Raypak 266,000 BTU Digital Gas Pool Heater vs AQUASTRONG HEX018 Pool Heat Pump

These are not really competitors. The Raypak is a large natural-gas heater built for in-ground pools and spas, with a copper heat exchanger, digital controls and a corrosion shield. The HEX018 is a small 120V heat pump for above-ground pools, and it can also chill water. Buy the Raypak for a big in-ground pool that needs fast heat and already has a gas line. Buy the HEX018 for a small pool where running a gas line is not practical and quiet, efficient operation matters more than speed. Owners rate the HEX018 higher, but the Raypak's copper exchanger and higher output suit heavier, year-round use.

• Choose the Raypak if you have a natural gas hookup, an in-ground pool or spa up to about 25,000 gallons, and you want fast heat and a copper exchanger built for heavy use.
• Choose the HEX018 if you have a small above-ground pool, only a standard 120V outlet, and you want quiet, efficient heating plus the option to cool the water.