Pool Heat Pumps

The Ultimate Buying Guide to Electric Heat Pumps for Heating Pools

Article was written by Gregory Grochola (physicist) - 27/07/2024

So you're considering an electric heat pump to heat your swimming pool - this comprehensive write up will help you get the low down on different types of options and all the things you'll want to consider, read on ...

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Pool Heat Pump

An electric heat pump is a device that uses electricity to transfer latent heat from the air to your pool's water using a  refrigeration cycle. Unlike gas heaters that generate heat by burning fuels, or solar heaters that use the sun's thermal energy to heat water; heat pumps work by firstly compressing a gas refrigerant into a condenser coil immersed in heat exchanger.

Compression of this gas heats the coils and hence the heat exchanger well  above ambient air temperatures, this heat is then transferred to the pool by passing pool water through the heat exchanger elements. Once the heat is removed, the still pressurized gas refrigerant is then allowed to expand into an evaporator coil via an expansion valve, where it cools well below ambient air temperature due to the natural expansion of gas.

The evaporator coil has a large set of fine air heat exchanger fins and a fan blows warmer ambient air over the fins. Since the gas in the evaporator coil is now cooler than the ambient air, the process extracts heat from the outside air itself, which re-heats the refrigerant - ready to be compressed again. This completes the refrigeration cycle. The warmer (and more humid) the outside air; the more efficient the process.

It's critically important to understand that heat pumps don't magically gather heat from nothing - heat pumps need a large, constant supply of fresh, warm, humid air to work efficiently.

Before discussing the ins-and-outs of heat pumps, let's summarize the main options for heating a pool, if you want to skip this part scroll down to the next section. These can be classed into two distinct groups, solar-based and utility-based.


2.1.1 Solar PVC Strips/Mat/Tube Roof Collectors

PVC strip collectors (also called solar mats or tubes) are made by extruding a long cross-section of tubular water channels. They are typically mounted with strips going across the roof with their main header pipe (also called the manifold or feed pipe) going up/down the roof. The PVC material typically has a softening agent (a plasticizer) which makes the strips flexible. Individual tubes are joined to barbs on the manifold and are either glued in or held in place using mechanical clamping means.

2.1.2 Solar Pool Heating Roof Panels

Solar pool heater panels are one-piece construction blow-molded HDPE plastic panels, having large internal water channels with a low pressure drop across them and turbulent water flow characteristics.

2.1.3 Hybrid Tube Roof "Panels"

These hybrid "panels" are typically made from extruded PP or PP blends with channels that are either joined together or in a loose arrangement, installed going up the roof. The channels are welded or mechanically attached to a main header pipe going across the roof.

2.1.4 Enclosed Solar Pool Roof Panels

Enclosed solar pool panels are basically polymer collectors that are covered with a glazing material (glass or transparent plastic). The glazing material increases the efficiency of the panels during adverse heating conditions like spring and autumn, which can have cold and windy but yet sunny days. These types of collectors are best reserved for heating premium indoor pools where the water temperature is substantially higher than the air temperature during winter.

2.1.5 Combination PV Panels with Heat Pumps

The combination of solar electric panels (PV panels) and heat pumps could also be classed as solar-based heating systems. These systems work by firstly, harnessing electric energy via the solar electric panels, which is then used to run a heat pump to warm the pool. Modern PV panels are typically only 18% - 23% efficient, as compared to a modern solar thermal pool panel which are about 80-90% efficiency, however an efficient heat pump with COP factor ~5 can make these systems close to ~100% efficient (with regards to the amount of the solar energy collected and transferred to the pool), which is comparable if not slightly better than the best polymer solar pool heater systems.

The main issue with these systems is the large upfront costs which lead to long payback times. Of course, it should also be taken into consideration that PV panels will produce electricity during the winter non-pool heating season, unlike solar thermal collectors.

2.1.7 Transparent Solar Pool Covers

We could class a solar pool cover as a solar-based heating method as normally the surface of the pool itself forms the largest natural solar collector in the system. A solar pool cover (typically transparent) and works by letting light through into the pool while forming an insulating layer to keep the heat in, mainly by preventing evaporation. However, it's main effect is to work on the other side of the heat loading equation, i.e., while active heating puts the heat in, a solar pool cover keeps the heat in my preventing large evaporation loses overnight.

