Air source heat pump for swimming pool. Eco-friendly pool heat pump

04.02.2024

If you want to make a heat pump with your own hands to heat a pool or home, an air-to-water pump is suitable for you.The use of heat pumps is widespread abroad. In Russia, this is a new type of heating technology, but it is beginning to gain its customers due to the fact that the conversion of air, earth or water energy into thermal energy is free. True, the price of such an installation is not cheap yet.

You can buy a heat pump in the range from 49,652 rubles. up to RUB 2,822,204

You can go the other way and do DIY pool heat pump. For this you will need:

Copper hollow tube.
Polypropylene container.
Metal barrel or tank.
Split system compressor.
Drain and bleed valve, safety valve, clamps.

Heat pump as refrigeration equipment. Only the refrigerator takes energy from outside and cools it. And this unit takes heat from nature, transforms it and gives it directly to the heated house or water from the pool, heating it. Sources include:

Ambient air, and in summer this is especially important and such a pump will work more efficiently.
Water.
The soil.

Pool heat pump looks like an air conditioner. It just works in the opposite way. It does not cool the air, but heats it. Very convenient for people who do not have the opportunity to install gas equipment. And it consumes little electricity. Some models look very aesthetically pleasing, do not take up much space and are equipped with a digital screen and remote control. On such a device, you just need to set the parameters once, and it will control itself. heating pool water with a heat pump . And it works at low degrees, which is very important when heating a reservoir in winter.

Homemade heat pump

Holders for it are attached to the place where the compressor will be installed.
Metal hollow tubes are wrapped around the cylinder. A coil is created, the turns must be the same.
You will need a metal container made of two identical halves. The coil is placed in one part. The parts are soldered. Threaded holes are made in the container for the outlet pipes of the coil.
Install a plastic barrel that will serve as an evaporator. The internal circuit pipes are inserted into the barrel.
Plastic pipes are used to drain water into the pool.
All elements are combined into one system.
The specialist fills the structure with freon.

Operation of an air-to-water heat pump for a swimming pool

The air-to-water heat pump for a swimming pool consists of:

A coil that is filled with cooling gas.
Plastic container for evaporating moisture.
Capacitor.
Compressor from a new or old split.

In a plastic evaporator, freon becomes gaseous, taking heat from the environment. The gas enters the compressor, where, due to pressure, the freon is heated and enters the condenser. Here the gas takes on a liquid state, which is used for heat. Favorable temperature in winter, heating pool heat pump in winter from -10 to -20 degrees. At lower temperatures the pump stops working. To do this, we developed a joint work with electrical equipment that turns on back up when the temperature drops. But as a rule.

Pros of a heat pump

It is environmentally friendly, as it does not release harmful substances into the environment.
Not explosive.
Does not require additional communications. Powered by mains power.
Replaces heating units in winter, cooling units in summer and occurs heating the pool with a heat pump.
Despite the increased performance, the noise level is quite low.

Disadvantage of a heat pump

High price. It depends on the volume of the pool and on the power output and “open”.

Conclusion

Heat pump very convenient way. The desired temperature is set on it, as well as the turn-on time and heating time. You will know for sure that the water does not overheat or cool down. This is a fully automated system that can not only heat the water in the pool, but also heat the house in winter (to heat a large house, it is better to assemble a geothermal pump yourself). It is better to purchase this heating system from an authorized dealer, where you can always seek advice and receive warranty service. But in order to avoid problems with the heating device during the period between maintenance, it is necessary to monitor the operation of the system:

Remove accumulated debris from the grill and wipe it clean from dust.
Lubricate parts.
Change used oil.
Check the tubes for leaks.
Monitor the heat sensor.

IMPORTANT!Air-to-water heat pumps have a peculiarity - the nearest body of water should not be more than 100 m away. To ensure the required thermal efficiency, the circuit is located deeper than 3 meters from the surface.

Swimming pools, regardless of size, require heating at any time of the year. For this, various devices are used to maintain the temperature.

Thermal is excellent for solving this problem correctly. This is a special converter that allows you to create thermal energy for heating water as efficiently as possible, without disturbing the surrounding ecology.

Design and operating principle

The main advantage of heat pumps is that they allow you not only to fully automatically heat the water in the pool, but also to control its temperature level within the required range.

According to reviews from owners, this greatly simplifies the maintenance of such an object. It uses classic heat to heat the water in the pool.

