Best Solar Pool Heaters of 2026

Toby Butcher Avatar
Toby Butcher
Last Updated: 5 Feb 2026

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Solar pool heaters are an energy-efficient and eco-friendly way to heat your swimming pool. These heaters use the sun's energy to heat the water, eliminating the need for electricity or gas. They are easy to install and operate, and can extend your swimming season by several months. Solar pool heaters come in different sizes and designs to fit various pool types and sizes. They are also durable and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective option in the long run. Overall, solar pool heaters are an excellent choice for anyone looking to reduce their energy consumption and enjoy a warm pool all year round.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Bestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad Cover #TOP 1
Bestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Premier Blue Solar Pod Heater for Pools Cover #TOP 2
Premier Blue Solar Pod Heater for Pools
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Arebos Solar Collector Pool Heater 300x66 cm Cover #TOP 3
Arebos Solar Collector Pool Heater 300x66 cm
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 5 Solar Pool Heaters

#TOP 1

Bestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad

58423
Black
1.10m x 1.71m
Bestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad Cover
Bestway | Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad

The Bestway Pool Heating Pad offers an eco-friendly way to warm your above ground pool using solar energy. It is easy to use, featuring two hose outlets that connect to your filter pump and pool, ensuring clean water circulates through the pad. This design allows the pad to absorb solar heat, resulting in a gradual increase in water temperature. Additionally, it can raise your pool temperature by 3-5ºC depending on weather conditions, providing you with a more comfortable swimming experience.

What We Like
Energy-efficient solar heating
Easy to set up and use
Gradual temperature increase
Compatible with various filter pumps
#TOP 2

Premier Blue Solar Pod Heater for Pools

PBPOD1
Premier Blue Solar Pod Heater for Pools Cover
Premier Blue Solar Pod Heater for Swimming Pools

The Premier Blue Solar Heater is an efficient solution for heating your swimming pool. Made from durable polycarbonate, it offers longevity and resistance to the elements. With a 32/38 mm hose tail connection, you can easily attach it to your existing setup, ensuring a hassle-free installation. Its sleek black colour not only looks great but also enhances heat absorption, keeping your pool warm and inviting. This product is designed to enhance your swimming experience, allowing you to enjoy your pool for longer periods throughout the season.

What We Like
Durable polycarbonate material
Easy hose tail connection
Sleek black colour
Efficient heat absorption
Extends swimming season
#TOP 3

Arebos Solar Collector Pool Heater 300x66 cm

AR-HE-SH300 NEW
Arebos Solar Collector Pool Heater 300x66 cm Cover
Arebos solar heating solar collector pool heating | 300x66 cm | UV-resistant plastic | Black

The Arebos Solar Heater is designed for easy installation and use, allowing you to heat your swimming pool water quickly. It promotes an environmentally friendly approach by harnessing solar energy, which means you can enjoy a warm pool without the extra electricity costs. This solar heater extends your outdoor swimming season, ensuring a pleasant water temperature for your enjoyment. With the included bypass set, you have everything you need to get started hassle-free.

What We Like
Easy installation and use
Eco-friendly solar energy
No extra electricity costs
Prolongs swimming season
Includes bypass set
#TOP 4

Steinbach Compact Solar Panel for Pools

Steinbach
00-49123
black
600x70 cm
Steinbach Compact Solar Panel for Pools Cover
Steinbach Compact Solar Panel - 049123 LDPE Collectors for Pools up to 20,000 l - Also Suitable for Salt Water - 600 x 700 cm

The Steinbach Solar Panel is an ideal solution for heating above ground pools with a maximum water content of 20,000 litres. Measuring 6.0 x 0.7 m, it is designed to withstand a maximum pressure of 1 bar at 20°C, ensuring durability and reliability. With a water flow rate of at least 2,000 litres per hour, you can enjoy consistent heating. For enhanced efficiency, you can connect multiple panels in series, allowing for greater heat output for your pool.

What We Like
Efficient heating for large pools
Durable and pressure-resistant design
Flexible connection options
Suitable for saltwater pools
#TOP 5

Hayward GL-235 AquaSolar Pool Temperature Controller

Hayward
GL-235
Hayward GL-235 AquaSolar Pool Temperature Controller Cover
Hayward GL-235 AquaSolar Pool Solar Temperature Controller

The Hayward GL-235 Controller is designed to help you get the most from your solar pool heating system. It automatically maximises solar heat collection, meaning your pool warms efficiently using natural energy. The precise, easy-to-read calibrated temperature setting allows you to set your preferred pool temperature with confidence and ease. Its electronics are housed in a UV-protected, locking weatherproof enclosure, ensuring durability and protection against the elements. Additionally, LED indicators clearly show the system's operational status, so you can quickly see how your pool heating is performing.

What We Like
Maximises solar heat collection
Accurate temperature control
Weatherproof UV-protected casing
Clear LED status indicators
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our solar pool heater research, we found 35 solar pool heater products and shortlisted 5 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,657 customer reviews through our big data system to write the solar pool heaters list. We found that most customers choose solar pool heaters with an average price of £144.17.

The solar pool heaters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of solar pool heaters, including Bestway, Premier Blue, Arebos, Steinbach, Hayward.

Written by
Toby Butcher Avatar

Toby Butcher is a Horticulturist, and he earned his title as a Master Gardener in 2016. Toby has acquired a 25-year experience as a home gardener planting, designing, grooming vegetables and flowers. He is the leader of a plant group in Durham. Toby owns a blog where he publishes articles on growing and growing your flowers at home, in a vase, or in a garden.