IMPORTANT NOTE: We've noticed silver tinted solar pool covers are becoming more popular these days. Note, these non-transparent covers block the sun rays from entering the pool deeply, they will cool your pool. We strongly recommend using only transparent pool covers to allow the sun's warm rays to penetrate deep into the pool.


2.2.1 Electric Heating Element

This is basically a bar heater or heating element, immersed in flowing water, electricity is used to heat the element and in turn the water. Typically, used to heat small highly insulated spa pools, they are the least efficient means to heat a pool or spa. Their COP (Coefficient Of Performance) factor (energy in to energy out ratio) is 1.0 - meaning for every 1 kWh worth of electrical energy you put in you get 1 kWh worth of thermal heating. Note, deceptive marketing could also state these heaters are 100% efficient. While, this is technically true they remain the least efficient of any pool heating option.

2.2.2 Electric Heat Pumps

Again, heat pumps work by using electricity to "pump" or transfer heat from surrounding air into the pool water. They work on the same principle as air conditioners but in reverse. They can have average de-rated COP (Coefficient Of Performance) factors as high as 4-5, meaning for every 1 kWh worth of electrical energy you put in you get 5 kWh worth of thermal heating, i.e., it could be said they are 400-500% efficient.

2.2.3 Gas Heaters

Gas heater basically burns domestic gas to heat a heat exchanger with flowing water, in turn heating the water. They have typical efficiencies of 87%; meaning of the total energy obtained from burning gas, 87% will get transferred into the pool water, the rest will get blow out with the hot exhaust air.


Of course there is one more clever way you can warm a pool and that is to change its heat/loss equation by - firstly, removing any shading on the pool and secondly, sheltering it from the wind by planting windbreak shrubs (that don't grow tall so as to shade the pool) or building a windproof fence. Our pool heat pump water temperature simulator will help you decide whether this is worth it for your pool.

3.1.1 Lower Running Costs

The main advantage of heat pumps over gas heaters is their lower operating costs, in most situations. There are rares cases for example, very cold regions, enclosed backyards, and/or areas where gas is cheap and electricity is expensive, where this may not always be the case.

3.1.2 Longer Longevity

With proper maintenance, heat pumps can last 10 to 20 years, providing long-term reliability, while gas heaters tend to burn out much faster (5–10 years) due to the higher temperatures and heat stress all the elements are exposed to.

3.1.3 Potentially More Environmentally Friendly

Heat pumps technically do not burn fossil fuels, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller carbon footprint, however it should be stressed that this depends on the source of power your utility provider uses. If the utility provider sources it's electricity from mostly coal or gas burning activities then heat pumps do in fact contribute greatly to greenhouse gas emission. Australia is committed to phasing out coal and gas peaking plants, so this situation should get better with time. In this sense heat pumps are the future as more and more renewables enter the mix.

Embodied carbon (emissions cost to manufacture) should also be considered here, and since heat pumps tend to last longer the embodied carbon cost for heat pumps is lower than gas heaters.

3.2.1 Longer Heat-Up Times

Gas heaters can quickly heat the pool water, while heat pumps tend to be more slow and steady. While heat pumps are still classed as an "on-demand" type system, they do require more planning from an "on-demand" prospective. For example if you have a weekend pool partly, and are not actively heating your pool, you'll may need to start the heat pump, up to a couple of days before the event, depending on the time of year.

3.2.2 Higher Initial Cost

The upfront cost of purchasing a heat pump can be higher than a gas heater. Both have similar form factors and plumbing arrangements, hence install costs tend to be similar.

3.2.3 Performance Dependent on Air Temperature

Heat pumps are less efficient in colder climates where the ambient air temperature and/or humidity is low. This means that during adverse conditions heat pumps are not as "on-demand" as one would like. If you would like to have your heat pump warm up your pool at any stage of the year, you need to pay attention to heat pump sizing and a solar pool cover will be absolute requirement. Gas heaters source heat from burning gas, hence they are not as influenced by adverse weather conditions, however they also need to be appropriate sized if you plan on heating your pool in adverse conditions, i.e., both systems need to be sized for the heat required during the time of year you'd still like to swim. Our online pool heat pump water temperature simulator, will provide you with daily energy requirements for all months of the year to help you size a system up.

4.1.1 On Demand System

The main advantage of heat pumps over solar based systems is that they provide an "on-demand" type heating solution (depending on sizing); meaning that regardless of weather conditions, you can maintain your pool's temperature as desired, even if the sun hasn't been shining for a few days.

