By Ethan BrooksUpdated November 2026
Shopping for a bestway pool heater solar setup means balancing pool size, pump flow, sun exposure and how much heat you actually need. This list compares six options from the Bestway and Intex lineups and a few third-party solar heating pads, so you can match a product to your pool. Each pick was evaluated on published specifications, brand reputation, compatibility with common above-ground filter pumps, and the patterns owners tend to describe in their feedback. We did not test these units ourselves; the notes below reflect manufacturer specs and general owner feedback.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallBestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating PadView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for small above-ground poolsSolar Cub with Starter KitView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for Intex pump ownersIntex28685E Solar Pool Water Heater MatView on Amazon - 4
Best for rectangular pools43"x67" Solar Powered Rectangular Pool Heating PadView on Amazon - 5
Best for a pool-side shower add-onBestway Flowclear SolarFlow 5 Gal Solar-Heated Outdoor ShowerView on Amazon - 6
Best budget cover optionBestway PE Solar Tarpaulin 356 cm RoundView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Before the comparison, a quick note on how to read it. Solar pool heating depends on three things: how much sun the collector receives, how fast water moves through it, and how much surface area is exposed to that sun. Passive heating pads and mats rely on your existing pump flow, so check that your pump can push water through the unit without excessive head loss. Solar covers and tarps mostly reduce evaporation and hold heat you already have, which is useful but will not raise the temperature much on its own. Our criteria were: compatibility with common pump flow rates, fit for a range of pool shapes, ease of setup, durability of materials, and how clearly the manufacturer states its specifications.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Bestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad | Overall use on most above-ground pools | Passive solar pad that works with existing pump flow |
| Solar Cub with Starter Kit | Small above-ground pools and tight spaces | Narrow 2 ft. x 20 ft. footprint with starter kit |
| Intex28685E Solar Pool Water Heater Mat | Intex filter pump owners | Designed for Intex pumps up to 2,000 GPH |
| 43″x67″ Solar Powered Rectangular Pool Heating Pad | Rectangular above-ground pools | Rectangular footprint that matches pool shape |
| Bestway Flowclear SolarFlow 5 Gal Solar-Heated Outdoor Shower | Pool-side rinsing and camping | 5-gallon solar-heated shower bag |
| Bestway PE Solar Tarpaulin 356 cm Round | Heat retention and evaporation control | Round solar cover for 356 cm pools |
Bestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad
Bestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad
Best for: Overall use on most above-ground pools
This is a general-purpose solar heating pad for owners who want a passive, low-maintenance way to add a few degrees to their pool water. It fits into a standard return or circulation line.
Key specs
- Passive solar pad that uses existing pump flow
- Designed for above-ground pool circulation
- Connects to standard pool hose fittings
Pros
- Simple setup with no electrical connections
- Works with existing filter pump
- Low maintenance once installed
Cons
- Heating depends heavily on sun exposure and weather
- Will not heat a large pool quickly
Bottom line: A sensible first choice for owners with a typical above-ground pool who want steady, passive warming during warm months.
Solar Cub with Starter Kit
Solar Cub with Starter Kit – Space Saving Universal Above Ground Pool Solar Heater – Easy Self-Installation (2 ft. x 20 ft.)
Best for: Small above-ground pools and tight spaces
This unit suits owners with limited yard space or a smaller pool who still want an add-on solar heater. The narrow 2 ft. x 20 ft. profile makes it easier to position along a fence line or deck edge.
Key specs
- Dimensions: 2 ft. x 20 ft.
- Includes a starter kit for setup
- Universal above-ground pool design
Pros
- Space-saving footprint
- Starter kit simplifies first installation
- Designed for self-installation
Cons
- Limited heating capacity for larger pools
- Output depends on pump flow and sun hours
Bottom line: Best for owners of smaller pools or those short on space who want a compact, self-install option.
