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Are you fed up with only being able to enjoy your pool six months out of the year, but you don’t want to pay an arm and a leg each month to keep it warm and swimmable? If so, a pool heat pump may be just what the pool doctor ordered!
Unlike solar pool heaters which directly generate heat, heat pumps capture heat, making them a much more cost-effective pool heating solution. However, heat pumps cost a pretty penny upfront, so you can’t just pick one out in a minute and be on your merry way.
Lucky for you, you’ve come to the right place to discover the best pool heat pumps for you and learn all about these eco-friendly heating solutions. This guide and our unbiased pool heat pump reviews will point you in the right direction and have you enjoying a comfortably warm pool in no time at all. Enjoy!
Pool Heat Pumps: My Top Picks
Hayward W3HP21404T HeatPro 140,000 BTU Pool Heat Pump for In-Ground Pools
If you like the looks, efficiency, and awesome operation of the Hayward HP50TA Titanium but have a large in-ground pool and need even more BTUs, the Hayward HeatPro Titanium 140,000 BTU Pool Heat Pump may have your name all over it.
Engineered to provide years of unrivaled heating performance for residential pools, it’s one of the absolute best pool heat pumps being made today and deserves some serious consideration despite its higher price.
Hayward heat pumps are recommended in nearly all pool heat pump reviews, making the brand a household name and one of the most reputable in the business. Although there are a variety of excellent Hayward pool heaters and heat pumps, the Hayward HP21404T HeatPro Titanium 140,000 BTU Pool Heat Pump is without a doubt one of the brand’s best.
This industrial-quality pool heat pump puts out an impressive 140,000 BTUs and can raise the water temperature of a large in-ground pool by up to 25 degrees in just a few days.
With all of the first-class features, you would expect on a Hayward as well, such as stainless steel hardware and a titanium heat exchanger, the compact yet extremely powerful Hayward HeatPro Titanium is hands down one of the best in the business.
With a price tag that makes some pool owners do a double-take for all the reasons, the Hayward HeatPro Titanium 140,000 BTU Pool Heat Pump isn’t for everybody. However, if you demand nothing but the best and want complete control over the temperature of your pool, this powerful pool heat pump is definitely the way to go.
Product Details
- Swimming pool heat pump
- 140,000 BTU output
- Titanium heat exchanger
- Corrosion-resistant Ultra-Gold evaporator fin
- Profiled fan blade and acoustic compressor cover
- UV-resistant injection-molded exterior panels
- Digital LED control panel
Pros
- Super high BTU output for a heat pump
- Capable of heating the largest of pools
- Modern good looks
- Compact design
- Easy to use
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Higher upfront cost and more costly to run, so only ideal for larger pools
FibroPool Swimming Pool Heat Pump
Most pool heat pump reviews only recommend the newest and most expensive models. However, not all pool heat pumps need to be state-of-the-art, and not all swimming pool owners want to shell out several thousand dollars for a modern, cutting-edge unit.
If you fall into this category, the Fibroheat Electric Heat Pump may be for you. Designed to heat well, use little energy, and produce 55,000 BTUs, it’s a terrific low-tech option that just plain works.
It may not look like much, but the Fibropool Electric Swimming Pool Heat Pump is one of the most cost-efficient and environmentally friendly pool heat pumps being made today.
While electricity usage is an obvious priority with Fibropool, it’s far from weak. In fact, the 55,000 BTU heat pump is able to raise the water temp of a 15,000-gallon in-ground pool by as much as 10 degrees in under a day.
Although it’s big and not the most modern-looking heat pump around, it’s reasonably priced, efficient, and will heat your pool day in and day out in true workhorse fashion. Plus, it’s easy to install, super quiet, and will save you a ton on your monthly utility bill.
If you’re reading these best pool heat pump reviews hoping to find a quality, no-nonsense heat pump that works as advertised and won’t break the bank, the Fibropool Electric Swimming Pool Heat Pump is hard to beat. With a rotary compressor, titanium heat exchanger, digital control panel, weatherproof construction, and more, it definitely provides the most bang for the buck.
