What Size Heat Pump Should You Buy For an Inground Pool?

The sizing of pool heat pumps is based on each pump's British thermal units (BTUs). BTU measures the energy capacity of an appliance. Therefore, the higher the BTU of a pool heat pump, the more powerful the pump is. Powerful heat pumps have a higher capacity to heat your pool to the desired temperatures. However, this doesn't mean that you should go for the highest BTU available. Various factors determine the best pump size for heating your inground pool. Keep reading to find out.

Pool volume and capacity

The size of your inground pool is the most important factor when sizing your heat pump. Heat pumps draw heat from the outside air and use it to warm your water. Heating occurs as water passes through the filter and heat pump during the circulation process. Therefore, the more water there is, the longer the pump will take to heat it.

If you have a large pool, you need a more powerful pump to ensure the energy output matches the water to be heated. Conversely, a small pool will require a smaller heat pump. As you go shopping, find out the volume and surface area of your pool. Your dealer will need this information to calculate the right BTU for your heat pump. Alternatively, use an online calculator to estimate the power requirements of your pool.

Usage patterns

Evaluate your swimming patterns when buying a new heat pump. How often do you use your pool? Do you swim every other day or just once or twice a week? If you use your pool regularly, it makes sense to invest in a bigger heat pump. Bigger pumps mean increased heating capacity, which comes in handy for frequent pool users. A small heat pump may overwork to heat your pool, leading to premature wear and tear of its components.

Climate of your area

Warmer climates call for small- to medium-sized pool heat pumps. Since heat pumps draw heat from the air, the warm weather gives them enough heat to work with, which results in faster heating and better efficiency. In colder climates, smaller heat pumps may struggle to draw enough heat to warm the water, which forces them to work harder and possibly break down often.

However, this doesn't mean that medium-sized pumps with an average BTU won't heat water in the colder parts of the country. The pool will just take a while to reach the desired temperatures. However, more powerful heat pumps have a greater capacity to draw heat from the air and warm the water without overworking.

Buying the right pool heat pump allows you to spend time in your pool throughout the year. If you need help sizing your heat pump, talk to a swimming pool heat pump supplier.