How to choose a Heat Pump Pool Heater

Key Takeaways

Electric heat pump pool heaters have a higher upfront cost than gas heaters but significantly lower annual running costs and a longer operational lifespan, making them more economical over time.
Heater sizing is based on the pool's surface area and the temperature difference between the desired pool temperature and the average air temperature during the coldest month of use.
Additional factors that increase the required heater size include high wind exposure at the pool surface, low humidity, and consistently cool night temperatures — pools in more exposed locations need a larger unit.
Using a pool blanket reduces heat loss significantly and can allow you to install a smaller, less expensive heat pump than would otherwise be needed.
Always consult a pool technician for an accurate heater size recommendation specific to your pool — the variables involved make a professional assessment more reliable than general estimates.

A pool heat pump is a worthwhile investment if you are looking to get more out of your backyard pool by extending your swimming season.

How to choose a Heat Pump Pool Heater

There are many variables to consider when choosing a new Heat Pump Pool Heating system.

The first step is to choose the type of pool heater. Each heating system offers its own benefits which should be put into consideration when choosing the best heating system for your pool. These types include:

Solar Pool Heating
Electric Pool Heater
Gas Heat pump

While the initial outlay of an electric heat pump pool heater is more than a gas heater they typically have a much lower annual operating cost, as they offer a more efficient system. With proper maintenance, electric heat pump pool heaters will last longer than their gas counterpart, also saving you money in the long run.

Other aspects you should consider is the size, efficiency and cost of the system

What size pool pump heater do I need?

It is best to consult with a pool technician to get accurate analysis for your specific swimming pool to determine pool heater size.

Sizing a heat pump pool heater involves many factors. Basically, a heater is sized according to the surface area of the pool and the difference between the pool and the average air temperatures. Other factors also affect the heating load for outdoor pools, such as wind exposure, humidity levels, and cool night temperatures. Therefore, pools located in areas with higher average wind speeds at the pool surface, lower humidity, and cool nights will require a larger heater

To calculate an approximate heater size for an outdoor swimming pool, follow these steps:

Determine your desired swimming pool temperature.
Determine the average temperature for the coldest month of pool use.
Subtract the average temperature for the coldest month from the desired pool temperature. This will give you the temperature rise needed.
Calculate the pool surface area in square metres.