Raypak and Gulfstream both come up often when South Florida homeowners shop for a pool heater, but they are not quite the same kind of company. Gulfstream makes heat pumps only. Raypak is best known for gas pool heaters, and it also makes heat pumps. We sell, install, and service both brands. Here is how they compare.

Raypak at a Glance

Raypak is widely known for gas pool heaters, including commercial models. Gas heaters burn natural gas or propane, so they heat water quickly no matter how cool the air is.

Raypak also makes the Crosswind line of heat pumps, which use a titanium heat exchanger and inverter technology, with heat and cool models available.

Gulfstream at a Glance

Gulfstream makes electric heat pump pool heaters and has been a common choice in Florida for years. Pentair bought Gulfstream’s manufacturer in December 2024, so Gulfstream is now a Pentair brand. Pentair lists a C.O.P. of 6.0 to 6.1 for Gulfstream’s HE models, a titanium heat exchanger, and a 7-year parts warranty with a 2-year labor warranty.

If You Are Comparing a Raypak Gas Heater to a Gulfstream Heat Pump

This is really a gas vs. heat pump decision:

• Heating speed: A gas heater raises the water temperature faster, which helps if you only heat the pool now and then, or want a spa hot quickly.
• Running cost: A heat pump moves heat from the air instead of burning fuel, so in South Florida’s warm climate it usually costs less to run when you heat the pool regularly.
• Cold weather: A gas heater works the same on the coldest night. A heat pump slows down as the air gets colder.
• Fuel: A gas heater needs natural gas service or a propane tank. A heat pump only needs electrical service.

If You Are Comparing a Raypak Heat Pump to a Gulfstream Heat Pump

Both use titanium heat exchangers and both offer heat and cool models. The differences come down to the specific model: its size, its efficiency at the temperatures you swim in, its controls, and its warranty. Compare published efficiency numbers only when they were measured under the same test conditions.

Maintenance and Coastal Conditions

Salt air and humidity are hard on any pool heater. Gas heaters have burners and ignition parts that need regular inspection. Heat pumps depend on clean airflow and healthy electrical parts. Either way, regular professional maintenance is the best way to get a long life out of your heater.

Which Is the Better Choice?

If you heat your pool often, a heat pump from either brand usually makes the most sense in South Florida. If you heat only occasionally, or want fast spa heat, a Raypak gas heater may fit better. And if you want our most common recommendation, ask about AquaCal, the heat pump brand we install most.

We have been heating South Florida pools for nearly 40 years and install all of these brands. Call 954.341.2002 for a free estimate.