A swimming pool and spa electric heat pump is a large investment. Here are some tips on how to choose the right unit for your application.
Swimming in a cold pool got you down? Now is the time to invest in a new efficient electric heat pump.
These are questions which should be asked when thinking about purchasing a new electric heat pump for your swimming pool or spa.
- How many BTUs will you need?
- Do you have the electric service required for a heat pump?
- Do you have the space to install a heat pump?
- What type of features do I need?
- Plastic or metal cabinet?
- Titanium heat exchanger?
- Digital controls or analog?
Let's try to answer the questions above thus allowing for an educated purchase.
- How many BTUs will you need? - The size of your pool (amount of gallons and surface area square footage will dictate the BTUs required to heat the pool or spa in the most efficient manner. Also take into consideration the amount of strong wind which will effect your pool and whether or not you will be using a pool blanket to help hold the heat into the pool. Check the manufactures recommended sizing chart to help determine the correct size and model for your application.
- Do you have the electric service required for a heat pump? - Most heat pumps required 220Volts of electric and many require separate 50 to 60 amp breakers. Check with your electrician to make sure you have sufficient electrical power to operate your new heat pump.
- Do you have the space to install a heat pump? - Most heat pumps will require a "footprint" area of about 40" x 40" and about 40" in height. Heat pumps need good air circulating space area around the units to allow for peak operation.
- What type of features do I need? Today's heat pumps are manufactured with many different features, some are, Dual thermostats (great for a pool and spa combination), Scroll compressors, Extra quiet fan motors, Extended warranties, Built in water bypass valves, Ability to operate motorized valve actuators, Easy to see readouts with diagnostic trouble shooting messages, and many more. Check the manufactures literature to make sure you are choosing the heat pump with the features best suited for your application.
- Plastic or metal cabinet? Is you pool located in a location which would be better suited for a plastic cabinet?
- Titanium heat exchanger? The heat exchanger is the piece of equipment located inside the heater which the pool water flows through. Titanium is a much more forgiving material in that it allows for a greater tolerance of water chemistry problems. Other types of heat exchanger material is much more susceptible to problems with poor water chemistry. Please note: Proper water chemistry is a must when using any type of pool heater.
- Digital controls or analog? The controls on the heater can be digital electronic or analog. Once again it is best to consult the manufactures literature to gather which would be best for your application.
A swimming pool or spa heat pump is a large investment and should be researched carefully. Purchase the correct unit and you can expect many years of warm enjoyable water to swim and relax in.
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