However, this is statement should be somewhat qualified as really both are subject to sizing considerations, namely if the heat pump is sized too small, then it too will suffer in adverse weather conditions. Conversely, if solar is sized high enough, and run with a lower temperature differential, (assuming you are willing to accept a lower solar COP factor) then the season can also be extended greatly.

Further, it's also important to understand that as the air temperatures falls below a certain threshold, people simply don't want to get into an outdoor pool no matter how warm the water is due to the wind chill factor. A lot of people choose a heat pump or gas heater based on the fact that these auxiliary heating systems are more of an "on demand" type system without realizing that your desire to get into a pool when it's cold and windy is - let's just say greatly diminished.

4.1.2 Doesn't Require Roof Space

One increasing important factor today, is that ideal aspect roof spaces are more and more taken up by solar PV panel systems. Hence you might not have the roof space to install solar; making heat pumps one of the only viable options. In Australia, the trend towards building compact two-story townhouses often complicates solar installations on smaller roofs. In contrast, heat pumps can be installed without the need for a large North or NorthWeast facing roof space, leaving room for future a future solar PV system.

There are also associated advantages here, like you will not need to modified or perforate your roof or adhere solar strips down, nor will you face a common issue with solar strips, namely as strips come to the end of their 15 year life, they tend to degrade in polymer strength and perforate easy, which could corrode your gutters if you're not observant to leaks.

4.2.1 Much Higher Cost of Ownership

The main disadvantage of heat pumps over solar is the cost of ownership over 10 years, as this includes running costs. Solar-based systems draw the bulk of the heating power from the sun, they are much less extensive to run, with COP (Coefficient Of Performance) factors closer to ~100. Although, utility-based heating systems do have reduced running cost if a pool cover is used, they are still much more expensive over the long run. So once you're made the initial outlay for your solar pool heater; the running costs are very low, especially if you are running a small pump on a fast flow, low-pressure drop collectors like OKU solar pool heating panels.

4.2.2 Slightly Higher Maintenance

Heat pumps do require periodic maintenance; checking refrigerant levels, cleaning heat exchanger coils from dust, and ensuring the fan and compressor are in good condition.

Solar based systems generally have fewer mechanical components with reduced chance of breakdowns, however this is depended on the system. Some solar systems require more work than others, for example strips are particular sensitive to cockatoo/hail damage. Strip based system also have strainers that require constant cleaning.

However, the older a solar system is, the more "settled in place" it is becomes, requiring less oversight for the bulk of it's remaining life, while the opposite is true for heat pumps, the older they get the most maintenance will be required as multiple components age and wear and hence brake down in turn.

4.2.3 Less Environmentally Friendly

Again if your utility provider sources it's electricity from coal or gas burning activities then heat pumps are a much less environmentally friendly solution producing large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. This is due to the fact that the overall efficiency of burning coal and getting it to you in the form of electricity, including all transmission/distribution losses is approx ~30%. Assuming, an optimistic heat pump COP factor of ~6, that's an overall thermal coal to pool thermal heat efficiency of 180%.* However, Australia now has a significant amount of renewables in the mix and is committed to phasing out coal and gas peaking plants, so this situation should get better with time. This also assumes no solar PV is installed on site, which changes this equation.

* To highlight what this is equivalent to, if we take an optimistic position and say the overall coal thermal to pool thermal heat efficiency is 200%, this is still the emissions equivalent of having a 100% efficient coal burning furnace next to your pool, heating 1/2 of the pools water, and you get the other half magically heated for free. From this prospective, you can see why it's so important to use a clear solar thermal cover with heat pumps, not just for your wallet but for climate change and for the clear air we breath.

This depends on a lot of factors and the heat loading computations are quite complex. We're created a pool heating simulator to help you ascertain when and under what conditions your heat pump could get your pool to a certain temperature.

