Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best Top Discharge Pool Heat Pump

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One of the best ways to heat your backward pool is with a pool heat pump. It’s durable, energy-efficient and easy to maintain. But with so many pool heat pumps out there, how do you know which one is right for your pool? In this guide, we’ll show you what to look for in a pool heat pump, including size, temperature range and energy rating, and explain how three pool heat pumps compare. We also answer some frequently asked questions, such as how long they take to heat your pool and whether you should run them all day. 

How to choose a pool heat pump

Like other pool equipment, it’s important to choose the right pool heat pump for your pool, climate, lifestyle and needs. Here are 9 factors you need to consider:

1. Fixed output or inverter technology

When buying a pool heat pump, there are two types to choose from: fixed output (also known as on/off) and inverter. While they work along the same lines – both draw warm air from the atmosphere to heat your pool – the biggest difference is how they transfer heat. For example, while a fixed output heat pump operates at 100 per cent capacity all the time,  an inverter heat pump adjusts its speed to match the heat demand of the pool. 

The result? An inverter pool heat pump is quieter and more energy-efficient than a fixed-output pool heat pump. So if you want to minimise noise and running costs, opt for an inverter heat pump. While they’re more expensive to buy, ongoing savings will offset purchase and installation costs.

2. Coefficient of performance (COP)

A heat pump’s efficiency is measured by its coefficient of performance (COP). This is a ratio of the amount of energy produced against the amount of energy consumed. In general, the higher the COP rating, the lower the running costs. So when you’re choosing a heat pump, go for one with a high COP rating, like the Viron Inverter. With a COP of  upto 13.57 (varies by model), it can reduce your energy consumption by 15–30 per cent, keeping operating costs low. 

Top tip: The heat pump’s refrigerant (a fluid used for heat transfer) can also affect the COP rating. If available, choose a pool heat pump with R32 refrigerant. Not only does it speed up heating times compared to standard R410A refrigerant, but it can also lower carbon emissions and reduce your energy bills by an extra 10 per cent.

3. Size

Size matters when it comes to pool heat pumps. If your pool is large or you live in a cold climate, bigger is usually better. However, if you have a small pool or garden space is limited, or you use a pool cover, a slim-line model like the Top Discharger Inverter may suit your needs. While it’s not as powerful as other AstralPool models, it provides quiet and efficient heating, and the vertical exhaust makes it perfect for tight spaces. However, to accurately size your pool heat pump, it’s best to use our online heat pump calculator or chat with your local pool shop.

4. Durability

Pool heat pumps are often exposed to extreme weather conditions, not to mention chlorine and other pool chemicals. That’s why it’s important to find a unit that can withstand these conditions. First, look for a pool heat pump with a reinforced plastic or aluminium alloy casing. This will ensure your heater lasts longer and continues to look good over the years. 

Second, make sure it’s got a titanium heat exchanger. In addition to preventing corrosion from chlorine and other pool chemicals, titanium heat exchangers are almost indestructible. It’s why they have a long warranty that often outlasts the heat pump itself!

5. Noise

Pool heat pumps have a reputation for being noisy, which can be disruptive for young families or neighbours. Some can be as loud as 60 decibels (i.e. the sound of an air conditioner) or as quiet as 39 decibels (i.e. the hum of a refrigerator). Ultimately, the volume of your unit will depend on your brand, size, fan blades, motor and compressor. To keep noise to a minimum, choose a heat pump with levels between 40 and 50, such as the Eco Inverter Heat Pump. 

Top tip: If your heater is louder than expected or near a bedroom window, reduce noise levels by using a sound-absorbing pad or planting a hedge to dampen the noise (with proper clearance, of course).

6. Temperature range

Check the temperature range of your unit to make sure it can handle cold temperatures in winter. If you live in a cold climate (hello, Tasmania!) and your pool heat pump isn’t designed to operate in freezing temperatures (e.g. minus 10°C), it might not activate, or worse, ice and frost may damage the unit. 

Conversely, if you live in a hot climate, you may find that your water temperature is too warm for comfortable swimming. If that’s the case, choose a heat pump with both heating and cooling (much like a reverse-cycle air conditioner). This will help you turn your pool into a cool oasis in summer and a steamy sauna in winter.

