Hayward H-Series H250FDN review

The Hayward H-Series H250FDN packs a powerful performance alongside some serious eco-credentials, giving you a reliable and efficient pool heating system.

Hayward H-Series H250FDN
(Image: © Hayward)

Top Ten Reviews Verdict

The Hayward H-Series H250FDN is extremely reliable and energy-efficient. It marries high performance with environmentally responsible low NOx emissions and can provide energy savings of up to 18% compared to other similar pool heaters.

Pros

  • +

    Low NOx emissions

  • +

    Salt water and chemical corrosion resistance

Cons

  • -

    Noisy

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Designed for swimming pools and spa pools, the Hayward H-Series H250FDN Natural Gas Heater is an energy-efficient, high-performance, natural gas pool heater. No more chilly dips - this pool heater can raise the temperature of an 800-gallon pool by 30 degrees Fahrenheit in less than an hour.

If you’re looking for a more environmentally-friendly option to heat your pool, the Hayward H-Series H250FDN may be the perfect fit for you. Many gas pool heaters produce high levels of NOx emissions (nitrogen oxides NO and NO2). These poisonous emissions contribute to ground-level ozone that can harm ecosystems. 

Hayward H-Series H250FDN: Key specs

Dimensions: 29 x 28 x 24 inches

Weight:171.3 lbs

Fuel type: Gas

Energy Star Certified: No

Warranty: 1 year

The Hayward H-Series H250FDN produces lower NOx emissions compared to other gas pool heaters, and in fact, it meets clean air quality standards. Its energy efficiency is not only good for the environment but great for your wallet too. By reducing pump run-time, it saves up to 18% on what it usually costs to run a gas pool heater.

Hayward has been manufacturing cutting-edge, technologically advanced pool equipment worldwide for 80 years. So if you’re looking for reliability and durability, this is a brand to trust.

Our review takes a closer look at the Hayward H-Series H250FDN, from its unique features and powerful performance, to how users have found it after purchase. We’ve got all the information you need to know before you decide to buy this gas pool heater. Plus, if the Hayward H-Series H250FDN isn’t the right fit for your pool, our buyer’s guide to the best pool heaters is certain to have the right model.

Hayward H-Series H250FDN: Design & features

This natural gas pool heater has a standard cupro nickel heat exchanger and the forced draft system moves air through the combustion chamber at a precise flow rate. This eliminates factors – like outside weather variables – that can affect the performance of a gas pool heater. It offers great flexibility when it comes to installation on both new and existing equipment pads, as well as excellent salt water and chemical corrosion resistance

Hayward H-Series H250FDN: Performance

The Hayward H-Series H250FDN works by using hydraulic design to reduce circulation pump time, saving on your energy bills and cutting down on harmful NOx emissions. It also uses energy-efficient extras, such as stainless steel burners, rust-resistant heat exchangers, and insulated Fire Tile combustion chambers to trap heat, which delivers powerful insulation.

Easy to install and compatible with almost any pool system, the Hayward H-Series H250FDN also features an LED control panel. This allows you to monitor heat performance, get a digital temperature readout, and quickly identify if any parts need a service. 

It may be helpful to give you an idea of how quickly the Hayward H-Series H250FDN can heat up a pool by 30 degrees Fahrenheit increments. Of course, smaller pools will heat up more quickly. A small, 200-gallon pool takes 15 minutes to warm up by 30 degrees Fahrenheit, while a large, 1,000-gallon pool takes up to 75 minutes to achieve the same. 

If you’re worried about your salt-based chlorination system rusting up your pool heater, there’s no need with the Hayward H-Series H250FDN. Its Cupro Nickel construction means that it’s protected from corrosion and erosion, extending the life of your pool heater, while a silicon nitride ignition system offers reliable lighting and operation. It’s also flexible enough to adapt to your existing pool equipment.

Hayward H-Series H250FDN: Price

Although this isn’t the cheapest pool heater out there, reviewers agree it’s worth the money. Cheaper gas heaters are certainly available, but they don't have the performance or environmentally-friendly features that this pool heater offers.

Hayward H-Series H250FDN: User reviews

Chainsaw Journal found the Hayward H250FDN is “built for efficiency and durability” and say it has proven itself to be one of the best 250,000 BTU pool heaters.

My Waterpool found Hayward has “put some work into making this heater efficient and eco-friendly”. They say the total heating time for a pool using this heater can vary anywhere from 2-4 hours depending on the size of the pool and describe this heater as a great option if you’re looking for an above ground pool heater which offers excellent performance.

Revooz gives it a number one ranking and has rated it 80/100 based on 492 reviews, while Pool Center says the Universal H-Series Heater from Hayward is “simply the most reliable, hydraulically efficient solution” for any pool or spa.

Should you buy the Hayward H-Series H250FDN?

Yes, if you want to invest in a high-performing natural gas pool heater but you don’t want something with high emissions or poor energy efficiency. For climates where a gas heater is the best option, this gets our vote.

If this product isn't for you

If you’re after a propane-fuelled pool heater, why not try the Pentair 460737 MasterTemp? With similar energy efficiency and low NOx emissions to the Hayward H-Series H250FDN, it also boasts a compact design and quiet operation, meaning a peaceful swim for you. 

If electric suits your pool set-up better, you may prefer to take a look at the EcoSmart Smart Pool 18. This electric-powered tankless heater uses flow sensor technology, which makes it reliable and long-lasting, and lowers the risk of burnt-out elements. 

For pool-owners on a budget, the Hayward HeatPro HP21404T offers up to 80% savings on your pool operating costs by using outside air combined with a titanium heat exchanger and profiled fan blade.  

Heidi Scrimgeour

Heidi has written for an assortment of high profile publications, including Grazia, Red, and Mother & Baby magazine. She has a Masters degree from the University of Westminster, and works as a freelancer writer and copy editor.

With contributions from