$2,290.44
The Raypak 156A is the better gas pool heater overall, rated 3.3 to 2.6. The Raypak 156A leads on warranty, heating input and value. The Pentair MasterTemp 125 costs $192.44 less ($2,098 vs $2,290.44).
Pentair MasterTemp 125
A compact, light heater for spas and above-ground pools, best for owners with Pentair automation.
Amazon $2,098$2,098
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 156A for warranty (2-year warranty vs 1-year warranty), heating input (150,000 BTU/h vs 125,000 BTU/h) and value ($15.27 per 1,000 BTU/h ($2,290.44, 150,000 BTU/h) vs $16.78 per 1,000 BTU/h ($2,098, 125,000 BTU/h)).
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 | Raypak 156A | Pentair MasterTemp 125 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 2.6/5 |
| Value 35% | 65 $15.27 per 1,000 BTU/h ($2,290.44, 150,000 BTU/h) | 52 $16.78 per 1,000 BTU/h ($2,098, 125,000 BTU/h) |
| Heating input 25% | 50 150,000 BTU/h | 25 125,000 BTU/h |
| Efficiency 20% | 33 82% thermal efficiency | 33 82% thermal efficiency |
| Warranty 20% | 50 2-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Raypak 156A | Pentair MasterTemp 125 | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Gas input | 150,000 BTU/h | 125,000 BTU/h |
| Gas type | Natural gas or propane | Natural gas or propane |
| Thermal efficiency | 82% | 82% |
| Condensing | No | No |
| Low NOx | No | Yes |
| Max water flow | 70 GPM | 70 GPM |
| Installation and controls | ||
| Ignition | Electronic | - |
| Venting | Both | Both |
| Digital controls | Yes | Yes |
| Automation or app | - | Yes |
| Weight | - | 80 lb |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |