An affordable heater for above-ground pools and spas where a short warranty and outdoor only installation are acceptable.
Amazon $2,399The Hayward H-Series H135FD is the better gas pool heater overall, rated 2.6 to 2.4. The Hayward H-Series H135FD leads on heating input and value. The Raypak 106A wins on warranty. The Raypak 106A costs $280 less ($2,119 vs $2,399).
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Hayward H-Series H135FD for heating input (135,000 BTU/h vs 105,000 BTU/h) and value ($17.77 per 1,000 BTU/h ($2,399, 135,000 BTU/h) vs $20.18 per 1,000 BTU/h ($2,119, 105,000 BTU/h)).
- Choose the Raypak 106A for warranty (2-year warranty vs 1-year warranty).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every under 250,000 BTU gas pool heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Hayward H-Series H135FD | Raypak 106A |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 2.6/5 | 2.4/5 |
| Value 35% | 43 $17.77 per 1,000 BTU/h ($2,399, 135,000 BTU/h) | 25 $20.18 per 1,000 BTU/h ($2,119, 105,000 BTU/h) |
| Heating input 25% | 35 135,000 BTU/h | 5 105,000 BTU/h |
| Efficiency 20% | 33 82% thermal efficiency | 33 82% thermal efficiency |
| Warranty 20% | 0 1-year warranty | 50 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| Hayward H-Series H135FD | Raypak 106A | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Gas input | 135,000 BTU/h | 105,000 BTU/h |
| Gas type | Natural gas or propane | Natural gas or propane |
| Thermal efficiency | 82% | 82% |
| Condensing | No | No |
| Low NOx | Yes | No |
| Heat exchanger | Cupro-nickel | Copper |
| Max water flow | 125 GPM | 70 GPM |
| Installation and controls | ||
| Ignition | Electronic | Electronic |
| Venting | Outdoor | Both |
| Digital controls | Yes | No |
| Automation or app | Yes | - |
| Weight | 100 lb | - |
| Warranty | 1 year | 2 years |
