Frequently Asked QuestionsUpdated a year ago
1. How does a heat pump work?
Unlike traditional induction, resistive, or fuel-based heating solutions, heat pumps use a compressor to extract heat that's already available in the air. As the fan draws air through the coils, the refrigerant inside those coils delivers heat to the compressor. The compressor then "squeezes" this heat into the circulating water and the fan removes the cold air left in the system.
2. How do I know if a heat pump is right for me?
Heat pump efficiency is generally dependent on four factors:
- Air Temperature
- Higher air temperatures allow heat to be pumped into the system more quickly
- At lower air temperatures, the difference between air and water temperatures will result in heat escaping through the surface of the water even more quickly
- Relative Humidity
- Humidity increases contact with the coils and radiating fins, facilitating the transfer of heat into the refrigerant
- Similar to temperature, extremely dry air promotes more surface evaporation-a process that saps large amounts of heat from the pool
- Water Flow Rate
- At very low flow rates, heat will accumulate inside the unit rather than being fully delivered to the pool. This typically results in the unit shutting off prematurely, only to restart again moments later.
- At very high flow rates, the water does not have time to accumulate enough heat, resulting in very weak to no visible heating.
- At optimal flow rates, heating is consistent and within expected ranges.
- Water Volume
- Heat pumps are generally rated for a maximum pool volume, assuming the above three conditions are acceptable. Attempting to use an undersized unit will result in minimal to no heating as the pool will release the heat through its walls and surface more quickly than the unit can provide heat.
In general, climates with high outdoor temperatures and high ambient heat are the ideal environment for heat pump operation when matched with the appropriate equipment.
Heat pumps can still be used in climates with mild to moderate heat and/or humidity, but with a lower usability window in the cooler months.
Frequently cold and/or dry climates are not suitable for most standard heat pumps. In some situations an inverter-style heat pump can overcome these limitations, but often another type of pool heating solution is necessary.
For more information about heat pump suitability, take our quiz on our website or email us at [email protected]
3. Can I install multiple heat pumps on the same pool?
In cases of pools larger than the recommended size, yes. Heat pumps can be installed in series to overcome capacity issues. However, in cases of poor climate conditions, an additional heat pump will often not rectify the issue. As mentioned above, moderately cold or dry air will result in rapid heat loss in a system that is already short on heat or humidity.