Introduction
Swimming pool heat pumps are an increasingly popular choice for pool owners looking to extend their swimming season. But how do they work? How do you calculate the right size for your pool? And what are the best practices for maximizing their efficiency? In this blog, we’ll explore these questions and introduce you to TURBRO's latest pool heat pumps, designed to keep your pool warm well into the fall.
How Does a Swimming Pool Heat Pump Work?
A pool heat pump operates by extracting heat from the air and transferring it to the pool water. It functions similarly to an air conditioner but in reverse.
The process involves:
- Heat Capture: A fan draws in outside air, which then passes over an evaporator coil containing a liquid refrigerant.
- Heat Transfer: The refrigerant absorbs the heat from the air and turns into a gas.
- Compression: The gas is compressed, raising its temperature.
- Heat Exchange: The hot gas flows through a heat exchanger, where the heat is transferred to the pool water.
- Cycle Repeat: After the heat exchange, the gas cools down, condenses back into a liquid, and the cycle repeats.
This efficient process allows the heat pump to generate several times more heat energy than the electrical energy it consumes, making it a cost-effective solution for pool heating.
How to Calculate Heat Pump Size for Your Swimming Pool
Choosing the right size heat pump is crucial for efficient heating and maintaining optimal water temperature. To determine the appropriate size for your pool, you need to consider factors such as pool volume, desired temperature, and local climate. Here's how to calculate the pool's volume, which helps in selecting the right heat pump:
- Calculate Pool Volume
For Elliptical Pools:
Formula: Capacity (gallons) = π × Long Axis Radius × Short Axis Radius × Depth × 7.48
*π≈3.14
Long Axis Radius and Short Axis Radius are measured in feet
Depth is typically 4.5 feet
7.48 is the conversion factor from cubic feet to gallons
For Circular Pools:
Formula: Capacity (gallons) = π × (Radius2) ×Depth × 7.48
*π≈3.14
Radius is measured in feet
Depth is typically 4.5 feet
7.48 is the conversion factor from cubic feet to gallons
- Choose the Right Heat Pump Size
Once you have the pool volume, you can select a heat pump based on the BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating suitable for your pool size. Typically, a heat pump's capacity is measured in BTUs, and you should consult with a professional to match the heat pump’s capacity to your pool’s volume and desired temperature increase.
Model | BTU | Gallon | Areas |
Manatee M20 | 20,000 BTU | 6,500 | up to 15 foot round or 10 by 20 foot oval |
Beluga B50V | 52,200 BTU | 16,000 | up to 26 foot round or 20 by 30 foot oval |
Beluga B75V | 75,000 BTU | 21,100 | up to 28 foot round or 20 by 40 foot oval |
Extending Your Swimming Season with a Heat Pump
As summer fades and the crispness of fall sets in, many pool owners reluctantly prepare to close their pools for the season. However, one of the greatest benefits of a swimming pool heat pump is its ability to extend your swimming season, allowing you to continue enjoying your pool well into the cooler months. By keeping your pool's water comfortably warm even as the air temperature drops, a heat pump can add several weeks—or even months—to your swim time.
Season Extension Tips:
To make the most of your heat pump during the fall, consider these strategies:
- Use a Pool Cover: A high-quality pool cover is essential for retaining heat, particularly during the cooler nights of fall. By reducing heat loss, a cover makes it easier for your heat pump to maintain the desired water temperature, ultimately saving energy and reducing operating costs. Think of it as a cozy blanket that helps your pool stay warm and inviting.
- Adjust Settings for Night: While it’s tempting to keep your pool at a constant temperature 24/7, lowering the temperature slightly during times when you're not swimming, like at night, is a smart way to save energy. Before bedtime, you can easily adjust settings from your smartphone with the APP smart control feature. When you wake up, simply raise it again to ensure the water is perfect for your next swim.
- Optimize Pump Timing: To maximize the efficiency of your heat pump, consider running it during the warmest parts of the day. When the air temperature is higher, the heat pump can operate more efficiently, drawing more warmth from the air and transferring it to the pool water. By synchronizing your pump’s operation with the natural rhythm of the day, you can enjoy warmer water with less energy consumption.
Conclusion
A swimming pool heat pump is an excellent investment for extending your swimming season and enjoying a warm pool well into the fall. With the right size and best practices in place, you can maximize efficiency and comfort. Turbro’s latest pool heat pumps offer the reliability and advanced features you need to keep your pool at the perfect temperature, making every swim a pleasure, no matter the season.
