Pool Heat Pumps
Get the right heat pump for your pool
Experience the luxury of swimming in your pool all year round. Whether you're cooling off in the summer or warming up during the winter months, a pool offers a refreshing way to exercise or simply relax at any time.
However, maintaining comfortable water temperature during cooler weather can be costly, which might deter pool owners from utilising their swimming pool during the cooler months.
The good news is, cost effective pool heating solutions exist. A pool heat pump is the perfect solution.
Unlike traditional electric or gas heaters, heat pumps absorb heat from the air to warm your pool and maintain the ideal temperature throughout the year. This not only extends your swimming season but also helps lower energy expenses and reduce carbon emissions.
Additionally, when used in conjunction with other pool heating solutions (such as a solar pool cover or liquid blanket), costs associated with heating your pool throughout the year can be significantly reduced.
With so many pool heat pump options on the market, selecting the right one may seem overwhelming. Some factors to consider include the heat pump’s energy output, and what size pump your pool needs to ensure effectiveness and efficiency.
In this article, we’ll break down how pool heat pumps work, why you should conduct a thermal audit, and how to choose the perfect size heat pump for your pool. Let’s dive in!
Here's how it works:
A pool heat pump extracts warmth from the air to heat your pool. They work in a similar fashion to air conditioners and refrigerators, but in reverse.
A fan draws in outside air and passes the air over the evaporator coil, which contains liquid refrigerant. This refrigerant absorbs the heat and turns into gas.
The gas then passes through a compressor, increasing its heat before reaching the condenser. Here, the gas heats the pool water as it circulates through the pump.
Afterward, the gas cools and turns back into a liquid, restarting the cycle.
It’s important to note that pool heat pumps differ from traditional electric or gas heaters. While electric or gas heaters generate their own heat, usually measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) or Megajoules (MJ), pool heat pumps operate based on a Coefficient of Performance (COP). This measures the amount of heat produced per unit of energy used. For example, a heat pump with a COP of 6 delivers six units of heat for every unit of energy consumed. Generally, the higher the COP, the more efficient the heat pump.
Keep in mind that pool heat pumps rely on warm air to function efficiently. This means that while they work well in the spring and summer, their performance can decrease during cooler months, which may lead to higher energy consumption. To minimise operating costs during cooler months, consider using a thermal or solar pool cover. Not only will it help retain heat, but it will also reduce evaporation and protect your pool from environmental debris.
Factors to consider when selecting a heat pump size
If you are considering installing a heat pump, there are several factors to consider when deciding which pump will work most efficiently with your pool. These are:
Pool Size
The size of your pool plays a key role in determining the appropriate size of your heat pump. Larger pools require bigger heat pumps to ensure the water is heated within 48 hours and maintains your desired temperature while you're swimming.
Smaller pools, on the other hand, require a smaller heat pump. However, it is important to note that a larger heat pump running at half speed is often more energy-efficient than a smaller one working at full capacity!
Pool Location
The location of your pool also impacts the type of heat pump you need. For example, if you have an indoor pool, its temperature will generally be more stable, so it won’t require as much heating.
The same applies to pools in sheltered or shaded areas.
However, if your pool is outdoors in an exposed or windy location, it may be more susceptible to temperature fluctuations, meaning both your heat pump and pool will take longer to heat the water, especially if the heat pump is too small.
Climate
Your local climate affects the efficiency of your heat pump. In cooler regions like Canberra or Tasmania, where evening temperatures drop and winters are chillier, your heat pump will need to work harder, taking longer to heat the water and maintain the desired temperature. This can increase energy costs.
In cooler areas, a good solution is to choose a slightly larger heat pump than might ordinarily be required for your sized pool, or use a smaller pump and keep a cover on the pool when it’s not in use.
Frequency of Use
How often you, and how many people, use your pool impacts the size of the heat pump required.
If you swim year-‘round, you’ll need a heat pump designed to handle constant use.
For seasonal use (that is, use typically confined to the warmer months), a smaller unit may be enough to keep the water at a comfortable temperature.
Preferred Temperature
Your preferred water temperature also plays a role in choosing the right heat pump.
