Should you buy a heat pump?

Environmental Blog

A heat pump offers an energy efficient way to heat your pool at a cost-effective way. They can last up to ten years and generate minimal noise. Heat pumps are a great home addition.

How heat pumps work 

Heat pumps do not generate heat, but they utilise electricity to capture heat and transfer it from one area of the pool to another. As the pool pump moves the pool's water in and out of the pool, the water is passed through the heat pump that heats it. The heated water is then moved back into the pool and the process repeats. Heat pumps can only work appropriately as long as the temperature outside the pool remains between 45°F to 50°F. The colder the outside air, the more electricity they use to heat the pool. However, since people only use outdoor pools during good weather, the energy bills should not be a problem.

What to consider before buying a heat pump

Heat pumps are more expensive than gas pumps, but they operate at a lower cost due to their increased efficiency. They are also more durable than gas pumps. Before buying a heat pump, look at the size of the heat pump. Before buying a heat pump, have a professional evaluate the correct size of your pool. Factors that may affect the heating capacity of a pool include outside temperatures, the surface area of the pool and humidity levels. Pools built in places that experience cool nights need larger heat pumps.

Benefits of a heat pump

Electric heat pumps produce between 3kw-6kw of heat. They are also cheaper to operate than gas heat pumps. In addition, they are more efficient than solar pool pumps due to the time that solar pumps take to heat up a pool. Moreover, they do not require sunshine to work unlike solar heat pumps nor do they require additional installation. Heat pumps are classified as renewable energy sources as they generate more heat than they utilise, meaning that they are environmentally-friendly

Installation of heat pumps

Heat pumps can be used for both indoor and outdoor pools and require minimal plumbing skills for installation. Indoor installation, however, requires a professional in order to ensure adequate ventilation and airflow as heat pumps work by the use of a fan.  They also require electrical installation aside from the plumbing work. Ensure that the electrical installation is performed by a licensed electrician.

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12 November 2018

Erin's Green Environmental Blog

My name is Erin and over the past couple of years, I have become increasingly interested in environmentalism and the impact that humankind is having on the planet. My interest started when I saw an interesting documentary on the TV which outlined the implications of climate change. I decided there and then that I was going to educate myself. I have been taking steps to reduce my impact on the environment. My most recent step was to install solar panels onto the roof of my property. I am really pleased with this decision so I decided I would write about it here.