Heat pumps are becoming quite popular as a way to heat an in-ground swimming pool. In Michigan they are best if used as an ancillary heat source (in addition to the main gas heater), as a gas heater may be needed for early spring, late fall, and if there is a spa connected to the pool for quick heating times.
We asked our local Pentair Pool Representative, Ingo, to tell us a little bit more about heat pumps, and here are a few notes from that conversation:
Benefits of Heat Pumps
- Heat pumps are efficient ways to heat a pool. Gas versus electrical costs are substantial.
- Titanium heat exchanger assures chemically challenged people longer life.
- Works even when temps get into the 50’s.
- Excellent choice when used in conjunction with an auto cover.
- Perfect match with a gas heater to “maintain” heat throughout summer.
- Longer warranties on both the exchanger and compressor.
Considerations:
- On the down side: Much higher up front cost
- Large unit on the pad
- Tends to spew out quite a bit of condensation. Homeowners think unit is “leaking”
- Takes longer than gas heater to heat up on initial cycle
- Larger breaker (50 amp) needed
As far as heating a pool Sandi, heat pumps are all about expectations. Whereas a propane/gas heater can take a pool from 65 to 80 in about a day, a heat pump typically would be longer to do that same job. That said, once we get to temperature a heat pump would be more energy efficient. Again, married with an auto cover where we don’t have a ton of heat loss overnight, a heat pump can be a great choice.
Heat Pumps
Eco-friendly, energy-efficient heating option
Heat pumps transfer the heat from outside air to your pool, providing the most energy efficient pool and spa heating available in regions where they are practical. Compared to other heaters, heat pumps can operate for up to 80% less. They’re also clean and safe to operate. Talk to your pool professional to determine if a heat pump is appropriate in your region.
Eco Select® Brand Choice
UltraTemp® Heat Pumps transfer heat from the atmosphere to the pool or spa, saving up to 80% in energy costs compared to gas-fired heaters. UltraTemp® has been using EPA-recognized R410A refrigerant nearly a decade before federal mandated requirements.
UltraTemp®
High Performance Heat Pump
The industry’s first heat pump charged with non-ozone depleting refrigerant, R410A
Features
- 100% pure titanium heat exchanger assures corrosion-free performance for extra long life
- LCD control board displays an intuitive, menu-driven readout with easy to follow, full word messages – no more codes.
- AutoSet (time clock over-ride) feature monitors water temperature and turns the water circulation pump on and off as needed to maintain desired pool termperatures
- Automatic defrost feature senses refrigerant temperature and prevents UltraTemp from freezing, allowing the heat pump to operate at even lower temperatures
- Compatible with ALL automated control packages
- Long-life corrosion resistant plastic composite cabinet stands up to severe climates and pool chemicals
- Emerson Copeland Scroll Compressor on 60Hz, single phase models
- ETL listed for safe operation
- Thermostatic Expansion Valve (TXV) controls refrigerant flow for optimum effciency and BTU output over a wider operating range
- Highest effciency available, meets or exceeds existing codes and standards
- BTU and effciency performance independently certified by the Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute, AHRI.
** Rating in accordance with ARI Standard 1160 (air temp F/% relative humidity temp. Fahrenheit)
The AHRI Certified™ Mark is applied only to HVACR equipment and components that have been independently tested to certify manufacturers’ performance claims are accurate. Visit www.ahridirectory.org for a complete list of certified products.
Certifications
ETL-Canada Certified
AHRI Certified
