An electric pool heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient and environmentally friendly ways to heat your swimming pool. Instead of generating heat directly like gas or electric resistance heaters, heat pumps transfer heat from the ambient air into your pool water, using a small amount of electricity and producing no direct emissions.
Why Use a Pool Heat Pump in Australia?
1. Extend Your Swimming Season or Swim All Year
Australia’s generally mild climate, especially in coastal regions like Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth, is ideal for pool heat pumps. These systems work best when the ambient temperature is above 10°C, which covers most of the year in these areas. If you want to use your pool in autumn, winter, or even all year, a heat pump is a smart, cost-effective choice.
2. Energy-Efficient Heating = Lower Costs
Think of a gas heater as a V8 engine and a heat pump as a hybrid car. Gas will heat your pool quickly but chew through energy—and money. A heat pump may take longer to warm up your pool but once it’s there, it maintains temperature efficiently and saves significantly on running costs.
In fact, heat pumps can achieve energy efficiencies of 300–700% (3 to 7 units of heat for every unit of electricity), making them cheaper to run long-term than gas or electric resistance heaters.
3. Some Heat Pumps Can Cool Your Pool Too
In hot Australian summers, pool water can get uncomfortably warm. Dual-function models can cool your water too—perfect for year-round comfort.
How Does a Pool Heat Pump Work?
- Pool water is circulated through your pump and filter system.
- The heat pump draws in warm ambient air using a fan.
- This air passes over an evaporator coil containing refrigerant.
- The refrigerant absorbs the heat and becomes a warm gas.
- This gas is compressed, raising its temperature even further.
- The hot gas then transfers its heat to the pool water via a condenser.
- Heated water flows back into your pool, and the refrigerant recycles to repeat the cycle.
Heat pumps work efficiently as long as outside air temperature is above 10°C–15°C. This is ideal for most Australian conditions.
Selecting a Heat Pump Pool Heater
When choosing a heat pump, consider:
- Size – based on your pool’s surface area and local climate.
- Efficiency – look for a high COP (Coefficient of Performance) rating.
- Price vs. Running Costs – heat pumps cost more upfront but are cheaper to run.
Heat Pump Sizing for Australian Pools
To estimate the size of heat pump you’ll need:
- Determine your desired pool temperature (e.g. 28°C).
- Determine the average coldest-month air temperature for your area.
- Subtract the air temperature from your desired water temperature = temperature rise.
- Measure your pool’s surface area (m²).
- Use this formula for approximate output in kilowatts (kW):
Pool Area × Temperature Rise × 0.061
This gives a rough idea of the required heat output per hour for a 1°C rise in water temperature.
Example Cost Estimates for Australia
Below are estimated seasonal heating costs using a pool heat pump (COP of 5.0), based on heating a 93m² (1,000 sq ft) pool to 26°C, 28°C and 30°C, with and without a pool cover.
| City | Season | 26°C | 28°C | 30°C | w/ Cover (avg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | Sep–May | $1,200 | $1,500 | $1,800 | $250–$450 |
| Brisbane | Aug–Jun | $1,000 | $1,300 | $1,600 | $200–$400 |
| Melbourne | Oct–Apr | $1,400 | $1,750 | $2,100 | $300–$500 |
| Perth | Sep–May | $1,100 | $1,400 | $1,700 | $200–$400 |
| Adelaide | Oct–Apr | $1,300 | $1,600 | $1,900 | $250–$450 |
| Canberra | Nov–Mar | $1,600 | $1,950 | $2,300 | $350–$550 |
Based on electricity cost of $0.30/kWh. Your actual costs may vary depending on your pool size, location, insulation, and pool cover use.
Cost Comparison: Heat Pump vs. Other Heating Types
| Heater Type | Efficiency | Annual Cost | Heat Pump Cost (COP 5.0) | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas (55% efficient) | 55% | $1,000 | $700 | $300 |
| Gas (70% efficient) | 70% | $785 | $700 | $85 |
| Electric Resistance | 100% | $1,000 | $200 | $800 |
Installation & Maintenance
- Installation should be handled by a qualified pool technician, especially the electrical connection.
- Regular servicing improves lifespan and performance.
- A well-maintained heat pump can last 10–15 years.
- Annual tune-ups are recommended—many components are similar to an air conditioning system.
Final Thoughts
Electric heat pumps are a smart, efficient, and eco-friendly solution for pool heating in Australia. They offer lower ongoing costs, longer equipment life, and the flexibility to keep your pool swimmable well beyond the summer months.
Want to learn more or get a tailored quote for your pool? Contact Sydney Pool Servicing and we’ll help you choose the best heat pump for your home.