7. Price

Before splashing out on a pool heat pump, make sure it’s within your budget. Pool heat pumps can costs can vary depending on the brand, size and features.  Comparatively, running costs are low compared to gas pool heaters. For example, a heat pump can cost $250–$750 to run per year, while gas heating can cost $500–$1,500 per year – that’s a saving of roughly 50 per cent! 

Plus, pool heat pumps have a lifespan of about 15–20 years (with proper use and maintenance), compared to 5–10 years for gas heaters. So while you pay more upfront, you could save thousands in replacement costs over the life of your pool. 

8. Warranty and service

When buying a pool heat pump, look for a recognised brand with a long warranty period – and don’t forget to read the fine print. Some brands may have a 25-year warranty on the heat exchanger and a 3-year warranty on the compressor. Others may have 5 years on both. Make sure the warranty period is long so you’re not out of pocket if something goes wrong. And don’t forget to check out online reviews to see how products and customer service compare across brands.

9. Extra features

Some pool heat pumps come with additional features, like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. This means you can monitor water temperature or turn the heat pump off with your – even when you’re not at home. Another feature to look out for is automation capability. This allows you to sync your unit to an automation system like Viron Connect – so you never come home to a cold pool!

AstralPool heat pump comparison guide

Now that you know what to look for, let’s compare three AstralPool pool heat pumps: the Eco Inverter, Viron Inverter and Top Discharger Inverter. While these heat pumps are all environmentally friendly, built for the Australian environment, whisper-quiet and Wi-Fi compatible, some differences set them apart. Here’s a quick comparison guide:

Eco Inverter

Viron Inverter

Top Discharge Inverter

COP

10

12.43–13.57

4.55–5.66

Refrigerant

R32

R32

R410A

Heat exchanger

Titanium

Titanium

Titanium

Noise

39–53 dB

40–58 dB

44–60 dB

Temperature Range (ambient)

-5–43°C

-15–43°C

-15–43°C

Wi-Fi

Additional reading:
Choosing the Perfect Pool Heat Pump for Your Climate and Pool ...

LAILEY & COATES contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.

Optional

Included 

Included

Exhaust

Horizontal

Horizontal

Vertical

Size (min.)

x 403 x 603 mm

950 x 400 x 620 mm

723 x 835 x 865 mm

Viron Connect Compatible

No

No – iHP90, iHP120, iHP170

Yes – iHP195, iHP242, iHP283

Yes

Warranty

5 yrs – compressor

5 yrs – heat exchanger

5 yrs – compressor

5 yrs – heat exchanger

5 yrs – compressor

5 yrs – heat exchanger

FAQs

How does a pool heat pump work?

Unlike a gas or electric pool heater, a pool heat pump doesn’t actually generate heat. Instead, a fan draws warm air into the unit’s evaporator coils, heating up the liquid refrigerant and turning it into a gas. The gas then passes through a compressor, where it gets heated up further before moving to the heat exchanger and heating up your pool water. As the water returns to your pool, the gas inside the compressor reverts to a liquid and starts the process all over again. For more, see our Ultimate Guide to Pool Heat Pumps.

How long does it take for a heat pump to heat your pool? 

When you first install a pool heat pump, it can take 24–72 hours to heat your pool water, depending on the dimensions of your pool, heat pump size, climate, water temperature (both starting and final) and whether you use a pool cover. Make sure you allow plenty of heating time if you’re entertaining friends or the kids are going to be on school holidays.

Can you leave a pool heat pump running all the time?

In general, pool heat pumps have a thermostat that shuts off when the target temperature is reached, then turns on again when the temperature drops. This helps the heat pump conserve energy without allowing the temperature to drop too dramatically. If you’re not planning to swim for a few weeks, you can turn off the heat pump and continue running your pump as normal.

However, if you swim often, it’s better to run the heat pump at a lower temperature even when you’re not in the pool. If you normally heat your pool to 28°C, bring it down to 23–25°C. This means you’ll be able to raise the temperature quickly if you want to take a dip. 

Top tip: It’s faster and more energy-efficient to increase the water temperature than to heat up a cold pool.

Takeaways

A pool heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat your pool. But before you splash, consider factors like COP rating, size, durability, noise levels, operating temperatures, price, warranty and additional features. This will ensure your pool heat pump works optimally and matches your lifestyle and needs. If you’re still not sure which AstralPool heat pump is right for you, here’s a quick guide:

Choose an Eco Inverter Heat Pump if:

• you want a high COP rating 
• you want a faster heating time
• your ambient temperatures stay above -5°C 
• you don’t require automation.