  1. The COP efficiency of the heat pump - the gap between the best and worst heat pump is about 50% in efficiency.
  2. Heat pump sizing - the larger heat pump the greater it's ability to extend your season during very adverse weather conditions.
  3. Available air flow to the unit. Some modern backyards are small and completely fenced. During still days a horizontally exhausted heat pump will flood an enclosed backyard (and potentially the pool's water surface) with cold dry air which sinks and stays low, creating an effective air short circuit (as well as potentially cooling the pool's surface). This will dramatically reduce your COP factor efficiency and the heat pump's capacity to heat the pool.
  4. Air temperature and moisture content. Water molecules carry a lot of latent heat which when condensed on the units air exchanger fins releases a lot of heat. Similarly, warm air molecules also provide this heat. Heat pump's need to breath a lot of fresh, warm, preferably moist air.
  5. Cleanliness of air exchanger fins. Regular cleaning of the air exchanger fins is recommended. The more clogged these are with dust the harder the unit has to work. Remember air only gets a single pass through these air exchanger fins.
  1. Transparent solar pool cover usage - this has the greatest effect on the ability of a heat pump to increase pool temperatures substantially.
  2. Wind sheltering of the pool - i.e. fencing and shrubbery around a pool which shelters a pool reducing evaporation heat loss from the surface.
  3. Local wind strength terrain factors - i.e., are you in a built up sheltered suburban area or on a windy beach front.
  4. Shading on a pool - between the hours 10am to 4pm, this is a large factor and can substantially cool a pool.
  5. In ground or above ground - above ground pools loose substantial heat from exposed sides.
  6. Color of pool floor and walls - darker colors absorb more light.
  7. State and location the pool - as this determines air temperature, average wind speed and solar radiation absorbed into the pool.

The first thing you'll want to consider, is of course: do you have have an appropriately ventilated backyard?

A lot of people don't consider this due to a lack of understanding in how a heat pump works. A heat pump can't magically produce heat from nothing - that is it can, but then it's equivalent to an element bar heater with a COP factor of 1, or as marketing folks would say, "100% efficient"! It "pulls" it's heat from surrounding air, so it needs lots of air flow; given the difference in air density vs water density, it needs lots and lots and lots of fresh warm air. Water has the highest heat capacitance of any know material (meaning it takes a lot of energy to rise 1kg of water by 1°C).

Install a poorly located, horizontally exhausted heat pump, in a modern confined backward, with a tall fence all around and worse - do this with the pool situated in the very same enclosed backward, (to reduce pipe runs) and you'll trash your COP factor and turn your heat pump into an effective bar heater on windless days. This is because cold, dry air sinks* and stay confined within the enclosed backyard. This will cause an air circulation short circuit with the heat pump recirculating it's own cold, dry air, as well as blanketing on your nice warm pool with cold, dry air, helping to evaporate and cool it.

Vertically exhausted units do much better in a confined and enclosed backward, as they eject a stream of cold air upwards and (hopefully) out of the backyard, helping to bring in fresh, relatively warm air into the enclosed space.

Horizontally, exhausted units should really only be installed with proper thought for prevailing winds in the area and with proper thought for an air exhaust clearance path out of your backyard (preferably into your neighbors backyard :-)

* In fact even at the same temperature, dry air is heavier than moisture laden air due to the displacement of a heavier nitrogen gas molecule with the lighter water molecule.

Heat pump manufacturers love to tout peak ideal COP factors, however these are very poor indicators of how expensive heat pumps are to run (depending on pool cover usage of course). When calculating running costs we must consider the SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient Of Performance), as this is an indicator of the average COP factor over the entire season, and this must include stand by power when the unit is not running.

However, even SCOP is not sufficient, as this more realistic indicator assumes two things, firstly the unit is properly installed with an ideal air exhaust clearance path, i.e., no air short circuit paths and no cold dry exhaust air settling on or blowing over the pool. Secondly, it assumes a new, perfectly clean unit, while we know heat pumps loose efficiency as heat exchanger fins dust up and need to be cleaned on a periodic basis. Thirdly, it assumes the unit is running properly, with proper levels of refrigerant, etc., sometimes a unit can run inefficient and the first alert you get is when you receive the power bill.

You must be aware of these more realistic running costs and not be fooled by peak COP specs given under ideal conditions. Our online pool heat pump calculator, will give you realistic running costs for heat pumps with specific de-rated COP factors. However, if you trust your heat pump manufacture you can specify you own COP factor in the calculator.

If you're going to be using the heat pump on occasion (especially when it gets cooler) you should be aware of the extended heat up times during the adverse shoulder parts of the season. The exact heat up time is dependent on the starting and desired temperature of the pool, first and foremost, the size capacity of the unit, as well a bunch of heat loss/gain factors the pool is subject to, the most important of which is the use of a solar blanket and the pool's sun and wind exposure. Heat up times can range from a few hours to a couple of days, this just depends on the circumstances so we can't give you a definitive answer. Our pool heat pump sizing calculator, will however give this for a choose heat pump capacity.