The principle of operation is similar and works exactly like similar devices in heating systems, when the consumer receives heat directly from the primary source: groundwater, soil, or air.

It is important to know: The water-to-water pipeline must be buried in the ground.

Due to the constant heat of groundwater, regardless of the season, heating with such a pump can be carried out all year round. The main element, due to which this type takes heat directly from the original source, is the collector.

The better its heat transfer performance, the more efficient the operation of such a pump. It is equipped with a special substance, like antifreeze, which allows it to absorb heat with very little temperature difference.

The main component inside such devices is the refrigerant. It is he, circulating in the system, that changes its state from liquid to gaseous, due to changes in two factors: temperature and pressure.

After this, the heat pump compresses the gaseous substance entering it in the compressor, resulting in a sharp increase in temperature, and the resulting heat is transferred further along the circuit. And then it is transferred to the final heat exchanger, which is the last link in the chain.

Main advantages

The main advantages of such pumps can be considered:

the ability to maintain a constant water temperature level specified by the owner throughout the pool;
saving energy during its conversion into heat. Thus, such devices can convert ordinary electricity into heat in a ratio of 1:5. Due to this, from 1 kW of consumed electricity, approximately 4 kW of thermal energy is obtained;
maximum environmental friendliness, due to the absence of the need to burn fuel and release pollutants onto the site;
reliability and long service life. And if any problems arise in its operation, it automatically turns off and it signals a breakdown;
ease of use, due to automation of the entire process, makes it possible to simply select the desired temperature without additional manipulations;
maximum efficiency among all other types of heating, not only in terms of electricity consumption, but also in terms of heating speed.

Criterias of choice

When choosing such units, it is necessary to take into account factors such as:

Conditions in which it will be used: either it is an outdoor pool, or it is supposed to be located indoors.
Where the device itself will be located, the level of availability of sources from which potential energy can be extracted.
If it is in a building, what type of roof will it be?
Initial indicators of water temperature, as well as its maximum required values.
Pool volume. The more water it contains, the correspondingly greater the power of the unit should be..
Availability of additional sources of heat and ventilation, be it heating or air conditioning (for premises).
The ability to easily connect not only to the electrical network, but also to the water circuit, which will make installation and maintenance much easier.

For the installation of indoor swimming pools, comfortable air parameters will be from 22°C to 24°C degrees, and for water in the pool from 26°C to 27°C. Given these final values, if there are no special wishes that need to be achieved, it is worth opting for heat pumps.

Uninterruptible power supply for heating pump:

terms of Use

So, in most cases, the pump must be placed above the water level to increase its efficiency. The launch must be carried out at an acceptable temperature level of both the water in the pool and the air around it.

It is also necessary to comply with the operating conditions of the equipment. It is necessary that the humidity level at the installation site of the unit does not exceed the permissible values for it, and that there are no prolonged overloads and no overheating.

Good to know: To ensure that the pump does not quickly fail, care must be taken to properly filter the water supplied to it.

This will not only allow the pump to last a long time, but will also save energy consumption, which may increase due to its improper use and failure to comply with proper operating conditions.

Watch the following video for a review of one of the manufacturers of pool heat pumps:

Swimming pool owners are well aware of the almost astronomical sums it costs to heat large quantities of water to an acceptable temperature. The cost of energy resources is steadily increasing, which forces us to look for suitable alternatives to conventional heating devices. Fortunately, they are available - instead of a gas boiler or electric heater, a special pool pump is used - a heat pump. Today we will talk about how this pump works and what criteria exist for its selection.

The operating principle of this unit

Unlike a conventional pool circulation pump, so-called heat pumps for indoor or outdoor pools pump not water, but low-grade energy from the environment. Soil, water and air contain some amount of heat. With the help of a special structure, this energy can be accumulated and used for domestic needs.

The operating principle of the heat pump is described in more detail in the following video:

Various types of pool heat pumps work on much the same principle as a regular refrigerator, removing heat from a source and transferring it for heating. Energy can be used as a heat source:

land;
groundwater;
natural or artificial reservoirs;
air, etc.

Air-to-water installations, which receive heat from the surrounding air, are successfully used to heat swimming pools. Entering the system, low-potential energy passes through the condenser, evaporator and compressor, after which it is converted into high-potential thermal energy, which is quite suitable for heating large quantities of water.

