Swimming Pool Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are fast becoming a popular way to heat your swimming pool due to how cost effective and ecofriendly they are.
Historically, heating a pool usually entailed the use of LPG, propane gas, oil or electric heaters. Heat pumps, however, are much more efficient as they capture heat from the atmosphere and transfer it to the water via a heat exchanger – requiring little electricity to run to do so.
Generally, as the UK temperatures do not provide warm weather conditions for more than a few weeks of the year, having a way to extend your swimming season by heating your pool in one of the most cost-effective ways is a great asset to have.
The measure of efficiency used in the industry is called C.O.P [coefficient of performance].
Essentially this is defined as the ratio between how much useful heat is produced by a certain energy input. For example – if a unit is rated at [4] C.O.P – it means for every KW of energy used, it should produce 4 kw of heat. There are factors that can affect this such as air temperature or humidity but is a much more economical way of providing heating, whilst having a low running cost.
Swimming pool heat pumps are suitable for indoor, outdoor and above ground pools, however before purchasing a unit, we advise that you check the required power supply for it and ensure your existing electrical supply and circuit breaker meets this requirement.
Any electrical work should be completed by a qualified and competent electrician who can advise on cabling amendments, installing a dedicated breaker [ideal] and or fuse/amp upgrades.
Note that larger units [some 34kw and beyond] may require a 3-phase electrical supply. Please consider this when reviewing which heat pump is suitable for your pool.
Swimming Pool Heat Pump Size Guide Chart
The sizing chart below assumes the following:
15’ C / 59F ambient air temperature (realistic for start of season)
Average wind speed 2.5 metres per second
Desired water temperature 30’C / 86F
No water table surrounding pool structure
Minimum running time 10 hours per day
The pool has a suitable cover when not in use
A rectangular shape pool
|
Pool Size [Imperial] |
Gallons |
Pool Size [Metric] |
Litres |
Heater |
||||
|
Length [FT] |
Width [FT] |
Average Depth |
Approx |
Length [M] |
Width [M] |
Average Depth |
Approx |
Minimum size heater required [KW] |
|
16.4 |
9.8 |
6.5 |
6,507 |
5 |
3 |
2 |
30,000 |
9 |
|
22.9 |
9.8 |
8.2 |
11,460 |
7 |
3 |
2.5 |
52,500 |
17 |
|
16.4 |
16.4 |
8.2 |
13,740 |
5 |
5 |
2.5 |
62,500 |
19 |
|
16.4 |
16.4 |
9.8 |
16,420 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
75,000 |
24 |
|
22.9 |
16.4 |
8.2 |
19,180 |
7 |
5 |
2.5 |
87,500 |
29 |
|
29.5 |
13.1 |
9.8 |
23,580 |
9 |
4 |
3 |
108,000 |
34 |
As with all mechanical equipment, unit should be maintained regularly and inspected [serviced] by a competent professional regularly. When the unit is not in use, particularly at the end of the season, the system should be de-winterised to prevent any issues arising in the colder months.
Here at Berkshire Hampshire Heatpumps Ltd – we can install, service and provide continued maintenance on your swimming pool heat pump, with a view of saving you money in the long run.
