The acquisition of a pool heater can greatly enhance the amount of time your pool is available for you to enjoy. Heaters can extend the number of swimming hours in a day as well as the number of swimming months in the year. The energy options available for heating a pool are gas, oil, electricity or solar.
The size of the heater is an important consideration. Although a smaller heater will cost less to buy, it will have to work longer and harder to heat the pool whereby a larger heater will heat it faster and will not have to be constantly running. At Total Tech, we stock the Pentair Mastertemp and the Jandy Legacy Gas heaters as well as the Pentair UltraTemp and the Jandy EE Series heat pumps.
Some Considerations When Choosing a Heat Pump:
1. Is it a new or replacement heat pump?
New units will require an adequate power source (amperage) and electrical wire to feed the unit. Some units could require up to 60 amps, so prior to purchasing a heat pump, check with a licensed electrician to ensure that your existing electrical panel can handle the additional load. When replacing an existing unit it is important to note the size and make of the old unit in order to choose the best replacement. Also, with the emergence of new technology, we strongly recommend that you only purchase a heat pump that comes with a titanium heat exchanger, especially in the case of a saltwater pool. At Total Tech, we only sell titanium units.
2. What is the proper size (BTU) of heat pump for my pool?
There are a couple of important considerations that will contribute to your decision. Firstly, figure out the water temperature at which you prefer to swim. Secondly, are you buying a heat pump to extend your season or just to enhance the water temperature during the summer months. Thirdly, measure the lenght by width of the surface of your pool. The surface area is the most important consideration of all as 90% of your heat loss is due to evaporation of pool water. With this information, we will be able to help you properly size a heat pump tailored to your pool.
3. Where should the heat pump best be installed?
Heat pumps transfer the heat from outside air to your pool, providing the most energy efficient pool heating available. To help maximize the efficiency of your heat pump, it is preferable that it be installed with as much exposure to the sun as possible. Also, make sure that the air flow into (sides) and out of (top) the heat pump is not obstructed in any way i.e. tree branches, bushes, fence, etc. Most manufacturers require that the heat pump is installed on a level base so as not to prematurely damage the compressor. A badly installed heat pump could void your warranty. Lastly, when it comes to noise, heat pumps have improved dramatically over the past few years. However, we recommend that you do not install the unit close to your patio.
Some Considerations When Choosing a Gas Heater:
1. Is it a new or replacement unit?
New units will require the installation of a gas line which in some cases can be a major undertaking especially if underground lines are needed. You will have more flexibility in sizing your heater as this is determined by the size of the Gas Piping. When replacing an existing unit it is important to note the size and make of the old unit in order to choose the best replacement.
2. Will it conform to Codes?
It is very important to ensure that the installation conforms to code as failure to do so can pose significant Safety Concerns and risk having the unit shut down by the authorities. In Canada gas pool heaters must be at least 10′ from and opening into a home , at least 3′ from a gas meter or air conditioner and when installed in a cabana must be properly vented. There are many other code requirements and a licensed gas fitter should be consulted. Many existing installations do not conform to current codes.
3. Will the heater be indoors (cabana or shed) or outdoors ?
This is an important consideration as it determines if venting is required.
4. How quickly and efficiently do you want the pool to heat up?
When sizing a heater, pool size , location and desired temperature rise are all factors. In some cases you will be restricted by the size of the existing gas pipe and/or venting.
Important Heater Tip: A certified gas technician should service your gas pool heater annually. This ensures that it runs efficiently and safely. Pool technicians are not certified to start, repair, or maintain pool heaters, and can be fined for doing so.