Intex28685E Solar Pool Water Heater Mat
28685E – Energy-Efficient Heating – Designed to work with INTEX Filter Pumps up to 2,000 GPH, 47.25" x 47.25" INTEX Solar Pool Water Heater Mat for Above Ground Swimming Pools
Best for: Intex filter pump owners
This mat is designed to work with Intex filter pumps, so it is the natural choice for owners already running an Intex system. Its square 47.25″ x 47.25″ footprint suits compact pools.
Key specs
- Dimensions: 47.25″ x 47.25″
- Designed for Intex filter pumps up to 2,000 GPH
- Made for above-ground swimming pools
Pros
- Matched to Intex pump flow rates
- Compact square footprint
- Passive operation with no electrical hookup
Cons
- Compatibility is strongest with Intex pumps
- Output is modest compared with larger systems
Bottom line: The most straightforward pick for anyone already using an Intex filter pump at or below its rated flow.
43″x67″ Solar Powered Rectangular Pool Heating Pad
43"x67" Solar Powered Rectangular Pool Heating Pad for Above Ground Pool
Best for: Rectangular above-ground pools
A rectangular heating pad lays flat along a rectangular pool wall or deck edge more neatly than a square mat. This model suits owners who want more collector area in a shape that matches their pool.
Key specs
- Dimensions: 43″ x 67″
- Rectangular design for above-ground pools
Pros
- Shape fits rectangular and oval pool layouts
- Larger collector area than many compact mats
- Passive operation with existing pump
Cons
- Requires sun-facing placement to perform well
- Heating rate still depends on pump flow and climate
Bottom line: A good match for owners with rectangular above-ground pools who want more surface area than a compact mat provides.
Bestway Flowclear SolarFlow 5 Gal Solar-Heated Outdoor Shower
Bestway Flowclear SolarFlow 5 Gal Solar-Heated Outdoor Shower | Portable, Outside Shower Station Fixture | Great for Camping, Pool Area, Beach House
Best for: Pool-side rinsing and camping
This is not a pool heater in the strict sense. It is a solar-heated shower bag that warms water for rinsing off after swimming or camping. It belongs on this list for owners who want warm water near the pool area.
Key specs
- Capacity: 5 gallons
- Solar-heated outdoor shower design
- Portable shower station fixture
Pros
- Portable and easy to hang
- Useful for pool, beach and camping
- No electrical connection required
Cons
- Does not heat pool water
- Capacity is limited for longer showers
Bottom line: Suits owners who want a solar-warmed rinse station near the pool rather than a pool heating system.
Bestway PE Solar Tarpaulin 356 cm Round
Bestway PE Solar Tarpaulin 356 cm Round
Best for: Heat retention and evaporation control
A solar tarp floats on the water surface, absorbs sunlight, and reduces evaporation overnight. It works best as a complement to a heating pad rather than a standalone heater.
Key specs
- Round shape, 356 cm diameter
- Polyethylene (PE) solar tarpaulin
Pros
- Reduces evaporation and heat loss
- Low cost to add to an existing setup
- Simple to deploy and remove
Cons
- Only fits round pools of matching size
- Must be removed to use the pool and handled carefully
Bottom line: A budget-friendly way to hold heat in a round pool, most useful when paired with an active or passive heater.
Buying Guide
Check your pump flow rate
Passive bestway pool heater solar pads depend on water moving through them. Look up your pump’s GPH rating and check the product’s recommended flow range. A pad running on a pump that is too weak will heat slowly; one on an overpowered pump may create head loss that strains the motor.
Good picks for this: Intex28685E Solar Pool Water Heater Mat, Bestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad
Match the shape to your pool
Round, oval and rectangular pools suit different products. A rectangular pad lays flat along straight walls, while a round tarp needs a round pool of matching diameter. Measure your pool before buying anything.
Good picks for this: 43″x67″ Solar Powered Rectangular Pool Heating Pad, Bestway PE Solar Tarpaulin 356 cm Round
Size the collector to pool volume
A heating pad’s collector area should scale with your pool’s gallons and your target temperature rise. Small pads add only a few degrees over a season. For larger pools, consider stacking or combining units rather than relying on one small mat.