Note! The compressor will need power, but this electricity is not used to heat the water, but only to operate the equipment. Spending only 1.-2.5 kW of electricity per hour, geothermal pumps for swimming pools can produce about 10 kW of heat.

The first and most obvious advantage of a heat pump is quite obvious - it is a significant savings in water heating costs. In addition, structures of this type are successfully used for other needs, for example, for heating an indoor swimming pool, and in the summer for air conditioning. Heat pumps are considered safer when used in humid conditions than other equipment.

How to choose the right model?

The main disadvantage of heat pumps is that the price of such equipment remains quite high. However, the costs pay off very quickly, especially if the model for a particular pool is selected correctly.

When choosing a heat pump, you need to consider a number of factors such as:

location of the pool: indoors or outdoors;
type of pool cover;
location and type of heat pump;
the volume of water that needs to be heated;
initial water temperature;
the temperature to which the water should be heated;

additional functions: room heating, air conditioning, etc.

Note! Modern heat pumps are fully automated systems, the maintenance of which requires minimal effort. Such equipment is installed after the filtration system, but before the disinfection systems. The most practical choice can be considered devices equipped with special connectors for connecting to the system and for connecting the power supply, since this greatly simplifies the installation of the pump.

A few words about calculations

One of the basic indicators that you need to be guided by when choosing a heat pump for your pool is the power of the heat exchanger, which is responsible for the process of heating the water to the optimal temperature. To calculate this indicator, it is necessary to determine the level of energy that will be spent on increasing the water temperature to a given level per unit of time:

P = 1.16 X ΔT/t X V (kW), where

1.16 – coefficient that corrects for heat loss upon contact with the pool structures;
ΔT – the difference between the initial water temperature and the temperature to which the water in the pool needs to be heated, ºС;
t – time during which the heat pump allows water to be heated to a given temperature, hour;
V – volume of the pool, cubic meters. m.

This calculation allows you to determine the type of equipment at the initial stage, but it should be noted that factors such as ventilation of the pool room, air conditioning, regulation of air humidity, etc. are not taken into account. To carry out such detailed calculations, more complex techniques should be used, about which it is better to consult with specialists.

Note! For indoor pools, the optimal water temperature is considered to be within 22-24 ºС, and the air is usually heated to 26-28 ºС. These parameters are usually used when choosing a suitable heat pump.

The maximum effect from the operation of a heat pump depends not only on the correct choice of equipment, but also on other factors. For example, experts recommend using vibration-resistant pipelines that are covered with a protective sheath when installing internal heat exchangers. An important point is diagnosing the condition of the equipment at each stage of installation. Particular attention should be paid to additional protection of all electrical connections, as well as the use of auxiliary materials, components and installation equipment recommended by the manufacturer of the selected heat pump.

Thermal circulation pump for a swimming pool: how to choose the best option

Basic principles for choosing a heat pump for a swimming pool. Advice from professionals and detailed video material with the features of the operating principle of such a pump. How to choose the best model.

Choosing heat pumps for heating a pool

The most appropriate option for heating large quantities of water is pool heat pumps.

This is explained by the fact that such equipment is characterized by a high degree of efficiency along with the possibility of saving energy resources, and, accordingly, funds for their purchase.

More details about the appointment

Heat pumps for pool heating are an energy-efficient option. When using electric heaters and water-based heat exchangers, significant energy consumption is observed, which is often a problem, since it is not possible to provide a sufficient level of power. In addition to this, another difficulty arises - high energy tariffs, which can become a significant obstacle.

A completely different matter is heat pumps for heating a pool, which freely transfer heat from a natural source, be it water, soil or air, to the final goal - water in a pool of any type (open or closed).

The possibility of saving money on maintaining the facility in this case is due to the ability of such devices to generate a fairly large amount of thermal energy in comparison with the value of power consumption.

In fact, this type of equipment is widely used by consumers today to solve various problems: organizing air conditioning, heating and hot water supply systems. Heat pumps for heating a swimming pool can successfully serve both in domestic conditions (in private homes) and for servicing civil facilities (sports complexes with a swimming pool, etc.).

Design and basis of operation

Heat pumps can not only heat water automatically, but also maintain a certain temperature level, which greatly simplifies maintenance of the facility.

Heating a pool with a classic heat pump is carried out exactly according to the same principle on which the operation of a similar device is based, but intended for the operation of a heating system.

