 Swimming Pool Heat Pumps
- A Similar Concept to Solar Panels
One common concern of pool owners is how to keep the water at a desirable temperature. Typically, pool owners use heaters
and recently many are turning to using swimming pool heat pumps. These devices are more energy-efficient than
normal pool heaters. They run on electricity and work, not by producing heat, but by capturing it and
then using that heat to warm the water. It is more efficient because it depends on the warmth of the air temperature, which works
well because the regular swimming season is typically during warm weather.
It's a similar concept to using
cheap
solar panels to heat the water for your inside home.
While swimming pool heat pumps are more expensive than pool heaters, their high efficiency gives long-term savings. To indicate efficiency level, a spump uses a unit called COP or co-efficiency of performance, which can range from 3.0 to 7.0.
One with a 7.0 COP generates 7 units of heat per unit of electricity that it consumes. Hence, those with a higher COP are generally more efficient.
Purchasing Swimming Pool Heat Pumps
When shopping for a pool heat pump, one of the first things to consider is the size. You have to determine
the appropriate size for your pool. It is best to get a professional to do this but if you want to get an estimate
of sizing, start by taking the average pool temperature during the coldest month that you are using the pool and then subtract this from your desired pool temperature. The difference is the needed temperature rise. Multiply this with your pools surface area and then multiply again by twelve.
Aside from the factors in the above-mentioned formula, wind and humidity levels,
and also night temperatures also affect the heating capability of swimming pool heat pumps. If you generally have humid or warm nights in your area, a small-size will be right for you.
Pool owners must make sure to install and care for the pump properly to make the most use of it. It is best to hire a professional installation and maintenance service to get the job done
properly. Refer to the owners manual to find out how often you should have it checked. Typically, a pump needs yearly tune-ups.
In addition, owners must maintain the balance of
swimming pool chemicals, remove leaves and other debris that fall into the pool and hose down the external evaporator coil of the swimming pool heat pump to avoid salt build-up if they live near a salt lake, sea or ocean. With proper care, a pool heat pump can last at least 10 years. |