Heat pumps are one of the most common pool heating systems on the market. They are reliable for maintaining stable temperatures for our swimming pool all year round and use less energy than others. Heat pumps’ annual operating costs are significantly cheaper than conventional gas-fired systems.
While a pool heat pump is a solid option for your pool heating solutions, the annual cost depends on the water temperature you want to achieve. Other factors such as efficiency rating and pool location also play a huge role in determining the overall operating value of the system. Aside from that, the size of the pump in relation to the pool size may also affect the associated prices.
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Pool Heat Pump Estimated Operating Costs
It is important to know that there are various factors when calculating any expenses that come with pool pump heaters. Here is how to calculate your expenses correctly.
Annual Cost
Most homeowners steer away from constantly using pool heating systems with the fear of enormous utility bills. However, the reality that most people experience has more to do with their overall control of the frequency and usage of pool heaters. Because of that mindset, homeowners link the use of pool heaters as a luxury cost.
For a pool heat pump, the cost is significantly reduced thanks to the efficiency of the system. Let’s say that similar pools with the same variables are fitted with two kinds of pool heating systems – one with a heat pump and another one with a gas heater.
When it comes to their potential annual bills, the pool with a gas heater would likely cost around $20,000, while the heat pump should be approximately $4,000. That’s a $16,000 difference, and families can allocate that money somewhere else instead of spending them on warming up their backyard pool.
Installation Costs
A pool heat pump installation usually revolves around the electrical components. A heat pump needs a dedicated breaker and a 220 volts electrical service line on an average household.
In most cases, pool designers install systems in preparation for a heating system, and you should only spend somewhere in the vicinity of $300 to $500. However, if there’s none in place, a homeowner should probably prepare a heavy-duty 50 amp breaker and a reliable service line dedicated to the heat pump system. The installation cost will vary depending on how the line design goes and how complex the system is.
Maintenance Cost
A pool heat pump running in optimal condition can last up to 15 years. It needs proper maintenance but is more reliable than your typical pool gas heater, which usually lasts roughly 5 years. The reason for longevity is the heat exchanger.
The heat exchanger is one of the primary components of many pool heaters. In a pool gas heater, the heat exchanger is usually made from copper with a small mixture of nickel. With prolonged exposure to chemicals and other substances in the pool water, the heat exchange has the potential to corrode and eventually fail.
On the other hand, a pool heat pump uses titanium heat exchange. This material is known to be resilient from corrosion even if exposed to chemicals, heavy metals, and potential salt in the water system. Because of this major difference, a pool heat pump systems’ maintenance cost is significantly less than other heating methods.
Energy Cost
Heat pumps are excellent alternatives when it comes to pool heating systems. Aside from the reliability of the heating system, it provides significant savings in terms of energy consumption.
A typical pool heater uses a lot of fossil fuel to operate. Heat pumps can provide the same output while saving up to 80% of the energy cost. It also provides a cleaner option for the environment.
Miscellaneous Costs
A typical pool heat pump utilizes sun-heated air. This unique heat source gives an enormous edge when it comes to the system’s operating cost, unlike conventional pool heaters where homeowners need to keep an eye on their utility bills on top of the installation cost.
A heat pump’s performance and efficiency jump to considerable amounts in places where the temperature is higher throughout the year. This means fewer expenses towards small and minute details.
Overall, the upfront cost for installing a pool heat pump might be higher than other heating systems. However, the return on investment is considerably more significant in the long run.
In Conclusion – So is a Pool Heat Pump Worth the Investment?
In most cases, the answer is yes. A pool heat pump can save you money in the long term, and it’s a great way to extend your swimming season. If you’re considering adding a pool heat pump to your home, be sure to do your research and read reviews to find the best model for your needs.
