Raypak AVIA 404A
The best rounded in-ground pool heater here for most owners: efficient, low NOx and app controlled with a longer warranty, if bought from an authorized dealer.
Amazon $4,420.27$4,420.27
The Raypak AVIA 404A is the better gas pool heater overall, rated 4.4 to 4.3. The Raypak AVIA 404A leads on value. The Raypak AVIA 404A costs $502.73 less ($4,420.27 vs $4,923).
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
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 404A for value ($11.08 per 1,000 BTU/h ($4,420.27, 399,000 BTU/h) vs $12.34 per 1,000 BTU/h ($4,923, 399,000 BTU/h)).
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 404A | Raypak AVIA HD NiTek 404A |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.4/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Value 35% | 74 $11.08 per 1,000 BTU/h ($4,420.27, 399,000 BTU/h) | 60 $12.34 per 1,000 BTU/h ($4,923, 399,000 BTU/h) |
| Heating input 25% | 99 399,000 BTU/h | 99 399,000 BTU/h |
| Efficiency 20% | 67 84% thermal efficiency | 67 84% thermal efficiency |
| Warranty 20% | 100 3-year warranty | 100 3-year warranty |
Specifications
| Raypak AVIA 404A | Raypak AVIA HD NiTek 404A | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Gas input | 399,000 BTU/h | 399,000 BTU/h |
| Gas type | Natural gas or propane | Natural gas or propane |
| Thermal efficiency | 84% | 84% |
| Condensing | No | No |
| Low NOx | Yes | - |
| Heat exchanger | Copper | Nitek |
| Max water flow | 100 GPM | 100 GPM |
| Installation and controls | ||
| Ignition | Electronic | Electronic |
| Venting | Both | Both |
| Digital controls | Yes | Yes |
| Automation or app | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |