The best option for aboveground pools are 50-75K BTU heat pumps, and 95-140K BTU heat pumps are better for in-ground pools. Installing a heat pump that is too small can cause it to become overworked, not keep the pool as warm as you like, or take long periods of time to heat up to temperature. Pool heat pumps are rated by the amount of BTUs that they generate, the smallest being around 50,000 BTU and going up to 150,000 BTUs. Most important, however, would be the size of the heater. Features such as digital display and self-diagnostics are common, as are Scroll compressors, titanium heat exchanger, or the ability to heat or cool the water. When you consider the wide array of heat pump models available, from over a dozen manufacturers, choosing just one can be difficult. Smaller models may only give you a 10-15 degree rise during cooler weather.ĭecide if you want any of the high-end features, such as the chill feature, which removes excess heat from the water, or want extra low temperature operation. If you are looking for a 20-degree temperature rise, go with the largest models for an average size pool. The 4 Ps are phases of a swimming pool heat pump installation, and they are: Purchase, Placement, Plumbing and Power.īuying a heat pump is not overly complicated, but you want to size your heat pump correctly. Here’s an example of a heat pump project progression. The heat created is essentially free, absorbed from the outside air and transferred into your pool water.ĭepending on outside air temperature, your cost per kilowatt-hour and whether a pool cover is used, heat pumps can keep a pool in the mid-80s for $50-$150 per month. Pool heat pumps use small amounts of electricity to compress a refrigerant and rotate a fan. Sure, gas heats faster, but even at today’s lower prices, a gas pool heater can burn through thousands of dollars in natural or propane gas every year. A pool heat pump is the best choice for economical, on-demand pool heating.

Install 50 amp breaker