Choose a Viron Inverter Heat Pump if:

• you want a very high COP rating
• you want faster heating times
• your ambient temperatures can drop to -15°C
• you need automation compatibility.

Choose a Top Discharge Inverter Heat Pump if:

• you’ve got a small pool or don’t use your heat pump often
• your ambient temperatures can drop to -15°C
• you have limited space
• you need automation compatibility.

Introduction

Swimming pool heat pumps provide an energy-efficient way for pool users to maintain consistently warm water in their pools and spas all year round. Rather than generating heat like gas or electric heaters, pool heat pumps capture energy from the outside air which it then transfers into the pool water in order to heat it. Once activated, the heat pump’s fan pulls warm air into its evaporator coil, where it warms the liquid refrigerant, converting it into a gas. This gas is then compressed, increasing its temperature further. After reaching the desired temperature, it flows into the heat exchanger, where it heats the pool water. Afterward, the heated water circulates back into the pool while the gas reverts to a liquid state, ready to begin the cycle anew. When you choose Aqauaheat pool heating, you also get the added benefit of InverPad Technology, which is not only one of the quietest heating systems available, but is also one of the most energy-efficient. In fact, it can cut down your energy usage by an average of 90%.

Swimming pool heat pumps provide an efficient and cost-effective solution for heating your pool. They serve as an excellent alternative to gas heaters and are ideal for maintaining warm pool temperatures throughout the year. If you’re looking for a pool heat pump in Melbourne, you can browse Aquaheat options here, or scroll down to learn more about this innovative technology.

What’s the Difference Between a Gas Pool Heating and an Air Source Heat Pump?

In short, gas pool heaters burn fuel to directly create heat, whereas air source heat pumps extract heat from the surrounding air to warm the pool, making them generally more energy-efficient. Gas pool heaters can use natural gas or LPG as their fuel; the gas combusts in the heater’s combustion chamber, producing heat that is transferred to the water before it cycles back into the pool. Conversely, an electric heat pump does not use a heating element but instead harnesses heat from the external air. Approximately 70-90% of the energy required to operate the heat pump is derived from the air, with the remainder provided by electricity. Using air as its primary energy source lowers your heating costs considerably, making an air source heat pump a cheaper more environmentally friendly alternative to pool heating.

Why Use a Heat Pump for a Pool Water Heating?

Heat pumps allow you to set your pool at your ideal temperature, and then keep it that way, as they are excellent at keeping a consistent temperature. Heat pumpsrequire very little effort to operate. They are designed to be user-friendly, offering simple controls and automated features that make managing your pool’s temperature effortless. Their straightforward installation and operation allow for easy integration into existing pool systems. In addition to this, heat pumps provide:

• Energy Efficiency: If you’re hoping to keep your energy costs as low, you will find that heat pumps offer excellent value. Heat pumps are more energy efficient than gas heaters because they transfer existing heat from the air rather than burning fuel to generate new heat. While a gas heater can heat your pool more quickly, that speed comes at a higher energy cost. In contrast, a heat pump can provide you with steady and consistent heating after it reaches your desired temperature, and can do so far more efficiently than a gas heater.
  
• Durability: Heat pumps are designed to last. They’re built with sturdy components that have been engineered to operate in varying weather conditions, and they typically require very little maintenance. Their long operational life spans ensure reliable performance year after year.
  
• Easy Maintenance: Heat pumps require less maintenance than other heating systems due to their fewer moving parts and the absence of combustion-related components. Regular checks and basic cleaning are typically all that’s needed to keep them running efficiently.

The Right Heat Pump for Your Pool

When selecting a heat pump for your swimming pool, it’s advised that you consider the following factors before you buy:

• The Volume of the Water: The size of your pool significantly impacts a heat pump’s heating capacity requirements, so it’s critical that you consider this before you buy, as the heat pump’s capacity will need to correspond to the pool’s volume. To determine this, you first need to calculate the volume of your pool in cubic metres (m³) using the following formula: length x width x depth (water level). As it takes 1kW of heat to warm 4m³ of water, the minimum heating capacity required for your heat pump can be calculated by dividing your pool’s volume in m³ by 4. But if you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Total Solar for a free quote by calling us on (03) .
  