Product Details
- Swimming pool heat pump
- 55,000 BTU output
- 220V operation
- Titanium heat exchanger
- Flow switch
- Weatherproof
- Digital display
- 1 1/2-inch connection
Pros
- Low operating cost
- Very energy-efficient
- Easy to install
- Durable construction
- Produces excellent heat for an electric model
- Less expensive than many other pool heat pumps
Cons
- Not the most pleasant pool heat pump to look at
Hayward W3HP50HA2 HeatPro Heat Pump
The Hayward W3HP50HA2 HeatPro Heat Pump may only produce 50,000 BTUs, but the top-quality heat pump has garnered tons of positive Hayward heat pump reviews and is capable of heating a 15,000-gallon pool to 85 degrees in just a couple of days. Featuring an impressive 84 percent energy efficiency rating, this Hayward is super energy-efficient as well.
Although it may cost more than gas pool heaters with greater BTU outputs, the savings provided by this top-of-the-line heat pump will allow it to begin paying for itself from day one. It’s certainly one of the best pool heat pump options on the market today.
Unlike large solar and industrial pool heaters that can weigh a ton and require professional installation, the Hayward HP50TA Titanium Pool Heat Pump is pleasantly compact and weighs a mere 120 pounds.
Combined with its straightforward design, it’s one of the easiest solar pool heaters to install. When up and running, it performs like a champ as well, earning it the top spot in this and many other pool heat pump reviews.
As a testament to its quality, the Hayward W3HP50HA2 HeatPro Heat Pump features a durable Ultra-Gold evaporator coil, premium titanium heat exchanger, tough polypropylene exterior, and digital LED controls, allowing you to heat your pool to the exact degree you want a day in and day out.
Thanks to its high heat output, compact design, durable construction, modern controls, and quiet operation, the Hayward W3HP50HA2 HeatPro Heat Pump is truly one of the best around. If you’re looking for a great all-around heat pump for your backyard oasis, this is definitely the one for you.
Pros
- Compact and easy to install
- Able to warm up a pool by over 20 degrees
- Titanium heat exchanger
- Durable, corrosion-resistant design
- Modern good looks
- Easy-to-use LED controls
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Pricey for its BTU output
Hayward W3HP21404T HeatPro 140,000 BTU Pool Heat Pump
For over a century and counting, TRANE has been making high-quality heating and cooling products, earning it a rock-solid reputation for being one of the most innovative, efficient, and reliable brands in the industry.
Recently, the storied brand has turned its attention to the swimming pool market and proven it’s here to stay with the release of the TRANE TR21474T 140,000 BTU Titanium Residential Pool Heat Pump. Designed to compete with the best in the business, this powerful state-of-the-art TRANE is hard to ignore.
Recognized in several pool heat pump reviews for its durability, reliability, and performance, the TRANE TR21474T 140,000 BTU Titanium Residential Pool Heat Pump is arguably the best swimming pool heat pump your hard-earned money can buy.
With advanced technology and a range of excellent features like electronic temperature control, a dual thermostat, a crystal clear LED display, and a premium titanium condenser, this powerfully efficient yet super quiet TRANE is an ideal option for any pool owner.
Whether you’re putting in a new in-ground pool or simply interested in upgrading your current pool with a state-of-the-art heat pump system, the TRANE TR21474T 140,000 BTU Titanium Residential Pool Heat Pump is arguably the best pool heat pump you could ask for. It’s durable, reliable, cost-efficient, easy to use, and works like a dream. What else could you honestly ask for?
Pros
- Very efficient
- Modern good looks
- Easy to use
- Built to last
- Great LED control panel
- Quiet operation
- Very powerful and heats like a champ
Cons
- Maybe too many heaters for some pools
- Not the cheapest option
Pentair 460931 UltraTemp 90 High Performance Pool Heat Pump
Switching things up and moving from one great brand to another, the Pentair 460932 UltraTemp 110 I High-Performance Pool Heat Pump provides the efficiency, reliability, and convenience pool owners have come to expect from a premium heat pump.
