For a spa or a small in-ground pool on Pentair automation, though the online price and short warranty make the 250 better value.
Amazon $3,549The Pentair MasterTemp 200 and the Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm 200 are evenly matched, rated 3.4 and 3.3. The Pentair MasterTemp 200 costs $101 less ($3,549 vs $3,650).
Prices were last checked November 9, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
A Pentair built heater for owners on Pentair automation who want low NOx and high efficiency; compare prices with the MasterTemp first.
Amazon $3,650Scores 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 | Pentair MasterTemp 200 | Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm 200 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.4/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Value 35% | 44 $17.75 per 1,000 BTU/h ($3,549, 200,000 BTU/h) | 40 $18.25 per 1,000 BTU/h ($3,650, 200,000 BTU/h) |
| Heating input 25% | 100 200,000 BTU/h | 100 200,000 BTU/h |
| Efficiency 20% | 67 84% thermal efficiency | 67 84% thermal efficiency |
| Warranty 20% | 0 1-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Pentair MasterTemp 200 | Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm 200 | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Gas input | 200,000 BTU/h | 200,000 BTU/h |
| Gas type | Natural gas or propane | Natural gas or propane |
| Thermal efficiency | 84% | 84% |
| Condensing | No | No |
| Low NOx | Yes | Yes |
| Heat exchanger | Copper | Copper |
| Max water flow | 120 GPM | - |
| Installation and controls | ||
| Ignition | Electronic | - |
| Venting | Both | Both |
| Digital controls | Yes | Yes |
| Automation or app | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 128 lb | - |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
