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 3.5. The Raypak AVIA 404A leads on heating input, warranty and efficiency. The Raypak Digital 336A costs $805.27 less ($3,615 vs $4,420.27).
Raypak Digital 336A
Good value for in-ground pools outside low NOx areas, provided it comes from an authorized dealer so the warranty holds.
Amazon $3,615$3,615
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 heating input (399,000 BTU/h vs 332,000 BTU/h), warranty (3-year warranty vs 2-year warranty) and efficiency (84% thermal efficiency vs 82% thermal efficiency).
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 Digital 336A |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.4/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Value 35% | 74 $11.08 per 1,000 BTU/h ($4,420.27, 399,000 BTU/h) | 76 $10.89 per 1,000 BTU/h ($3,615, 332,000 BTU/h) |
| Heating input 25% | 99 399,000 BTU/h | 55 332,000 BTU/h |
| Efficiency 20% | 67 84% thermal efficiency | 33 82% thermal efficiency |
| Warranty 20% | 100 3-year warranty | 50 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| Raypak AVIA 404A | Raypak Digital 336A | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Gas input | 399,000 BTU/h | 332,000 BTU/h |
| Gas type | Natural gas or propane | Natural gas or propane |
| Thermal efficiency | 84% | 82% |
| Condensing | No | No |
| Low NOx | Yes | No |
| Heat exchanger | Copper | Copper |
| 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 | 2 years |