Heat is transferred to the consumer from the primary source: water, soil, air. The advantage of this device is the ability to heat the pool throughout the year, since groundwater and deep layers of soil have the appropriate temperature constantly, regardless of the time of year. A pool heat pump takes heat from the primary source through a special element - a collector, which must have excellent heat transfer properties.

This unit is equipped with a special kind of substance, ethylene glycol or antifreeze, the main quality of which is the ability to absorb heat even with minimal temperature differences. A mandatory component of such devices is a refrigerant that circulates in the system, transforming alternately into a gaseous or liquid state under the influence of changes in pressure and temperature.

The heat pump for the pool transfers the collected heat further along the circuit through the compressor, where the gaseous substance is compressed, accompanied by a sharp increase in temperature. This heat is transferred to a secondary heat exchanger, which represents the last link in the chain of transferring the received energy to the pool.

How to choose a heat pump

Any equipment requires care when choosing, since only correctly selected parameters of the device that correspond to the conditions of its operation will allow you to obtain equipment for a long period of operation without the need for repairs. A heat pump for heating a pool is no exception and should be selected based on the following characteristics:

execution of the unit, taking into account the tasks that are planned to be solved with its help;
performance level, based on this, the main material from which the heat pump should be made to heat the pool is determined, for example, with an operating efficiency corresponding to the value of 30 cubic meters. m/h, a plastic version is sufficient, in other cases metal analogues are used;
the ability to replace basic elements if necessary, it is advisable to take into account the risk of breakdowns, as well as ways to eliminate them;
presence and type of filter system;
A heat pump for heating a pool can also have additional functions (disinfestation, cooling, heating of outlet water).

The effectiveness of such equipment is obvious if the device model has been correctly selected and is able to withstand the loads placed on it.

Popular performances

When the volume of the pool does not exceed 15 cubic meters. m, then a compact version of medium productivity - Azuro BP 30WS - is quite sufficient. If you choose such a heat pump for a swimming pool, its price will be more than affordable (RUB 56,000).

Here, as in the case of equipment for other intended uses, the rule applies: the greater the performance of the device, the higher its electrical parameters in value, the correspondingly higher the cost.

This model consumes only 0.6 kW, and the thermal power is almost 5 times higher - 3 kW.

A much more efficient technique is a pool heating heat pump from the French manufacturer Zodiac, model PowerFirst Premium 15MD. Its cost is 320,000 rubles, however, thanks to the electrical parameters, a high degree of savings when using this model is obvious. The power consumption corresponds to a value of 3.6 kW, and the thermal power is 15.7 kW.

Equipment operating on a different principle (air-water), with average performance from another manufacturer (Termonasos) is offered at an affordable price - 76,000 rubles, while the rated power is 1.5 kW, and the thermal equivalent of this parameter is 7.5 kW .

Another option - the Brilix XHP 60 device does not cost much more (RUB 78,000), and operates with the following parameters: rated power - 0.8 kW, thermal power - 5 kW.

A heat pump for heating a pool of this model is used for an amount of water of no more than 20 cubic meters. m.

Depending on the version of the equipment, the manufacturer may recommend special conditions for the operation of the selected model. For example, it is often necessary to install a pump higher than the water level in the pool to increase the efficiency of the device. It is advisable that the device be operated at acceptable temperatures of the ambient air and water in the pool (before the pump starts operating).

The level of humidity in the immediate vicinity of the equipment is also taken into account. For long-term operation of the device, it is necessary to comply with the basic requirements: purchase a version suitable for specific conditions; Make sure that the heat pump is not subject to significant overloads for a long time.

Thus, heat pumps for heating a pool provide significant savings in energy resources, which does not in any way affect the efficiency of such equipment. To make a successful choice, it is enough to correlate the device parameters with the conditions under which it will operate.

For example, the rated and thermal power, the electrical parameters of the device and the electrical network, and the estimated volume of water that needs to be heated are taken into account. More expensive equipment is designed to service large facilities. The main components of such devices are made of particularly durable metal (titanium). Periodic maintenance of this type of equipment will further extend its service life, especially when it comes to the filtration system.

How to choose reliable heat pumps for a swimming pool, review of models

Technical characteristics on the basis of which heat pumps for heating a pool are selected. Criteria for the right choice and popular models.

Heating the water in the pool makes it possible to visit it throughout the year and at the same time places a heavy financial burden on the owners, and costs increase. It is possible to reduce heating costs by 5-8 times by installing a heat pump for the pool. During operation of the heat pump, for each kilowatt of electricity expended, about 5-8 kW of heat is produced.

