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One of the best ways to heat your backward pool is with a pool heat pump. It’s durable, energy-efficient and easy to maintain. But with so many pool heat pumps out there, how do you know which one is right for your pool? In this guide, we’ll show you what to look for in a pool heat pump, including size, temperature range and energy rating, and explain how three pool heat pumps compare. We also answer some frequently asked questions, such as how long they take to heat your pool and whether you should run them all day.
How to choose a pool heat pump
Like other pool equipment, it’s important to choose the right pool heat pump for your pool, climate, lifestyle and needs. Here are 9 factors you need to consider:
1. Fixed output or inverter technology
When buying a pool heat pump, there are two types to choose from: fixed output (also known as on/off) and inverter. While they work along the same lines – both draw warm air from the atmosphere to heat your pool – the biggest difference is how they transfer heat. For example, while a fixed output heat pump operates at 100 per cent capacity all the time, an inverter heat pump adjusts its speed to match the heat demand of the pool.
The result? An inverter pool heat pump is quieter and more energy-efficient than a fixed-output pool heat pump. So if you want to minimise noise and running costs, opt for an inverter heat pump. While they’re more expensive to buy, ongoing savings will offset purchase and installation costs.
2. Coefficient of performance (COP)
A heat pump’s efficiency is measured by its coefficient of performance (COP). This is a ratio of the amount of energy produced against the amount of energy consumed. In general, the higher the COP rating, the lower the running costs. So when you’re choosing a heat pump, go for one with a high COP rating, like the Viron Inverter. With a COP of upto 13.57 (varies by model), it can reduce your energy consumption by 15–30 per cent, keeping operating costs low.
Top tip: The heat pump’s refrigerant (a fluid used for heat transfer) can also affect the COP rating. If available, choose a pool heat pump with R32 refrigerant. Not only does it speed up heating times compared to standard R410A refrigerant, but it can also lower carbon emissions and reduce your energy bills by an extra 10 per cent.
3. Size
Size matters when it comes to pool heat pumps. If your pool is large or you live in a cold climate, bigger is usually better. However, if you have a small pool or garden space is limited, or you use a pool cover, a slim-line model like the Top Discharger Inverter may suit your needs. While it’s not as powerful as other AstralPool models, it provides quiet and efficient heating, and the vertical exhaust makes it perfect for tight spaces. However, to accurately size your pool heat pump, it’s best to use our online heat pump calculator or chat with your local pool shop.
4. Durability
Pool heat pumps are often exposed to extreme weather conditions, not to mention chlorine and other pool chemicals. That’s why it’s important to find a unit that can withstand these conditions. First, look for a pool heat pump with a reinforced plastic or aluminium alloy casing. This will ensure your heater lasts longer and continues to look good over the years.
Second, make sure it’s got a titanium heat exchanger. In addition to preventing corrosion from chlorine and other pool chemicals, titanium heat exchangers are almost indestructible. It’s why they have a long warranty that often outlasts the heat pump itself!
5. Noise
Pool heat pumps have a reputation for being noisy, which can be disruptive for young families or neighbours. Some can be as loud as 60 decibels (i.e. the sound of an air conditioner) or as quiet as 39 decibels (i.e. the hum of a refrigerator). Ultimately, the volume of your unit will depend on your brand, size, fan blades, motor and compressor. To keep noise to a minimum, choose a heat pump with levels between 40 and 50, such as the Eco Inverter Heat Pump.
Top tip: If your heater is louder than expected or near a bedroom window, reduce noise levels by using a sound-absorbing pad or planting a hedge to dampen the noise (with proper clearance, of course).
6. Temperature range
Check the temperature range of your unit to make sure it can handle cold temperatures in winter. If you live in a cold climate (hello, Tasmania!) and your pool heat pump isn’t designed to operate in freezing temperatures (e.g. minus 10°C), it might not activate, or worse, ice and frost may damage the unit.
Conversely, if you live in a hot climate, you may find that your water temperature is too warm for comfortable swimming. If that’s the case, choose a heat pump with both heating and cooling (much like a reverse-cycle air conditioner). This will help you turn your pool into a cool oasis in summer and a steamy sauna in winter.
7. Price
Before splashing out on a pool heat pump, make sure it’s within your budget. Pool heat pumps can costs can vary depending on the brand, size and features. Comparatively, running costs are low compared to gas pool heaters. For example, a heat pump can cost $250–$750 to run per year, while gas heating can cost $500–$1,500 per year – that’s a saving of roughly 50 per cent!
