Trying to work out what size pool heat pump you need? You're definitely not the only one. Pool volume is a good starting point but choosing the right heating capacity involves a few other factors too.
How Do You Calculate Pool Size?
For a simple rectangular pool, you can estimate the volume by multiplying the length by the width and then by the average depth.
For example, a pool measuring 10 metres by 5 metres with an average depth of 1.5 metres contains roughly 75 cubic metres of water.
If your pool has different depths or an unusual shape, the calculation can be a little more involved. Once you have an estimate, a pool heat pump sizing chart can help you get an idea of the heating capacity you may need.
What Else Affects Heat Pump Size?
Pool volume isn't the whole story.
Your location and local climate can affect how much heat the pool loses. The temperature you want to maintain matters too. Heating a pool to a higher temperature during cooler weather will generally require more heating capacity.
Your swimming season also matters. Someone who only wants to take the chill off the water during spring and autumn may have different requirements from someone wanting to swim throughout cooler periods.
A pool cover can also help reduce heat loss when the pool isn't being used.
For a closer look at these factors, see how to size a pool heat pump.
Can a Pool Heat Pump Calculator Help?
Absolutely. A pool heat pump calculator can make the initial sizing process easier by helping you consider the main details of your pool and heating requirements.
It is still worth treating the result as a starting point because actual conditions can vary from pool to pool.
If you're also comparing different heat pump technologies, you can read about inverter vs non-inverter pool heat pumps.
What About Running Costs?
The size of your pool heat pump can influence how it operates but running costs depend on several things, including electricity rates, operating hours, desired temperature and heat loss.
This guide on how much it costs to run a pool heat pump covers some of the main factors.
Once you've worked out the size, don't forget installation. Things such as airflow, positioning and plumbing need to be considered too. Here's a useful guide to installing a pool heat pump.
The main thing is not to choose a heat pump based on pool volume alone. Look at the full picture and you'll have a much better starting point for choosing the right size.
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