  
• Climate & Environmental Factors: Factors such as humidity, wind chill, and temperature fluctuations will also play a role. For instance, opting for a larger pool heat pump is advisable if you live in an area that’s got a drier climate, higher wind speeds, or low nighttime temperatures.
  
  
• Heat Pump Size & Capacity: Make sure the heating capacity of the heat pump is appropriate for your pool’s size. A heat pump that is too small will not heat the water effectively, whereas one that is too large can consume unnecessary energy.
  
  
• Noise Levels: For the sake of your neighbours as well as your own serenity, it’s highly recommended that you don’t get a heat pump that’s too noisy. As with certain other machines, heat pump noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). The sound of leaves rustling is around 20dB, whereas a lawnmower sits around 90dB. A good, quiet heat pump should sit somewhere between 30dB to 40dB, which is somewhere between a gentle whisper to the sound of a quiet library (an Aqauaheat pump clocks in at 36.8dB).
  
  
• Degree of Use: The frequency and intensity of pool use significantly influence the type of heat pump you should consider. If you fancy a regular dip in the pool, especially in the colder months, then it’s recommended that you invest in a heat pump with a higher capacity and more robust features to maintain a consistent water temperature efficiently. On the other hand, for pools that are used less frequently or chiefly in the warmer seasons, then a smaller, less powerful heat pump might suffice, as the demand for heating is lower and less constant. Assessing how often and in what conditions your pool will be used can help you choose a heat pump that balances performance with energy efficiency, ensuring optimal functionality without excessive power consumption.

Benefits of Using the Aquaheat Pool Pump

An Aquaheat pool pump comes with a range of features, including:

• InverPad Technology: Aquaheat pumps are equipped with InverPad tech, which uses groundbreaking noise-cancelling technologies to achieve unprecedented low noise levels. This marks a significant milestone in the development of quieter pool systems.
  
  
• Coefficient of Performance (COP): The Coefficient of Performance (COP) measures the efficiency of heating and cooling systems. Heat pumps have the added advantage of cooling water, which can be particularly beneficial in hot climates. The average COP for these systems is 10.7.
  
  
• Simple Touch Controllers – The Aquaheat Intelligent Pool Heat Pump features a straightforward touch controller, offering a user-friendly experience. Its simplicity ensures that the system is extremely easy to operate.
  
  
• High Efficiency: Heat pumps chiefly pull their heat out of the very air, making them highly efficient while also significantly reducing power bill costs.
  
  
• Longevity: Heat pumps tend to have a longer lifespan than gas heaters and provide consistent heating since air, their primary heat source, is readily available.
  
• Back Discharge Design: The heat pump’s back discharge design expels air from the back rather than the sides or top. This design allows for more flexible installation options, particularly in tight spaces or against walls, and helps to minimise noise and disruption by directing sound and airflow away from nearby areas, making it ideal for residential settings.
  
• Intelligent System: This smart system initiates at 0 amps and incrementally increases power, maintaining a consistent electrical load to prevent any surges or drops in your home’s power.
  
  
• Stepless DC Inverter: The Aquaheat pump features a top-of-the-line Stepless DC inverter control system, designed to lower your electricity usage and reduce your bills. Stepless DC inverter control systems are designed to give the user continuous and variable control of a device’s motor speed, enabling optimal efficiency and energy savings by adjusting power output to the exact needs of the operation. This system quickly heats the pool water and then operates at a low speed to efficiently maintain the temperature once the pool is warm, which ultimately lowers both your energy consumption and your power bills.

Installation & Maintenance

If you wish to ensure optimal efficiency and longevity, it’s always advised that heat pump pool heaters are always installed (and if need be, repaired) by professionals. This is also the safest route, given that heat pumps require electrical connections around water.

The cost of installation can differ depending on site conditions, availability of electrical power, and the size of the unit. For a free quote, reach out to Total Solar Solutions.

Where Can I Get the Aquaheat Pool Pump?

Total Solar Solutions has been offering high range solar and heat pump products to Australia since . Offering excellent workmanship and quality customer service, Total Solar Solutions can provide you with thorough quotes, honest opinions, and punctual tradies.

You can get your Aquaheat intelligent pool heat pump from Total Solar today. The Aquaheat comes in five different sizes to accommodate a range of pool size specifications, and you can hit us up for a free quote to find out what’s best for you. You can also browse our other energy-effective products and services over at the Total Solar website.

Are you interested in learning more about Top Discharge Pool Heat Pump? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!