Plus, pool heat pumps have a lifespan of about 15–20 years (with proper use and maintenance), compared to 5–10 years for gas heaters. So while you pay more upfront, you could save thousands in replacement costs over the life of your pool.
8. Warranty and service
When buying a pool heat pump, look for a recognised brand with a long warranty period – and don’t forget to read the fine print. Some brands may have a 25-year warranty on the heat exchanger and a 3-year warranty on the compressor. Others may have 5 years on both. Make sure the warranty period is long so you’re not out of pocket if something goes wrong. And don’t forget to check out online reviews to see how products and customer service compare across brands.
9. Extra features
Some pool heat pumps come with additional features, like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. This means you can monitor water temperature or turn the heat pump off with your phone – even when you’re not at home. Another feature to look out for is automation capability. This allows you to sync your unit to an automation system like Viron Connect – so you never come home to a cold pool!
AstralPool heat pump comparison guide
Now that you know what to look for, let’s compare three AstralPool pool heat pumps: the Eco Inverter, Viron Inverter and Top Discharger Inverter. While these heat pumps are all environmentally friendly, built for the Australian environment, whisper-quiet and Wi-Fi compatible, some differences set them apart. Here’s a quick comparison guide:
Eco Inverter | Viron Inverter | Top Discharge Inverter | |
COP | 10 | 12.43–13.57 | 4.55–5.66 |
Refrigerant | R32 | R32 | R410A |
Heat exchanger | Titanium | Titanium | Titanium |
Noise | 39–53 dB | 40–58 dB | 44–60 dB |
Temperature Range (ambient) | -5–43°C | -15–43°C | -15–43°C |
Wi-Fi | Optional | Included | Included |
Exhaust | Horizontal | Horizontal | Vertical |
Size (min.) | 1003 x 403 x 603 mm | 950 x 400 x 620 mm | 723 x 835 x 865 mm |
Viron Connect Compatible | No | No – iHP90, iHP120, iHP170 Yes – iHP195, iHP242, iHP283 | Yes |
Warranty | 5 yrs – compressor 5 yrs – heat exchanger | 5 yrs – compressor 5 yrs – heat exchanger | 5 yrs – compressor 5 yrs – heat exchanger |
FAQs
How does a pool heat pump work?
Unlike a gas or electric pool heater, a pool heat pump doesn’t actually generate heat. Instead, a fan draws warm air into the unit’s evaporator coils, heating up the liquid refrigerant and turning it into a gas. The gas then passes through a compressor, where it gets heated up further before moving to the heat exchanger and heating up your pool water. As the water returns to your pool, the gas inside the compressor reverts to a liquid and starts the process all over again.For more, see our Ultimate Guide to Pool Heat Pumps.
How long does it take for a heat pump to heat your pool?
When you first install a pool heat pump, it can take 24–72 hours to heat your pool water, depending on the dimensions of your pool, heat pump size, climate, water temperature (both starting and final) and whether you use a pool cover. Make sure you allow plenty of heating time if you’re entertaining friends or the kids are going to be on school holidays.
Can you leave a pool heat pump running all the time?
In general, pool heat pumps have a thermostat that shuts off when the target temperature is reached, then turns on again when the temperature drops. This helps the heat pump conserve energy without allowing the temperature to drop too dramatically. If you’re not planning to swim for a few weeks, you can turn off the heat pump and continue running your pump as normal.
However, if you swim often, it’s better to run the heat pump at a lower temperature even when you’re not in the pool. If you normally heat your pool to 28°C, bring it down to 23–25°C. This means you’ll be able to raise the temperature quickly if you want to take a dip.
Top tip: It’s faster and more energy-efficient to increase the water temperature than to heat up a cold pool.
Takeaways
A pool heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat your pool. But before you splash, consider factors like COP rating, size, durability, noise levels, operating temperatures, price, warranty and additional features. This will ensure your pool heat pump works optimally and matches your lifestyle and needs. If you’re still not sure which AstralPool heat pump is right for you, here’s a quick guide:
Choose an Eco Inverter Heat Pump if:
- you want a high COP rating
- you want a faster heating time
- your ambient temperatures stay above -5°C
- you don’t require automation.
Choose a Viron Inverter Heat Pump if:
- you want a very high COP rating
- you want faster heating times
- your ambient temperatures can drop to -15°C
- you need automation compatibility.
Choose a Top Discharge Inverter Heat Pump if:
- you’ve got a small pool or don’t use your heat pump often
- your ambient temperatures can drop to -15°C
- you have limited space
- you need automation compatibility.
Ready to upgrade to an AstralPool inverter heat pump? Then chat to one of our approved dealers today.