Featuring a compact design, incredible energy efficiency, rugged corrosion-resistant exterior, and a whole lot more, this Pentair can quickly heat nearly any size pool in no time at all.
The Pentair 460932 UltraTemp 110 I High-Performance Pool Heat Pump provides best-in-class efficiency and performance combined with eco-friendly operation, resulting in one of the best pool heat pump options available.
Best of all, the impressive Pentair is packed full of smart performance and convenience features, such as a cutting-edge compressor, easy-to-use LCD display, titanium heat exchanger, and more.
You could spend hours reading swimming pool heat pump reviews in search of the right one for you and your pool, but you’ll be lucky to run across another pool heat pump with as many top-quality features as the Pentair UltraTemp 100.
If you’re serious about comfort and don’t mind paying a little more now for a lot less later, you can’t go wrong with this powerful and efficient Pentair.
Product Details
- Swimming pool heat pump
- 110 percent titanium heat exchanger
- Emerson Copeland scroll compressor
- Thermostatic expansion valve
- Auto defrost
- AutoSet function
- LCD display and control board
- Durable corrosion-resistant exterior
Pros
- Class-leading energy efficiency
- Easy-to-read LCD display
- Compact design
- Very durable
- Cost-efficient
- Able to heat almost any pool
- Automation system compatibility
Cons
- A little pricier than similar options
- Utilitarian exterior design
What Factors to Consider When Choosing a Heat Pump?
As you can see from the pool heat pump reviews above, there’s a wide variety of heat pumps available for all types of pools. However, in order to choose the best pool heat pump for you and your pool, there are some important factors you need to consider, such as:
Efficiency
It’s easy to get stuck on the initial cost of a pool heat pump, but efficiency is equally important because it gives you insight into its performance and the actual cost to run.
In fact, a pool heat pump’s efficiency will allow you to calculate its daily, monthly, and lifetime operating costs.
Heat Exchanger
The primary role of a heat exchanger is to transfer warmth from a condenser to the pool water. Traditional heat pumps utilize copper or Cupro-nickel heat exchangers due to their inexpensiveness and ability to efficiently transfer heat.
However, many heat pump manufacturers now use titanium heat exchangers. Although titanium exchanger tubing is more expensive, it’s also more durable and corrosion-resistant.
Compressor
Heat pumps use compressors to condense refrigerant into hot gas, which is then used to heat the pool water. There are two types of compressors found on heat pumps: scroll and reciprocating.
Reciprocating compressors were once quite common due to their compact size and less expensive cost.
However, due to their limited efficiency, most manufacturers have replaced them with scroll compressors, which utilize metal scrolls instead of pistons to compress refrigerants. Scroll compressors are much more energy-efficient and have fewer moving parts, making them quieter, more durable, and less expensive to operate in the long run.
Overall Costs
Many pool owners only consider the purchase price when shopping for a heat pump and determining its cost, but the efficiency of a heat pump and its overall costs are even more important.
From installation and operating costs to maintenance and repairs, the overall cost of a heat pump will far exceed its purchase price in the long run and should be seriously considered when reading pool heat pump reviews and choosing the best one for your pool.
Warranty
A warranty can help minimize repair costs and help save you money whenever a repair is needed. Most quality pool heat pumps come with a warranty, but not all warranties are created equal.
Therefore, it’s not only smart to choose a pool heat pump with a more extended warranty, but it’s important to read and understand the warranty as well.
A quality pool heat pump is a wise investment, but it’s also a big one. However, by considering these factors, understanding your needs, and giving the pool heat pump reviews above at least one more run-through, you’re guaranteed to pick the very best pool heat pump for you, your family, and your backyard oasis.
Pool Heat Pump Advantages & Disadvantages
Pool heat pumps utilize electricity to semi-passively heat your pool. While they’re often more expensive than gas, electric, or solar pool heaters, the clever engineering of pool heat pumps allows them to perform better than electric pool heat pumps and nearly as well as less efficient gas models, providing you with great performance and monthly savings.
Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of this smart pool heating solution:
Energy-efficiency
The best pool heat pump reviews always mention the energy efficiency of pool heat pumps and for a good reason. Heat pumps are extremely energy-efficient and inexpensive to operate. In fact, most pool owners report an average monthly savings of $50 to $100 when switching from a gas pool heater.
Year-round heating
Since water-source heat pumps don’t rely on the outside air temperature to operate, they’re more efficient and can also be used any time of year. This allows you to extend the swimming season and enjoy a comfortably warm pool well into the winter months.
Durable
Pool heat pumps may be pricey, but they’re also durable and made to perform for decades. In fact, most pool heat pumps are built to last for up to 20 years or longer.
Environmentally-friendly
Solar pool heaters are always mentioned when the topic of pools and eco-friendliness arises. However, pool heat pumps also utilize renewable energy to produce and transfer heat. They also don’t emit any harmful gases, making pool heat pumps and environmentally friendly pool heating solutions.
Purchase price
Whether you’re shopping for the absolute best pool heat pump or simply want a serviceable model that won’t let you down, you should be prepared to spend more upfront for a pool heat pump than any other type of pool heater. While the upfront cost of a pool heat pump is often quickly offset by lower operating costs, it’s certainly something to consider.
Dependent on nature
While many of today’s quality pool heat pumps are water-source and can be enjoyed year-round, some are air-sourced and not suitable for use during the colder winter months.
Take longer to heat
Unlike gas pool heaters, pool heat pumps take a while to heat up larger pools.
FAQ
How does a pool heat pump work?
A pool heat pump utilizes electricity and ambient water or air temperature to perform an energy exchange and heat pool water. It’s similar to an air conditioner but works in reverse. Rather than directly using electricity to generate heat via a heating element, a pool heat pump uses electricity to move water or air over a refrigerated evaporator coil.
The coolant in the coil is heated and transferred to a compressor for further heating before passing through a condenser and exchanging heat with colder pool water.
Can a pool heat pump be used for any pool?
Pool heat pumps work great, but as you know from this guide and the swimming pool heat pump reviews above, they’re not an ideal solution for every pool.
Pool heat pumps generate approximately the same BTU output as small gas pool heaters, so they may not be ideal for some large in-ground pools.
Pool heat pumps also require a dedicated electrical line similar to that needed for a hot tub, which isn’t available for every home.
Since heat pumps work best in sunny, warm climates and should be installed in an area with direct sunlight, they’re also not ideal for pools with shaded backyards.
How do you determine the right size pool heat pump for your pool?
Many pool heat pump reviews only mention models with the highest BTU outputs because of their performance and higher price tags.
However, different pool sizes require different-sized pool heat pumps. Fortunately, you can determine the right size pool heat pump for your pool by performing a few basic calculations.
First, you’ll need the surface area of your pool, which can be roughly determined by measuring its length x width.
Once you know this, you can plug it into the following formula to get the proper BTU output needed per hour to successfully heat your pool: (surface area) x (water temp – air temp) x 12.
What’s better, a pool heat pump or a gas pool heater?
Gas pool heaters easily provide the highest BTU output, with many residential models generating up to 400,000 BTUs. This allows them to quickly heat up nearly any sized pool.
However, gas pool heaters are also less efficient and cost a pretty sum to run. In fact, running an average-sized 250,000 BTU gas pool heater is similar to having a dozen gas stoves running full blast.
Pool heat pumps, on the other hand, perform nearly as well as gas pool heaters but are much more energy-efficient, saving pool owners hundreds and even thousands of dollars each year. Although they cost more upfront and are slightly less powerful, their energy efficiency is hard to ignore.
Conclusion
If you’re one of the many pool owners who’ve read this entire guide in order to learn all about pool heat pumps and find the best one for their pool, you should give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back!
Why you might ask? Well, because you now know more than enough about pool heat pumps to pick the perfect one for you and your pool. Sure, you could spend hours more reading reviews and debating taking the financial plunge.
However, there’s nothing worse than taking a polar plunge into an ice-cold pool, so go ahead and use what you’ve learned to pick out a great pool heat pump today. They may be pricey, but your nerve endings and wallet will thank you in the end!