How does a pool heat pump work?

The principle of operation of a heat pump for heating a pool is similar to that used in installations intended for heating houses, but at the same time it has certain differences associated with design features. The device block consists of the following important components: evaporator, condenser, compressor, heat exchanger, circuit.

Freon circulates through the internal circuit - a refrigerant that can pass from liquid to gaseous state.

Water-to-water heat pumps

Heating a pool with a heat pump that uses low-grade water energy found in reservoirs located nearby the building is the most effective solution. The water circuit is laid on the bottom of the lake, which does not require extensive excavation work and accordingly reduces the costs required for installation work.

Primary water heating circuit - antifreeze circulates through the pipes, heating to a temperature of 6-8°C.

Ground-water heat pumps

Heating of water in the pool using a geothermal heat pump occurs in the same way as in the previous model of equipment. With the peculiarity that the primary heating circuit is laid in the ground or placed in the form of probes in vertical or inclined wells.

The pipes are installed below the freezing point, 30-50 cm. In general, it will be necessary to remove a layer of soil, depending on the region, from 1.3-2 m.

This option is primarily suitable for outdoor and public pools. The latter usually have a large area of adjacent territory, which can be easily used for laying a water circuit. And then, lay out walking paths on top, make sports grounds, etc.

Air-to-water heat pumps

A swimming pool with a water heating system based on a heat pump using low-grade air energy also has the right to exist. The advantage of this solution is its simple installation. The disadvantages include the dependence of the device on the ambient temperature.

How to choose a heat pump for a swimming pool

The performance of thermal stations allows the use of a heat pump to heat water in public and private pools. To ensure that the system does not fail, you will need to correctly calculate the power of the HP, select a model from a suitable manufacturer and calculate how much it will cost to purchase and install the station.

An accurate calculation of the power of the heat pump can be made by the design department of the company selling the equipment. But it is quite possible to perform approximate calculations yourself. To do this you will need:

Determine the total heated area. For example, let's take a coefficient equal to 200 m².

The calculations must take into account whether the system will be used exclusively for heating the water in the pool with a heat pump or whether it is planned to connect the station to heating.

Which brand of heat pump to choose for a swimming pool

Heat pumps designed for heating pool water differ from conventional household appliances in their design features and internal structure.

Several companies manufacture specialized fuel pumps, among which the following four stand out:

Fairland – Logotek company focuses on the production of air source heat pumps. The series includes models characterized by compact size and high performance. The advantages of the device are a titanium heat exchanger and built-in protection against starting at low temperatures. All Fairland heat pumps are equipped with sensitive automation, which significantly improves operating comfort and facilitates operation. Productivity from 6 to 16 kW.

Cost of a heat pump for heating a swimming pool

The cost is most influenced by the performance of the installation. Thus, the Zodiac model, with a power of 90 kW, will cost more than 3 million rubles; such an industrial installation will pay for itself in 7-10 years. Budget heat pumps are several times cheaper. From the same company, a 5 kW station costs only 97,000 rubles, and its analogue, Azuro, will cost even less, about 70,000 rubles.

What is more profitable to heat a pool - a gas boiler or a heat pump?

Installing a heat pump for a swimming pool is highly economical, which cannot be competed with by any of the existing thermal stations. When comparing a gas boiler and a heat pump, the following can be revealed:

Dependence on atmospheric conditions. An air-type heat pump will heat the pool at temperatures down to -15°C. At the same time, heating efficiency drops significantly after reaching a negative point. For this reason, most air-to-water models are equipped with an electric heating element to compensate for the lack of thermal energy. Geothermal units operate at any temperature, just like gas units.

The efficiency of the pumps is determined by the COP. The heat transfer coefficient for different models is 5-8 units. Accordingly, each kW of electricity consumed produces 5-8 kW of heat. The economic difference between a heat pump and a gas boiler when heating a swimming pool is obvious when you consider that, despite the huge initial investment, it only takes a few years to fully pay for the installation.

The circuit, which is the main source of thermal energy extraction, is laid below the freezing point, therefore, the temperature drop does not affect the operation of the station in any way. The gas boiler is also completely insensitive to weather changes.

Many years of experience in using heat pumps in EU countries proves that the use of alternative heating methods is not only possible, but also an effective means of heating any type of premises, as well as heating water for domestic hot water needs, and of course for swimming pools.

