Installing a pool heat pump is a pretty straightforward process. However, it does require some knowledge about how the system works and what precautions must be taken during the installation. If you're in any doubt about fitting such an important piece of equipment, it would be a good idea to engage the services of experienced installation engineers, unless, of course, you have experience as a
swimming pool builder. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Decide where to site the heat pump
The best place to install a heat pump is usually outside. This makes sense because you want to use the outdoor environment to help control air circulation. And wherever you decide to position the pump, make sure you follow the manufacturer's guidelines throughout to maximise the efficiency of the process. As long as the clearances for air are sufficient, an ambient temperature will be easy to achieve.
2. Know what the heat pump does for your outdoor swimming pool
Ground source heat pumps, and other varieties, are used to provide heating and cooling for swimming pools and, in the process, create the ideal water temperature. They work by transferring heat energy from one place to another via the transfer of thermal energy and fluid movement. A heat pump uses electricity to also move heat from outside to inside a building. This process is called exchanging heat.
3.Ensure the pool pump has sufficient clearance
Your swimming pool heat pump needs to draw air in at all times, so you must ensure that the area around it remains uncluttered. Low-hanging trees, accumulated debris and the proximity of garden ornaments can all prevent expended air from recirculating back into the unit. Therefore, it pays to keep the whole area as tidy as possible.
4. Pay attention to the water flow
Most pool heat pumps are designed to run 24 hours per day at full capacity. This requires a certain amount of water to flow into the system. Your actual requirements may vary depending on how often you use your heater. It's important to ensure that the specified water flow rate meets all outdoor pools' needs.
5. Give your pump a solid, sound footing
The base for the common type of heat pump must be level and sound. If you are installing a concrete base, it's generally recommended that you have a layer of compacted gravel, sand or even pea stone under the slab. This will help keep moisture away from the concrete and reduce the risk of dampness problems. Putting the base directly into the ground isn't a good idea because the soil around your house could be very wet and heavy. If you want to install the heat pump under the floor, ensure sufficient space beneath the slab to allow easy access to the pipes. Also, check that the subfloor does not contain electrical wiring or plumbing pipes.
6. Make sure your electrical circuit supply is sufficient
Before purchasing a pool heat pump, it is important to ensure a constant supply of electricity to adequately handle the running and start-up processes. If there are no listed specifications for the current draw of the unit, contact the manufacturer directly for information regarding the maximum load. Heat pumps require a higher electrical current when starting up, although this only lasts a few milliseconds while the compressor starts and then returns to the normal running current. Be sure to pay attention to the manufacturer's stated recommendations about the circuit breaker size needed.
7. Understand how long the pump takes to work
A properly designed heat pump system can heat swimming pool water in about four to five days, although this depends on the size of the pool itself because larger pools can take longer. But how do you know if it’s working correctly? There are some things you can look out for. If it takes longer than five days, there could be a problem. Some factors that can affect the necessary time include the type of pump, the weather conditions and even the amount of direct sunlight involved.
8. Make sure your pump is serviced regularly
It's usually suggested that annual servicing is best for swimming pool heat pumps. This helps maintain efficiency and longevity and ensures that everything runs as smoothly as possible. If something is wrong with your system in the meantime, it's a good idea to call on an expert to diagnose and repair the problem quickly and efficiently.
As long as it's installed correctly and has proper maintenance, your swimming pool heat pump will give you years of excellent service. Whether you use your pool throughout the year or only in the summer, ensuring the water is set to the correct temperature is easy when you have a top-quality heat pump installed. Pool owners will want to ensure the correct swimming pool temperature for every swim they ever have.