Raypak AVIA HD NiTek 404A
For salt pool owners who want the AVIA features with a tougher heat exchanger and will pay extra for it.
Amazon $4,923$4,923
The Raypak AVIA HD NiTek 404A is the better gas pool heater overall, rated 4.3 to 3.5. The Raypak AVIA HD NiTek 404A leads on warranty. The Raypak AVIA HD NiTek 404A costs $176 less ($4,923 vs $5,099).
Hayward H-Series H400FD
A low NOx, salt tolerant in-ground pool heater for owners who buy online and can live with a short warranty.
Amazon $5,099$5,099
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 Raypak AVIA HD NiTek 404A for warranty (3-year warranty vs 1-year warranty).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every 250,000 BTU and up gas pool heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Raypak AVIA HD NiTek 404A | Hayward H-Series H400FD |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.3/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Value 35% | 60 $12.34 per 1,000 BTU/h ($4,923, 399,000 BTU/h) | 56 $12.75 per 1,000 BTU/h ($5,099, 399,900 BTU/h) |
| Heating input 25% | 99 399,000 BTU/h | 100 399,900 BTU/h |
| Efficiency 20% | 67 84% thermal efficiency | 67 84% thermal efficiency |
| Warranty 20% | 100 3-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Raypak AVIA HD NiTek 404A | Hayward H-Series H400FD | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Gas input | 399,000 BTU/h | 399,900 BTU/h |
| Gas type | Natural gas or propane | Natural gas or propane |
| Thermal efficiency | 84% | 84% |
| Condensing | No | No |
| Low NOx | - | Yes |
| Heat exchanger | Nitek | Cupro-nickel |
| Max water flow | 100 GPM | 125 GPM |
| Installation and controls | ||
| Ignition | Electronic | Electronic |
| Venting | Both | Both |
| Digital controls | Yes | Yes |
| Automation or app | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | - | 195 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 1 year |