Heat pump for a swimming pool - choice of type and manufacturer

The efficiency of a pool heat pump has been proven by many years of experience in using installations in EU countries. The use of renewable energy sources significantly reduces water heating costs

DIY pool heat pump

If you want to make a heat pump yourself to heat your pool, an air-to-water pump is suitable for you. The use of heat pumps is widespread abroad. In Russia, this is a new type of heating technology, but it is beginning to gain its customers due to the fact that the conversion of air, earth or water energy into thermal energy is free. True, the price of such an installation is not cheap yet.

The cost of a heat pump varies from RUB 49,652. up to RUB 2,822,204

You can go the other way and make a pool heat pump with your own hands. For this you will need:

Copper hollow tube.
Polypropylene container.
Metal barrel or tank.
Split system compressor.
Drain and bleed valve, safety valve, clamps.

Understanding a Heat Pump

Ambient air, and in summer this is especially important and such a pump will work more efficiently.
Water.
The soil.

A pool heat pump looks similar to an air conditioner. It just works in the opposite way. It does not cool the air, but heats it. Very convenient for people who do not have the opportunity to install gas equipment. And it consumes little electricity. Some models look very aesthetically pleasing, do not take up much space and are equipped with a digital screen and remote control. On such a device, you just need to set the parameters once, and it will itself control the heating of the water in the pool with a heat pump. And it works at low degrees, which is very important when heating a reservoir in winter.

Homemade heat pump

Holders for it are attached to the place where the compressor will be installed.
Metal hollow tubes are wrapped around the cylinder. A coil is created, the turns must be the same.
You will need a metal container made of two identical halves. The coil is placed in one part. The parts are soldered. Threaded holes are made in the container for the outlet pipes of the coil.
Install a plastic barrel that will serve as an evaporator. The internal circuit pipes are inserted into the barrel.
Plastic pipes are used to drain water into the pool.
All elements are combined into one system.
The specialist fills the structure with freon.

Operation of an air-to-water heat pump for a swimming pool

The air-to-water heat pump for a swimming pool consists of:

A coil that is filled with cooling gas.
Plastic container for evaporating moisture.
Capacitor.
Compressor from a new or old split.

In a plastic evaporator, freon becomes gaseous, taking heat from the environment. The gas enters the compressor, where, due to pressure, the freon is heated and enters the condenser. Here the gas takes on a liquid state, which is used for heat. Favorable temperature in winter, heating of the pool with a heat pump in winter from -10 to -20 degrees. At lower temperatures the pump stops working. To do this, we developed a joint work with electrical equipment that turns on back up when the temperature drops. But as a rule, an outdoor pool is not used at such low temperatures.

Pros of a heat pump

It is environmentally friendly, as it does not release harmful substances into the environment.
Not explosive.
Does not require additional communications. Powered by mains power.
Replaces heating units in winter, cooling units in summer, and heats the pool with a heat pump.
Despite the increased performance, the noise level is quite low.

Disadvantage of a heat pump

High price. It depends on the volume of the pool and on the output power and the type of pool “indoor”, “outdoor”.

Conclusion

Heating a pool in winter with a heat pump is a very convenient way. The desired temperature is set on it, as well as the turn-on time and heating time. You will know for sure that the water does not overheat or cool down. This is a fully automated system that not only can heat the water in the pool, but also heats the house in winter. It is better to purchase this heating system from an authorized dealer, where you can always seek advice and receive warranty service. But in order to avoid problems with the heating device during the period between maintenance, it is necessary to monitor the operation of the system:

Remove accumulated debris from the grill and wipe it clean from dust.
Lubricate parts.
Change used oil.
Check the tubes for leaks.
Monitor the heat sensor.

IMPORTANT! Air-to-water heat pumps have a peculiarity - the nearest body of water should not be more than 100 m. To ensure the required thermal efficiency, the circuit is located deeper than 3 meters from the surface.

DIY pool heat pump

If you want to make a heat pump yourself to heat your pool, an air-to-water pump will suit you

How to choose and install a pool heat pump

Heat pumps are undoubtedly one of the best inventions in the field of heating systems. It literally makes it possible to extract the energy necessary to create comfortable conditions directly from the air, as well as from the earth or water. If you use a pool heat pump, the cost of heating water can be significantly reduced.

How it works

Energy is everywhere, even in those objects that seem exceptionally cold to us. This energy just has a low potential. Heat pumps allow you to extract it from the environment and convert it into energy with high potential. In this state, thermal energy can be used for heating.

Heat pumps, like refrigerators, operate according to the Carnot principle. The refrigerator moves thermal energy from the chamber to the surrounding space to create a cooling effect, while the heat pump works in the opposite direction.

Such a system consists of two main parts - external and internal, between them there is a compressor and an evaporator. So, the coolant circulates through a system of pipes that are located outside. At the same time, it absorbs energy dissipated in the thickness of the earth, in water or in the air, depending on the type of pump.

The coolant then passes through the evaporator chamber filled with refrigerant (usually freon). The refrigerant boils at a very low temperature. Heating upon contact with low potential thermal energy, it turns into a gaseous state and enters the compressor.

Here the gas is heated and moved to the condenser. The refrigerant then cools, returning to a liquid state again, and the heat it has collected goes into the internal heating system, i.e. to the heating system of a house or, in this case, a swimming pool. The cycle is repeated many times.

Of course, for the operation of such a system, namely pumping units, a certain amount of electricity will be required, without access to which the system will not be able to operate. But the amount of electricity required by a heat pump is about four times less than the cost of heating water directly with an electric heater. With a consumption of less than 2.5 kW of power to operate electricity, a heat pump can generate more than 10 kW of thermal energy.

How to choose the right system

The design features of the heat pump make it more resistant to high humidity than any other water heating system. But you need to choose the right type of heat pump, i.e. determine the source of low-grade thermal energy.

The more stable the ambient temperature, the more efficient the heat pump operates. Land is considered the best option in this regard, but practical implementation requires the fulfillment of a number of not very simple conditions.

A spacious plot of land and large-scale excavation work will be required. The pipes through which water circulates will have to be placed deep in the soil; fulfilling this requirement is not always possible or convenient. Ground-to-water heat pumps are rarely used for swimming pools.

A water heat pump is a little easier to install, since water is used as an energy source. The best option is a nearby body of water: pond, lake, river, etc. Not all land owners have access to such resources. A more affordable solution to the problem is to lower the water pipes into a well or well. This means that an additional water source may have to be built on the site.

Less time and effort will be required to install a heat pump that consumes energy dissipated in the air masses. To organize intensive air exchange, powerful fans are used. There is no need to lay pipes in the ground or drill a new well.

Of course, the heating efficiency of an air source heat pump may be slightly lower than when using stable energy sources such as earth or water. However, for use during the season from spring to autumn, and not all year round, this model is ideal. Most pools on sites are used during this period.

The heat pump can also be used in conjunction with other heating systems, such as electric heating. To heat a home, such models are sometimes combined with a gas or electric boiler. This is especially appropriate in areas with harsh climates, since at air temperatures below -20 degrees, the efficiency of heat pumps sharply decreases.

A feature of any industrial heat pump model is its high price. You can reduce costs if you build such a device yourself. This is not a very difficult task; many craftsmen have successfully completed it. But industrial models are more reliable, efficient and easier to manage.

According to reviews, the high cost of an industrial heat pump model pays off within the first couple of years of operation, and sometimes in just a few months. In this case, it is very important to choose a model whose power will exactly match the heat needs of the facility.

Heat losses of the object

To choose the right heat pump by power, you need to determine the heat losses of the object in which the device will be installed. In the case of a swimming pool, consider:

the place where the pool is located;
availability and degree of reliability of the pool;
volume of the bathing bowl;
initial water temperature;
optimal water temperature for swimming;
the presence of additional factors influencing changes in water temperature: heating the air in an indoor building, air conditioning, etc.

These calculations are quite specific; it is better to entrust them to a specialist. Useful recommendations can be obtained from experienced specialists who manufacture or sell heat pumps. When choosing a heat pump, information about the power of the device’s heat exchanger will also be useful.

This indicator reflects the consumption of thermal energy to heat water in the pool over a certain period of time. In simplified form, the formula might look like:

1.16 – correction factor for heat losses;
ΔT – the number of degrees separating the initial and final water temperature in the pool, ºС;
t – operating time of the device until the required water temperature is reached, hour;
V – volume of the bathing bowl, cubic meters. m.

Of course, this formula does not take into account a number of factors such as the influence of heating in the indoor pool, the presence of air conditioning, the presence of insulation, etc. But when choosing a suitable heat pump model, such a calculation can be very useful. During the calculations, it is useful to take into account that the optimal air temperature for an indoor pool is 28 degrees, and the water temperature is 24 degrees.