Good picks for this: Solar Cub with Starter Kit, Bestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad
Sun exposure and placement
Most solar heaters need several hours of direct sun. Place the unit where it gets unshaded sun during the warmest part of the day, and avoid spots shaded by trees or fences. Note that heat output drops on cloudy days.
Good picks for this: 43″x67″ Solar Powered Rectangular Pool Heating Pad, Solar Cub with Starter Kit
Durability and materials
Look for UV-resistant materials, since sun exposure degrades plastics over time. Check the manufacturer’s stated lifespan and whether replacement parts are available. Polyethylene covers are common and generally handle sun well when used seasonally.
Good picks for this: Bestway PE Solar Tarpaulin 356 cm Round, Intex28685E Solar Pool Water Heater Mat
Installation and fittings
Confirm the fittings match your pump plumbing before buying. Many pool owners find that a bypass valve makes it easier to switch the heater on and off without changing the main filter setting. Plan for a drain point if you need to winterize the system.
Good picks for this: Solar Cub with Starter Kit, Bestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad
Use case: heating versus extras
Decide whether you need pool heating or simply want warm water for rinsing and camping. Heating pads and mats change pool temperature gradually. Shower bags and tarps serve different purposes and should be judged by those needs.
Good picks for this: Bestway Flowclear SolarFlow 5 Gal Solar-Heated Outdoor Shower, Bestway PE Solar Tarpaulin 356 cm Round
FAQ
Can a bestway pool heater solar pad heat a pool to swimming temperature?
It depends on pool size, sun exposure, pump flow and climate. Passive pads typically raise water temperature by a few degrees over a warm period rather than producing a rapid increase. Owners in sunny regions with a well-matched pad often report noticeable gains, but results vary.
Do I need a pump to run a solar pool heater?
Most passive pool heating pads rely on your existing filter pump to move water through the collector. Running the pump during sunny hours is usually what makes the heater work. Check each manufacturer’s flow requirements.
Will a solar tarp heat my pool by itself?
A solar tarp mainly absorbs sunlight at the surface and reduces evaporation and nighttime heat loss. It helps retain warmth but is generally not a full heating solution on its own.
How long does a solar pool heater last?
Lifespan depends on UV exposure, materials and maintenance. Manufacturers usually state expected service life in their specifications. Storing the unit out of direct sun during winter typically extends its life.
Can I use a solar heater with an Intex pump?
Some products, such as the Intex28685E Solar Pool Water Heater Mat, are designed to work with Intex filter pumps within a stated flow range. Confirm your pump’s GPH rating and the product’s compatibility note before installing.
Is a solar shower a substitute for a pool heater?
No. A solar-heated outdoor shower warms water for rinsing and is not designed to heat pool water. It is a complement for pool-side use rather than a heating system.
When should I consult a professional?
If your pool plumbing has unusual pressure, you are connecting to a gas or electric heater, or you are unsure about electrical bonding near the pool, consult a licensed pool professional before proceeding.
Conclusion
For most above-ground pool owners, the Bestway Solar-Powered Pool Heating Pad is the most balanced starting point. If your pool is small or space is tight, the Solar Cub with Starter Kit fits better. Intex owners should look at the Intex28685E mat for compatibility, while rectangular pools suit the 43″x67″ pad. The shower and tarp options serve complementary needs rather than replacing a pool heater. Match the product to your pump flow, pool shape and sun exposure, and you will get the most from any bestway pool heater solar setup.
Sources
- Federal guidance on solar energy basics and how solar thermal systems collect and transfer heat (energy.gov)
- Pool and spa safety guidance and product safety information for consumers (cpsc.gov)
- Research on solar thermal performance and collector efficiency (nrel.gov)
Related reading
- Xtremepowerus Solar Pool Heater: Setup, Sizing and Common Mistakes
- What Is a Solar Pool Heater Vacuum Breaker and Why Does It Matter?
- Top 7 Swimming Pool Solar Water Heater Options Compared (2026)
- Top 7 Solar Pool Heaters for Inground Pool Options Compared (2026)
About Ethan Brooks
Ethan Brooks is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our solar water systems guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
