Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm 200
A Pentair built heater for owners on Pentair automation who want low NOx and high efficiency; compare prices with the MasterTemp first.
Amazon $3,650$3,650
The Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm 200 is the better gas pool heater overall, rated 3.3 to 3.2. The Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm 200 leads on efficiency. The Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm 200 costs $49 less ($3,650 vs $3,699).
Hayward H-Series H200FD
A low NOx, salt tolerant spa or small pool heater for owners who buy online and can live with a short warranty.
Amazon $3,699$3,699
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 Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm 200 for efficiency (84% thermal efficiency vs 83% thermal efficiency).
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 | Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm 200 | Hayward H-Series H200FD |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Value 35% | 40 $18.25 per 1,000 BTU/h ($3,650, 200,000 BTU/h) | 38 $18.50 per 1,000 BTU/h ($3,699, 199,900 BTU/h) |
| Heating input 25% | 100 200,000 BTU/h | 100 199,900 BTU/h |
| Efficiency 20% | 67 84% thermal efficiency | 50 83% thermal efficiency |
| Warranty 20% | 0 1-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm 200 | Hayward H-Series H200FD | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Gas input | 200,000 BTU/h | 199,900 BTU/h |
| Gas type | Natural gas or propane | Natural gas or propane |
| Thermal efficiency | 84% | 83% |
| Condensing | No | No |
| Low NOx | Yes | Yes |
| Heat exchanger | Copper | Cupro-nickel |
| Max water flow | - | 125 GPM |
| Installation and controls | ||
| Ignition | - | Electronic |
| Venting | Both | Both |
| Digital controls | Yes | Yes |
| Automation or app | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | - | 140 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |