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.