Of course as mentioned you should consider sizing. The size of heat pump you require will depend on, again, the time of year you'll want to swim in, and a bunch of complex heat loading factors the pool is subject to, the most important of which is the use of a solar blanket and the pool's sun and wind exposure. Our heat pump sizing calculator, will help you size up a heat pump, give you an indication of running costs under various scenarios, as well as providing heat-up time for specific situations.

Noise levels are also an important consideration, especially with the heat pump is close to an entertaining area, or you want to be on good terms with your neighbors. You should check the decibel (dB) rating of the unit and consider it's location. Inverter heat pumps are generally quieter than ON/OFF fixed speed heat pumps, larger heat pump can also be louder. You might like to consider sound absorbing material (without blocking the exhaust outward flow).

Related to noise levels, you might consider running your heat pump at night on night-time off-peak tariffs. Assuming noise levels are acceptable, consider that a pool heat pump's COP factor only falls by 1-2 points, if air temperatures are reduced by 10-15DegC (typical for an Australian day night cycle). For a heat pump with a starting COP of say 5-6 that's really only say a 1/3 to 1/2 drop in efficiency, while night-time tariffs discounts are typically deeper. Here however, you need to check a couple of things, can the unit operate at such low temperature, and two, will the unit effectively eject cold, dry spent air out of your backyard efficiently in the still of the night? Running the heat pump like this might put extra stress on the unit so you might like to check with the manufacture. Even if you can't do this when it gets really cold, during autumn night time temperatures are still reasonable.

You should consider whether an unassisted (no solar boosted) heat pump is appropriate for your area, for example, Tas and SA are not only cold states, but have quite high energy costs, both in electricity and gas. If you're in one of these states and you want to use a heat pump exclusively, then you've got a two choices, either you limit your swimming time to the summer months or pay very high utility bills. Again a transparent pool cover, the removal of any shading on the pool as well as wind blocking shrubs can help change the heat loading scenario on your pool. You should also consider the temperature range of the unit can handle so that it is is well suited for your local area.

In Australia there are two types of refrigerants used after R22 was phased out: R410A which a non-flammable gas and R32 which is mildly flammable. Both have advantages and disadvantages. The newer R32 refrigerant seems to be slightly more efficient than the more established refrigerant R410A in a pool heat pump setting. From an environmental prospective, neither refrigerant depletes the ozone layer, however R32 has a lower GWP (Global Warming Potential) and is easier to recycle than R410A. R32 based heat pumps also use less refrigerant in general. You should be aware R410A is being phased-out in a lot of countries due to it's high GWP. In our opinion new purchases should favor R32 type units.

There maybe some things you can do yourself, otherwise consider that heat pumps do require periodic scheduled maintenance, especially to clean the air fins and keep them clear from dust build up that will decrease the efficiency of the unit. You might also live in an area that requires winterization of your unit, which may involve draining water from the unit.


Design Feature
Why it's Important
Inverter Technology
An inverter type pool heat pump is quieter and more energy-efficient
Performance Monitoring
Allows you to monitor energy usage so that you know early which times are costly to use your heat pump
Auto Defrost Mechanism
Some cooler frost prone and colder areas will put a great deal of demand on your heat pump. For such areas it's important to make sure the unit has an Auto Defrost.
Build Quality and Materials
Of course consider the quality of the build and the reputation of the company supplying the unit, as you might be left high and dry (or cold) if you choose someone that's only been around a few years.
Control Options
Added control options allow for smarter operation which increase efficiency. For example, does your unit check to see if it's going to be a hot day before turning on? Can it smartly monitor usage habits?
Warranty and Support
Check the credibility and reviews of the company supplying the unit, check if they will support you in the event of a warranty claim.
Heat/Cooling Functionality
If you're up North you'll definitely need to make sure your heat pump can actually cool your pool as well as heat.
Compatibility with Existing Systems
You might need to check that the heat pump is compatible with your pool’s existing filtration and plumbing systems.
Dual Functionality
If your pool has a seperate spa section you might want a dual thermostat unit to heat both the pool and spa.
Eco-Friendly Refrigerants
You might care about global warming, check the unit uses the more eco-friendly and efficient R32 refrigerant, over the older R410A variant.
Titanium Heat Exchanger
How corrosion resistant are all the components in the unit? Your heat exchanger should preferable be made from titanium, however keep in mind that if the unit is close to the pool there is always going to be chlorine vapor around, which can get into the units nooks and crannies.
Self-Diagnostics
A good self-diagnostic program and help identify issues early before they lead to major issues and repairs.
Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity
Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity is helpful for remote monitoring and control, alerts, data insight and easy updates for your unit.
Ease of installation
Is the system DIY or does it require special skills?
Horizontal or Vertical Exhaust Fan
Be mindful that the unit has a clear path to expel cold, dry exhaust air out of the backyard if you have an enclosed backyard.

