Pool heating: How to calculate the size of pool heat pumps

Mark Toth

Keeping your pool heated extends the swimming season and enhances the experience of having a pool .

A pool heat pump is necessary to achieve this, but it is important to choose the right pump size to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency.

Here is a guide on how to calculate the size of a pool heat pump.

Measure the pool's volume

The first step is to measure the pool's volume in cubic meters (m³). This is done by measuring the length, width, and depth and then using the following formula:

For rectangular pools:
Volume = Length × Width × Average depth

For circular pools:
Volume = π × (Radius) 2 × Average depth

Where π (pi) is approximately 3.14.

Determine the desired temperature increase

The next step is to decide how many degrees you want to raise the pool temperature by. Typically, you aim for a temperature between 25 and 28 degrees. If the pool water temperature is usually 20 degrees and you want to raise it to 28 degrees, that means a temperature increase of 8 degrees.

To calculate the amount of heat required to raise the pool temperature, use the formula:

Heat requirement (kWh) = Volume (m³) × Temperature increase (°C) × Factor

The factor is 1.16 to convert from cubic meters and degrees to kilowatt-hours.

Example: If the pool volume is 50 m³ and you want to increase the temperature by 8 °C:

Heat requirement=50×8×1.16=464 kWh

Choose a heat pump with the right capacity

Now that you know how much energy is needed to heat your pool, it's time to choose a heat pump. Pool heat pumps are usually rated in kilowatts (kW), which is the amount of energy they can deliver.

A rule of thumb is that a pool heat pump should have a capacity of about 0.2-0.3 kW per cubic meter of water to effectively heat the pool.

 

Example: For a pool with a volume of 50 m³, a heat pump with a capacity of: 50×0.25=12.5 kW is recommended.

Consider other factors

Several other factors can affect what size pool heat pump you need, including:

  • Climate: Colder climates require more powerful heat pumps.

  • Pool insulation : A well-insulated pool loses less heat.

  • Pool cover: A pool cover can significantly reduce heat loss and energy needs.

  • Usage frequency: If the pool is used often or year-round, a larger heat pump may be necessary.

It is crucial to choose the right size pool heat pump to ensure your pool stays warm and comfortable without wasting energy. By carefully measuring the pool's volume, determining the desired temperature increase, calculating the heat requirement, and selecting a heat pump with the right capacity, you can enjoy an extended swimming season under optimal conditions. Don't forget to consider climate and insulation to make the most energy-efficient investment.

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