4 Things to Know About Heater Size for Above-Ground Pools

100,000 BTUs is the sweet spot for most standard above-ground pools up to 24 feet round. This size heats a 10,000- to 15,000-gallon pool from cold to comfortable in 12 to 24 hours.

Bump to 150,000 BTUs only if you live in a cold northern climate, face lots of wind, or want to swim in early spring or late fall. Otherwise, stick with 100,000.

A heater that is too big wastes gas and money by running in short bursts. A heater that is too small never catches up.

Do not skip a solar cover. It saves more heat than any heater upgrade, making a 100,000 BTU unit feel like overkill.