You can expect to pay anywhere from $300-$400 per 1kW output for the purchase cost of a heat pump depending on quality and features. Hence for a 21kW unit that's anywhere from: 21 x $300= $6,300 to 21 x $400 = $8,400.

Installation can run you anywhere from $500 to $2,000 depending on the size of the unit and what you need done to connect the unit's plumbing and electricity and to create a foundation.

On-going service costs for heat pump will include an annual service call out, with some manufactures recommending bi-annual visits (check with our manufacturer), so think in the range $200 to $400 per year.

Running cost are highly dependent on heat loading factors, our heat pump running cost calculator, understand running cost more.

Wikipedia on Swimming Pool Heating and Heat Pumps

Australian and US Government Resource Pages

Pool Heat Pump Standard

Free Swimming Pool Heat Pump Research Links

Q. What size heat pump should I get?
A. This depends on several factors, including the size of your pool, a number of the pool's heat loading factors, including location, the use of a transparent pool cover, your desired water temperature, and when during the year you expect to bring the pool up to temperature from a cold start. Try our heat pump sizing calculator. It will accurately tell you what size heat pump you need for your specific pool heat loading as well as heat-up times, and whether a particular heat pump will be able to heat a pool to a specified temperature. It will also give you an excellent indication of heating costs.

Q. Can I install an electric heat pump myself?
A. It is recommended to have a professional install the heat pump, especially if any electrical work is required. However, for the plumbing side, installations are not too difficult if you're handy and the instructions provided by the manufacturer are clear. The most common mistake in heat pump installations is failing to provide a clear path for the spent cold, dry air to be ejected away from the backyard and pool area.

Q. What’s the coldest temperature a heat pump will continue to work at?
A. This depends on the manufacturer and the specific heat pump, but on average, heat pumps can operate in temperatures as low as 0°C and as high as 40°C.

Q. What is a heat pump's COP?
A. The Coefficient of Performance (COP) measures the efficiency of the heat pump. It is defined as the ratio of the heat energy output to the electrical energy input. For example, a COP of 5 means that for every 1kW unit of energy consumed, the heat pump produces 5kW units of thermal heat. COP factors are not the best indicators of heat costs, as manufacturers will typically tout peak COP factors in favorable conditions. You really should use a de-rated SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance), as this takes into consideration the average COP factor the heat pump will run at across the season, as well as de-rating factors for poor airflow (if any), unit aging effects over its life, and air fin cleanliness, all of which will decrease the SCOP factor.

Q. I use salt in my pool rather than chlorine. Will this damage the heat pump?
A. Most modern heat pumps are designed to handle saltwater pools. However, it is important to check with the manufacturer to ensure that your specific model is compatible with saltwater.

Q. Should I cover the heat pump in winter?
A. Yes, a winter cover protects your heat pump from the elements and extends its lifespan. Use a cover designed for your model to ensure proper ventilation and protection.

Q. Can I install a heat pump in my pool plant room?
A. It is generally not recommended to install a heat pump in an enclosed space like a pool plant room because it needs adequate airflow to operate efficiently. However, if you can provide an outlet from the plant room through which the heat pump can eject the air unimpeded into an area that clears it from the pool and the plant room's entrance, then yes, you can install the heat pump in a plant room.

Q. How are the units delivered?
A. Heat pump units are typically delivered by freight carriers on a wooden pallet. Note, they are very heavy, approximately 40-80kg depending on the size of the unit. The delivery driver will have a pallet jack to unload the unit using a tailgate truck. You will need two people to move the unit around. The units are packaged securely to prevent damage during transport, but it's important to inspect the unit upon arrival for any visible damage and take pictures for proof of damage.

