Why Choose a Heat Pump?
Heat pumps outperform traditional solar heating by:
✅ Weather independence: Heat water even on cloudy days.
✅ Energy efficiency: Deliver 5–8x more heat energy than the electricity they consume (COP ≥ 5).
✅ Space-saving design: Compact units fit discreetly near your pool.
✅ Extended swim seasons: Start swimming earlier in spring and linger into fall.
How It Works:
- Absorbs warm air from the environment.
- Compresses the air to amplify heat.
- Transfers heat to pool water via a titanium exchanger.
- Cools and releases air back outdoors.
Key Features to Consider
1. Heating Capacity
- Formula: Minimum kW = Pool Volume (m³) ÷ 4
Example: 40 m³ pool → 10 kW pump. - Temperature Dependency:
- 25°C air: 100% efficiency (heats ~0.25°C/hour).
- 15°C air: Efficiency drops 30–40%.
2. Noise Levels
- 34 dB at 10 meters – quieter than a library whisper (40 dB).
- Look for inverter models for near-silent nighttime operation.
3. Installation Requirements
Parameter | Specification |
---|---|
Location | Outdoor, horizontal stable base (concrete preferred) |
Distance from Pool | ≥3.5 meters |
Clearance | 1m (intake side), 3m (exhaust) |
Pro Tip: Install near midday sun exposure for peak efficiency.
Optimizing Performance
Do’s
- Use a solar cover to reduce heat loss by 70%.
- Install a bypass valve to regulate water flow.
- Run during daytime (10 AM–4 PM) for maximum output.
Don’ts
- Oversize the pump without upgrading the filter flow rate.
- Ignore pH balance (ideal: 7.2–7.6) – corrosive water damages exchangers.
Myth vs. Fact
Myth: Bigger pumps always heat faster.
Fact: Oversized pumps strain filters and waste energy. Match kW to pool volume.
Myth: Heat pumps work poorly in cold climates.
Fact: Modern models operate efficiently down to 5°C (air source) or year-round (geothermal).
Installation Checklist
- Confirm filter pump flow rate matches heat pump’s nominal water load.
- Use pre-fab bypass kits for easy plumbing.
- Secure to a vibration-dampening base.
- Schedule annual maintenance (coil cleaning, refrigerant checks).
Top Brands Compared
Brand | Best For | Noise (dB) | COP |
---|---|---|---|
Polytropic | Large pools (50m³+) | 36 | 5.2 |
EcoHeat Pro | Energy-conscious users | 32 | 6.1 |
HydroTherm | Cold climates | 38 | 4.8 |
FAQs
Q: Can I run it at night?
A: Yes, but daytime operation at 25°C+ air temp saves 30% energy.
Q: How much does it cost to run?
A: ~€0.15–€0.25 per m³ daily (varies by climate and insulation).