Most people enjoy swimming in cool water during the summer, so your heating needs might be relatively minimal. However, if you live in a colder climate or want to swim during the winter months, you’ll need to increase your pool's temperature. Generally, the ideal swimming temperature is between 24°C and 28/29°C, but if you have seniors in your household, you may want to increase this to 30°C. This is because warm water helps prevent muscle cramps and keeps muscles relaxed, which can be especially beneficial for seniors or individuals with arthritis.
Selecting Your Pool Heat Pump
So, you’ve decided to install a heat pump. How do you decide which pump is right for you?
Step 1: Measure the Volume of Your Pool
To start with, you'll need to know the volume of your pool.
If you don’t have this information, grab your measuring tape! Measure the length and width of your pool, then multiply these numbers together to get the surface area. After that, multiply the surface area by the pool's depth to calculate the volume. For example, if your pool is 4m x 6m and has an average depth of 1.5m, the volume would be:
4m x 6m x 1.5m = 36 cubic metres.
Since there are 1000 litres in a cubic metre, your pool would hold roughly 36,000 litres (36 cubic metres x 1000).
Step 2: Calculate the Kilowatts Required for Your Heat Pump
Now that you know your pool's volume, it's time to calculate the required power for your heat pump. To do this, simply call us on 1300 44 7665, or complete this online submission form and the team at Queensland Pool Heaters will use computer modeling to accurately evaluate your required size.
All computer modelling is undertaken using Poolheat software. The Poolheat program, which is in accordance with AS3634, was developed by the University of NSW Mechanical Engineering Department and the CSIRO, and is considered by the industry to be the premium pool heating evaluation program available; however, the predicted performance data must be treated as indicative.
Step 3: Narrow Down Your Selection
After submitting the assessment, you’ll likely have several heat pump options. Now it’s time to compare features to find the best match for your needs and budget.
Consider factors such as:
Heating time
Coefficient of Performance (COP) — noting that a higher COP means lower running costs
Noise levels
Wi-Fi capability
Price
Once you’ve weighed these factors, you’ll be ready to choose the right heat pump for your pool!
Installing Your Pool Heat Pump
For best results, your heat pump should be installed by a pool professional. While you might have plumbing or electrical experience, it’s important not to DIY this installation as it could void your warranty.
Typically, pool heat pumps should be placed outdoors near your filtration system. Make sure there is good airflow around the unit and no obstructions near the fan. If possible, ask your technician to install a bypass valve between the filter and heat pump so you can continue using the filtration system when the heat pump is off.
Once installed, set your desired temperature and turn on the pump to activate the heating process. The heat pump won’t start working until it detects water flowing through the unit. Once the set temperature is reached, the pump will efficiently maintain the temperature.
Keep in mind that heat pumps may take a couple of days to heat the water to the set temperature, especially if you’re using it for the first time or reopening the pool after winter. However, once the water reaches your set temperature, maintaining it will be easy.
How to Maintain Your Pool Heat Pump
Once your heat pump is set up and running, it will require minimal maintenance. However, there are a few key things you should check regularly:
Check the Air Intake:
Ensure the air intake is clear of debris such as sticks and leaves. Blockages can reduce efficiency and increase energy bills. Clear debris using gloves or a vacuum cleaner.Inspect Water Inlets and Outlets:
If you notice water pooling around the inlets or outlets, it could indicate either condensation or a leak. Use chlorine strips to test the moisture—if there's no chlorine present, it’s just condensation, which is normal. If chlorine is present, it could indicate a leak. In that case, contact a pool technician to have the issue addressed.Ensure Proper Water Temperature:
If the pool isn’t warm enough, check your thermostat to ensure the temperature is set correctly. Low water flow can also affect heating, so check your pool filter for debris. Cleaning the filter should restore water flow and improve heating efficiency.Annual Professional Check-Up:
Have a pool professional inspect your heat pump every year. This ensures your system is running efficiently, identifies hidden issues, and keeps your unit clean for better performance.
Pro Tip: If you run your heat pump above 28°C, algae and bacteria may grow rapidly, which can deplete your sanitizer and result in green water. To avoid this, consult your local pool shop for advise on how to be best maintain crystal clear pool water. We recommend www.waterpropools.com.au