Q. Do I still need a pool cover if I have a heat pump?
A. Yes, using a pool cover can significantly reduce heat losses and dramatically lower the running costs of your heat pump by retaining the heat in your pool overnight. If you dislike pool covers, consider using one overnight and/or at the start and end of the pool season, as heating costs without one in the peak of summer are not that high.

Q. Can I combine solar with a heat pump?
A. Yes, combining solar heating with a heat pump can be an efficient way to heat your pool. Using solar to provide heat during sunny days and the heat pump to top up the temperature in the afternoon if solar heating was insufficient is ideal, as heat pumps would then get the benefit of warmer afternoon air temperatures. Solar pool heating systems typically harvest most of their energy by about 3pm, so running a heat pump after that is ideal.

Q. What kind of maintenance is required?
A. Regular maintenance includes cleaning the heat pump's main heat exchange fins and any filters, checking for debris around the unit, performing any self-diagnostics, and having a professional inspect and service the unit annually to ensure it is operating efficiently.

Q. What size pipe outlets are on the units?
A. Pipe outlet sizes can vary depending on the model and manufacturer. Typically, they range from 40PVC to 50PVC. Check your heat pump’s specifications for the exact size.

Q. How fast can the pool be heated by the heat pump?
A. This depends on several factors, including the size of your pool, a number of the pool's heat loading factors, including location, the use of a transparent pool cover, your desired water temperature, when during the year you expect to bring the pool up to temperature, and its starting temperature. Try our heat pump sizing calculator. It will accurately tell you if a particular heat pump will be able to heat a pool to a specified temperature and the time it will take to do so for your specific pool heat loading factors.

Q. How loud is the pump?
A. Noise levels vary by model, but most modern heat pumps are designed to operate quietly, typically around 50-60 decibels, similar to the noise level of a conversation at home.

Q. What are “Inverter Driven” heat pumps?
A. Inverter-driven heat pumps use variable-speed technology to adjust the compressor's speed, providing more precise temperature control and higher energy efficiency compared to traditional on/off heat pumps.

Q. Should I oversize my heat pump for better COP efficiency?
A. Oversizing your heat pump can improve COP efficiency because the unit won't have to work as hard to maintain the desired temperature. However, it's important to balance efficiency with cost and avoid significantly oversizing if you don't plan on swimming during adverse weather conditions.

Q. What kind of electrical socket specification do I need?
A. This depends on the size of the heat pump. It is recommended to leave this aspect to a qualified electrician to ensure correct and safe installation.

Q. Do you ship to any location?
A. No, we only ship to locations that can be serviced by the supplying manufacturer. The listing will indicate which locations a particular heat pump can be shipped to.

Q. How much does it cost to heat a swimming pool?
A. This depends on several factors, including the size of your pool, a number of the pool's heat loading factors, including location, the use of a transparent pool cover, your desired water temperature, and when during the year you want to be swimming. Try our heat pump sizing calculator. It will give accurate running costs for any particular scenario.

Q. Can I plumb my heat pump into an independent line, or do I plumb it into the main filter line?
A. It is generally recommended to plumb the heat pump into the main filter line to ensure proper water circulation and filtration.

Q. How does a heat pump compare to other pool heating options like gas heaters or solar panels?
A. Heat pumps are generally more energy-efficient and cost-effective compared to gas heaters, though gas heaters can heat the pool more quickly. Solar panels are the most environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution in the long run, but they are dependent on sunny weather and may not be sufficient on their own in cooler climates. They also require a decent roof space.

Q. What is the expected lifespan of a heat pump?
A. With proper maintenance, a heat pump can last between 10 to 20 years. Regular servicing and following the manufacturer's guidelines can help maximize the lifespan of the unit.

Q. Are heat pumps environmentally friendly?
A. Yes, heat pumps are considered environmentally friendly compared to gas heaters, but this strongly depends on the source of your electricity, i.e., whether or not it's produced by burning fossil fuels. The most environmentally friendly option is, of course, solar.

Q. Can a heat pump be used for both heating and cooling the pool?
A. Yes, some heat pump models offer both heating and cooling functions, allowing you to maintain a comfortable pool temperature year-round.

Q. How long does it take to install a pool heat pump?
A. Installation time can vary based on the complexity of the setup, but typically it takes between 1 to 2 days. This includes installing the foundation (if required), setting up the unit, connecting the plumbing and electricity, and testing the installation.

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