How to Heat a Pool with a Heat Pump?

Building a swimming pool is expensive, and heating costs are different either. A brilliant and inexpensive way to approach this is by using a heat pump.  Unlike electric heating, a heat pump can save you up to 85 % on heating costs. So how does it work?

Installing a pool heat pump is quite simple and can be completed by an experienced installation engineer or the owner.  Nonetheless, make sure you follow the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid invalidating your warranty. This guide shares tips on how to best heat a pool with a heat pump:

The operation

Air source pool heat pumps utilize electricity to collect heat from the air and then distribute it to different places in the pool. They do not actually create heat. When the pool’s pump moves water in the pool, the water goes through the heat pump heater and filter. A fan in the heat pump draws in air from outside and redirects it over an evaporator coil.

The coil has a liquid refringent that absorbs heat from the air and changes it into gas. The warm air then goes through a compressor where heat increases considerably, resulting in the gas entering the condenser.

The condenser then moves the heat from the gas to the circulating pool water via the heater. As the warm gas moves through the condenser, it changes into liquid and then goes back to the evaporator, and then the entire process starts again.

High-efficiency heat pumps usually use scroll compressors, while standard units use reciprocal compressors. Most pool heaters perform well, provided the temperature outside is between 45ºF–50ºF range.

If the air outside is cooler, it means the pump will use more energy. Nonetheless, this should not be an issue if you have an outdoor pool and use it primarily during milder and warm weather.

The colder the outside air they move in, the more power they use. However, because many people use outdoor swimming pools during mild and warm weather, this normally isn't a problem.

Location

It is good to choose a strategic location for your pump.  Avoid installing it in a closed space such as a garage or a shed with poor ventilation.  Outside in direct sunlight is excellent. If you don't have a place, consider creating one that suits the unit's size, shape, and weight. It can be a block plinth or concrete.  

Just ensure that the stand is not directly connected or attached to your house as this can transmit noise and vibration inside, which can be annoying. The base of the stand should be on the same level or a bit higher than the filter system pad.

Operating a Heat with a Pool Heater

Now, after the pump is wired by a licensed plumber and electrician, you are good to go.  Just remember to read your owner’s manual because different pumps have different controls. Make sure all the valves are open to allow water into the heat pump.  In some cases, the valves may appear open when they are close.  

The pump will only work if the water pump is running.  There are scenarios where the heater can operate if the water pump is not running, but this is very rare and only available on specific plumbing installations where there is siphoning; this must be corrected, however.

Also, when the machine is on heating mode, ensure that the air coming out from the top is less, not warmer than the ambient air. This is a surefire indicator that the heat pump is working correctly.  If the heater still runs even after switching off the water pump, turn the entire system off and call the manufacturer or a reliable technician.  

This can occur when you set the heater below the pool water level, or the flow switch has a problem. Most heat pumps shut down below 50 degrees Fahrenheit and then start to continue when the temperature rises.

There are some units, though, with an active hot Freon defrost that will still run even when the temperature drops below  50 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also enhance your heat pump’s performance during winter by using a solar blanket on water.  

The solar blanket is essential for maintaining high temperatures. In fact, if it is possible, run the pump for 72 hrs. continuously or when it is warm to allow the pool temperature to get to the desired level.  

Note that if you run the heat pump for a while, chances are you will start seeing some condensed water accumulate around the pad or the unit. If this is unusual, turn off the heat pump but keep the water pump running.

If the condensation dries up after a few minutes, the pump is fine, and water is not leaking. Another way to test if the water is caused by leakage is to dip test strips into the condensed water. If they show chlorine is absent, then there are no leaks.

Must a Pool Heat Pump Be in the Sun?

Heat pumps are mostly about air supply. So, whether you locate it directly in the sun or in the shade, the unit will work just fine as long as there is sufficient airflow.

How Long Does It Take to Warm up a Pool?

Various factors determine this. For instance, outdoor temperature, how much heat is distributed by the pool, and the pool's size.  Nonetheless, average-sized pumps usually raise water temperature by three to four degrees a day.  Just make sure the heat is retained once the pool gets to your desired temperature.  You can use a high-quality pool cover for this.

Bottom Line

With enough power and some plumbing work, you can install your heat pump in a few hours. However, if you are starting afresh, it is usually a good idea to go for a professional installer. This means your installation will comply fully with warranty terms.

Electrical work must also be done by a certified professional or service so that you comply with all the state and local codes.  Correct grounding and bonding are also necessary, and once in place, the unit will serve you well at a cost that will not break the bank.

Also of Interest: 

• Are Pool Heat Pumps Worth It? How Do They Work?

• The Right Way to Install Swimming Pool Air Source Heat Pumps

• Air to Water Swimming Pool Heat Pumps vs. Traditional Pool Water Heaters

• What Size Heat Pump Do I Need for My Pool?

• How Does a Pool Heat Pump Work in Winter?

• How Much Power Does a Swimming Pool Heat Pump Use?

• How Long Does It Take to Heat Pool Water with a Heat Pump?

• How Much Is a Swimming Pool Heat Pump?