How much will it actually warm my pool?

Intex claims 5-9°F, but that assumes full sun, warm air and steady flow. Many owners see only a few degrees, and some see none on cool or cloudy days.

Will it work with my pump?

It is rated for pumps up to 1/3 HP or under 2,000 gal/hr. A stronger pump pushes water through too fast to pick up much heat and may stress the mat.

What size pool is it for?

Intex rates it for above-ground pools up to 8,000 gallons and about 11 sq ft of surface. Larger pools would need several mats, and gains would still be small.

Does it fit 1.5-inch hoses?

Yes. The box includes adapters A and B for 1.5 in. connections, plus a 1.25 in. hose and a bypass valve for standard Intex fittings.

Can I leave it out all season?

It is meant for outdoor use, but owners who leave it down report faster wear. Draining and storing it over winter reduces cracking at the fittings.

Is it a replacement for a pool heat pump?

No. A heat pump or gas heater raises water temperature reliably regardless of weather; this mat only adds a small solar boost.

What do buyers say about the Intex Solar Water Heater Mat for Above Ground Pools?

Rated 2.7 out of 5 from 113 ratings.

Where can I buy the Intex Solar Water Heater Mat for Above Ground Pools?

7 stores we checked sell it, including Blain's Farm & Fleet, Ace Hardware, Best Buy, Home Depot, Target.

Intex Solar Water Heater Mat for Above Ground Pools

Q: Where is the Intex Solar Water Heater Mat for Above Ground Pools cheapest?

At Blain's Farm & Fleet, for $29.99, 21% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

Best price now

$29.99at Blain's Farm & FleetChecked Nov 7

21% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 7 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when. Store links may earn us a commission. Price via Klarna.

Visit Blain's Farm & Fleet

What reviewers say

2.7 / 5113 ratings

Ratings average 2.7 out of 5, and the pattern in owner feedback is disappointment with actual warming versus the advertised 5-9°F. Some report a small gain in full sun; many say the mat cracked or leaked within a season or two.

What people mention

Heat gainCriticisedOwners say the water warms only slightly, often less than the advertised 5-9°F.
Build qualityCriticisedSeveral report the mat cracking or splitting at the hose connections after a season.
SetupPraisedBuyers find it quick to hook up to Intex pumps with the included adapters and bypass valve.
Flow restrictionMixedSome notice weaker circulation once the mat is inline; the bypass valve helps but does not remove it.
Sun dependenceMixedIt works on hot, clear days but does little in shade, cloud or cool air.

About the Intex Solar Water Heater Mat for Above Ground Pools

This solar water heater mat is designed to raise the temperature of above ground pool water by approximately 5 to 9 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on weather conditions. The mat absorbs the sun's rays to warm the water.

It connects to the pool's filter pump with 1.25 in. hose attachment points. Adaptor A and adaptor B are included for 1.5 in. hose connections. A 1.25 in. diameter connecting hose and a bypass valve are also included.

The mat works with filter pumps up to 1/3 HP, or with a pump flow rate of less than 2,000 gal/hr. It is suitable for above ground pools up to 8,000 gal.

Brand

Intex

Temperature increase

Approx. 5-9°F, depending on weather

Pool type

Above ground pools up to 8,000 gal

Surface area

11 ft sq

Pump compatibility

Up to 1/3 HP or flow rate under 2,000 gal/hr

Hose attachment

1.25 in. attachment points