Which gas heater is best?

[ddawnwes]

We are getting ready to install a 20x40 IG and are planning to heat with gas (even though electric is more efficient!), anyway, I am in Indiana & will more than likely only utilize the heat for an extended swim season. I just want to know what the general opinion is based on personal experience. I don't want to end up with something that is going to have to be replaced in a couple of years. Any feedback you can give is appreciated.

[cruzmisl]

I'm very very happy with my Sta-Rite heater. As heaters go the larger the better. Mine is a 333k btu natural gas model. Solar and heat pumps weren't really a good option since I like to heat my spa quickly in the middle of the night:)

All brands have their problems though. The one that was the worst in my research was Hayward and the best was Sta-Rite (probably because there aren't many around) I do not regret my purchase........yet (fingers crossed)

[ddawnwes]

Thanks for your input. The company I am going with is trying to push the Hayward model on me, but for almost $400 more than I can get it online. It doesn't include connection to the gas line, so I am going to purchase my heater separate from the pool.

[cruzmisl]

They'll try to push whatever brand they carry, whatever has the highest mark up or whatever has been sitting in their warehouse the longest :)

I saved hundreds buying mine online. The plumbing, electrical and even the gas were a joke to hook up. The gas was a bit of a PITA because it took a few trips to Home Depot to have the correct lengths made.

Even if I had to pay it's still cheaper to buy it online and hire your own plumber to hook it up.