Choosing an above ground solar heater depends on pool size, installation space, and whether you prefer panel-style heaters or bubble solar covers. Below is a quick comparison of five relevant options selected for performance, durability, and installation flexibility.
| Product | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Goplus Solar Pool Heater Above Ground | Dome Coil Panel | Compact, expandable series connections |
| Toolsempire Solar Pool Heater | Dome Coil Panel | Flexible placement & foldable legs |
| FAFCO Baby Bear Solar Panel | Panel Mat | Space-saving, proven manufacturer |
| IRONMAX Solar Pool Heater | Roll-Up Panel | Portable, durable PE material |
| Sun2Solar Blue 24 ft Round Solar Cover (800 Series) | Bubble Solar Cover | Evaporation reduction and overnight heat retention |
Content Navigation
Goplus Solar Pool Heater Above Ground
The Goplus unit is a transparent dome style solar heater with a black coil designed to capture and retain solar heat. The manufacturer notes a typical pool temperature increase of 5.4–7.2°F under suitable conditions.
- Enhanced Solar Absorption: Black coil and dome maximize sunlight capture and reduce heat loss.
- Flexible & Space-Saving Design: Foldable legs allow angle adjustment for optimal exposure and compact storage.
- Versatile Connection Options: 90° rotatable hose connectors support series connection of up to three units and fit 1½” and 1¼” joints.
This model is aimed at consumers who want a modular system that can be positioned for best sun exposure and expanded by linking additional units.
Toolsempire Solar Pool Heater
The Toolsempire heater shares many design traits with other dome coil panels: a black coil inside a transparent dome plus foldable legs for angle adjustment. It emphasizes heat capture and the ability to connect multiple units.
Call 888-896-7031 for Free Local HVAC Quotes – Compare and Save Today!
- Efficient Solar Capture: Black coil transfers sunlight to pool water; dome retains thermal energy.
- Expandable For Great Heating: 90° rotatable connectors allow linking up to three heaters in series to increase heating power.
- Smart Space-Saving Design: Stable foldable legs permit repositioning and compact storage off-season.
Toolsempire is suitable for users who want the flexibility to scale heating capacity by adding extra modules and for those prioritizing easy repositioning.
FAFCO Baby Bear Solar Panel
FAFCO’s Baby Bear panel is a compact, space-saving mat-style solar heater designed specifically for above-ground pools. FAFCO highlights U.S. manufacturing and material quality.
- Effective Solar Heating: Panel mat configuration converts sunlight into usable heat for pool water circulation.
- Made In The USA: Manufactured by an established solar pool heater company with multiple patents.
- Top-Tier Quality: Constructed from durable polyolefins; inspected and tested for longevity.
This product is often selected by buyers prioritizing durability and manufacturer reputation, and those with limited roof or ground space for placement.
IRONMAX Solar Pool Heater
IRONMAX offers a roll-up panel heater constructed of durable PE material with a tube-grid design intended for efficient sunlight absorption. The manufacturer states heating capability for pools up to specific gallon capacities.
Call 888-896-7031 for Free Local HVAC Quotes – Compare and Save Today!
- Energy Efficiency And Warmth: Tube grid layout maximizes solar absorption; rated to heat a defined gallon capacity and deliver up to ~10.8°F increase in ideal conditions.
- Durable All-Weather PE Materials: Engineered to withstand a wide temperature range and outdoor rooftop exposure.
- Hassle-Free Setup: Roll-up portability, simple connection to pump, and recommended pump specifications for optimal flow.
IRONMAX is a practical choice when portability and rugged material performance are priorities, and when users plan seasonal storage or rooftop mounting.
Sun2Solar Blue 24 ft Round Pool Solar Cover | 800 Series
The Sun2Solar bubble blanket is a different approach: instead of a panel, this cover floats on the pool surface to trap heat and reduce evaporation. The 800 Series is targeted to raise water temperature substantially using solar energy.
- Free Solar Energy: Uses sunlight to increase water temperature; manufacturer cites up to ~15°F potential under ideal conditions.
- Traps Heat & Reduces Evaporation: Retains warmth overnight and minimizes water loss and chemical depletion.
- Conserves Water: Reduces evaporation by up to a large percentage, lowering top-offs and chemical adjustments.
Solar covers are often paired with solar panels or heaters for maximum efficiency, and they provide benefits beyond direct heating, notably evaporation control and heat retention.
Buying Guide: How To Choose An Above Ground Solar Heater
Selecting the right solar heating solution requires balancing pool volume, installation constraints, desired temperature increase, and maintenance preferences.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.
Type Of Solar Heater
- Panel/Mat Heaters: Mounted on roofs or racks; circulate pool water through black absorber mats or coils. Offer modular scalability and direct heat transfer.
- Dome/Coil Units: Enclosed domes with internal coils protect the absorber and can be angled for sun capture. Good for compact installations and easy storage.
- Bubble Solar Covers: Float on the pool and trap heat; best for heat retention and evaporation control rather than rapid heating alone.
- Backup Heat Pumps: Electric heat pumps (not purely solar) provide reliable year-round heating and can be combined with solar for efficiency gains.
Pool Size And Heating Goal
- Estimate your pool volume (gallons) and target temperature increase. Mat and panel capacities are often specified for a maximum gallon rating.
- Smaller above-ground pools may reach desired temperature with one or two panels or a solar cover, while larger pools might require multiple panels in series or a hybrid approach.
Placement, Orientation, And Sun Exposure
- Panels perform best when placed in full sun for most of the day. Rooftop or ground-mounted racks should face south in the U.S. for maximum exposure.
- Foldable legs and angle-adjustable domes allow optimization during seasonal sun angle changes.
Flow Rate And Pump Compatibility
- Check manufacturer recommendations for pump horsepower and flow rate. Solar panels often specify a maximum or suggested GPM range for optimal heat transfer.
- Excessive pressure can damage some roll-up panels; ensure your pump matches the product’s requirements.
Durability And Material
- Look for UV-stabilized materials (polyolefins, PE) and weatherproof construction for long-term performance.
- Panels that roll or fold facilitate winter storage and reduce UV degradation when not in use.
Expandability And Modularity
- If you may increase heating capacity later, choose models that support in-series connections with rotatable hose fittings.
- Modular systems allow adding units incrementally based on seasonal needs or budget.
Installation And Maintenance
- Assess ease of hookup to existing plumbing and whether adapters are included. Some units are plug-and-play with standard 1¼” or 1½” fittings.
- Regular cleaning of absorber surfaces and dome covers maintains efficiency. Covers require periodic inspection for punctures.
Performance Expectations
- Solar heating performance depends heavily on local climate, sunlight hours, and ambient temperature. Manufacturers often provide ideal-condition temperature gains—real-world results can vary.
- Combining a solar cover with panels typically yields improved net temperature retention and reduced heating time.
Comparison Perspectives
- Cost vs. Performance: Bubble covers are cost-effective for heat retention and evaporation reduction; panels deliver more active heat transfer but may need additional modules for large pools.
- Portability vs. Permanence: Roll-up panels and dome units offer seasonal storage and portability; permanent rack-mounted panels are more stable and can be more efficient long-term.
- Maintenance Needs: Covers require surface cleaning and proper removal when storms threaten. Panels need periodic rinsing and inspection of hose fittings and seals.
Final Considerations Before Purchase
- Confirm compatibility with pool pump capacity and plumbing fittings.
- Measure available installation area (roof, deck, ground) and ensure unobstructed sunlight for peak hours.
- Decide whether you prefer a system you can scale later (modular panels) or a simpler solution like a solar cover for ongoing heat retention.