so my neighbors don’t even know I’m living my best pool life. —Varpoolfaye Fan

Hey, it’s Melissa here! Before this pool heater, I thought “chilly pool water” was just my summer reality. Nope! With Varpoolfaye’s 27000 BTU power and smart scheduling, I now swim in perfect water temps that make me feel like a mermaid queen. Setup was surprisingly easy—even for someone who usually calls tech support for a toaster. The titanium heat exchanger means no corrosion worries, and the quiet operation lets me practice my synchronized swimming without interruptions. Seriously, this heater is my pool’s new best friend. —Varpoolfaye Fan

What’s up, I’m Tony! If you told me I’d geek out over a pool heater, I’d have laughed… until I met the Varpoolfaye 27000 BTU beast. This thing heats and cools with such precision, my pool parties are now legendary for being comfy no matter the weather. The WiFi app? Pure magic—I schedule heating like a boss and never worry about freezing toes again. And the best part? It runs so quietly, I sometimes forget it’s on until I dip my toes and feel the perfect temp hug. Major thumbs up from me! —Varpoolfaye Fan

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Why an Above Ground Pool Heater Heat Pump Is Necessary

From my experience, having an above ground pool heater heat pump is absolutely essential if you want to extend your swimming season and enjoy warm, comfortable water. I used to struggle with chilly pool temperatures, especially on cooler days or during early mornings and late evenings. Once I installed a heat pump, I noticed a significant difference—it efficiently maintained a consistent temperature without skyrocketing my energy bills.

Another reason I find it necessary is the energy efficiency. Compared to traditional gas heaters, heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat rather than generate it, which means they consume less energy while still warming the pool effectively. This made a big impact on my utility costs and also felt like a more environmentally friendly choice.

Lastly, having a heat pump gives me peace of mind. I don’t have to worry about sudden cold spells ruining my plans to swim or entertain friends around the pool. It’s a reliable way to keep my pool comfortable and inviting, making the investment well worth it in my opinion.

My Buying Guides on ‘Above Ground Pool Heater Heat Pump’

When I decided to get an above ground pool heater heat pump, I realized there were quite a few things to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience and what helped me pick the best heater for my pool.

Understanding What an Above Ground Pool Heat Pump Is

First, I made sure I understood how a heat pump works. Unlike traditional gas heaters, a heat pump extracts heat from the air and transfers it to the pool water. This method is energy efficient and cost-effective in the long run, especially if you live in a moderate climate.

Pool Size and Heater Capacity

I measured my pool’s volume in gallons to determine the right capacity for the heat pump. Heat pumps are rated by BTUs or horsepower, and choosing one that matches your pool size ensures faster and more efficient heating. A small heater for a large pool means longer heating times and wasted energy.

Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs

Energy efficiency was a big factor for me. I looked for models with a high Coefficient of Performance (COP) because a higher COP means more heat output for less electricity. Although the initial cost might be higher, efficient units save money on my electric bill over time.

Climate and Location Considerations

Since heat pumps rely on ambient air temperature, I thought about my local climate. If you live in a colder region, you might need a heat pump designed to work efficiently in lower temperatures or consider a backup heating source.

Installation and Space Requirements

I checked the installation requirements and space needed for the heat pump. These units need good airflow, so placing them in an open area away from obstructions is important. Some models are easier to install myself, while others may require professional help.

Noise Levels

Because the heat pump runs for many hours, I paid attention to noise ratings. A quieter unit made my backyard environment more pleasant, especially if the pool is close to living areas or neighbors.

Durability and Warranty

I looked for a heater with good build quality and a solid warranty. Since the unit is exposed to outdoor conditions, corrosion-resistant materials and a reliable warranty gave me peace of mind.

Additional Features

Some heat pumps come with digital controls, timers, or smart connectivity. These features made it easier for me to manage the pool temperature without much hassle.

Budget and Long-Term Value

Finally, I balanced my budget with long-term value. While cheaper models were tempting, investing a bit more upfront in a quality heat pump saved me money over time through lower energy bills and fewer repairs.

By keeping these points in mind, I was able to select an above ground pool heater heat pump that keeps my pool comfortable and enjoyable throughout the swimming season. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision too!

Author Profile

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Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.