A few more important points

When choosing a suitable heat pump, you should focus not only on its power. Other factors are also important. For example, these are the dimensions of a pump that resembles a large metal box. The installation location is usually chosen in advance; you should make sure that the selected model will fit freely there, while leaving enough space for the person who will install and maintain the device.

The smaller the difference between the air temperature outside and the water temperature in the pool, the more effective the use of a heat pump will be, and the higher its performance. The automatic control of some models allows you to change the operation of the pump, taking into account not only the outside temperature, but also the rate of cooling of the water in the pool, as well as the ability of the building (if we are talking about an indoor pool) to retain heat.

During operation, the heat pump vibrates and makes noise. The less noise on the site, the better. Before purchasing, you should find a way to evaluate the noise level that different heat pump models produce.

The cost of the unit can be significantly affected by the presence of an automatic control unit. If funds allow, you should not refuse this modern and convenient addition. Firstly, automation increases comfort when using the equipment, since you do not have to constantly be distracted to turn it on, adjust, turn it off, etc.

Secondly, operating the device in automatic mode significantly increases its service life, i.e. lifetime. But breakdowns are still possible. Having correctly completed warranty documents for the device will help to minimize problems associated with the operation of the heat pump.

However, having an official form with a stamp is not enough. Sometimes sellers modestly keep silent about the fact that warranty repairs are carried out only by a specialized enterprise, which is located a hundred kilometers from the installation site of the equipment. It also happened that the device had to be sent abroad for repair. Such warranty service is extremely inconvenient, since it takes the owner months of time.

Craftsmen who are comfortable with simple repairs of household appliances should study in advance the device features of the selected model and access to spare parts. If the necessary parts are not available somewhere nearby, you will have to special order them, pay for long delivery times, etc. prudence will help avoid such problems.

Device installation features

The procedure for connecting a pool heat pump depends on the features of the specific model. Therefore, before starting work, you should carefully study the manufacturer’s instructions and strictly follow the requirements and recommendations contained therein. Typically, industrial models are supplied already assembled and with a set of components necessary for installation.

1 - Pool heat pump

2 - Remote control device

3 - Clean water for the pool

4 - Circulation pump

5 - Bypass (bypass) and control valves

6 - Water supply pipe from the pool

During the connection, you will need to install a couple of pipes, as well as provide power. The heater is installed in the pool maintenance system so that it is located after the filtration system and before the chlorinator.

It is very important to choose the right place to install the equipment. Typically, an air-to-water pump is an impressively sized unit, reminiscent of the outdoor unit of a split-system air conditioner. Place to install such equipment

Ore mining must meet the following requirements:

good ventilation;
absence of obstacles to the movement of air masses;
distance from open fire and other heat sources;
protection from external environmental factors: precipitation, debris falling from above, etc.;
accessibility for maintenance and necessary repairs.

Most often, the heat pump is installed under a canopy. For additional protection, you can install a couple of side walls, but they should not in any way interfere with the air flow that is pumped by the fans. The pump is mounted on a metal frame; the base must be strictly horizontal. This will minimize problems such as vibration and noise during operation of the device, and will also protect the device from damage.

When installing the heat pump and connecting it to the system, it is important to make sure that all its elements are clean. It wouldn’t hurt to check the inner surface of the pipes used to make the connection. All pipe connections through which water circulates must be carefully sealed and checked for leaks. To prevent vibration from the heat pump during its operation from being transmitted to the rest of the system, it makes sense to consider connecting using flexible hoses.

Providing power to the heat pump will require special attention. It must fully comply with the rules for installing electrical equipment, taking into account all fire safety requirements. There is usually a high level of humidity around a swimming pool, and the likelihood of electrical equipment coming into contact with water increases significantly. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully insulate all electrical contacts, additionally protecting them from possible contact with moisture.

In the connection diagram of the heat pump to the power supply, it is imperative to include automatic switches, which are equipped with sensors that respond to temperature increases. You will also need protection devices that will prevent current leakage.

All conductive components must be grounded. To connect cables, both power and control, you will need special terminal blocks. The manufacturer's instructions usually indicate the required cross-section of electrical cables through which the equipment can be connected to the power supply. These data must be adhered to. The cable cross-section may be larger than recommended, but not smaller.

Homemade heat pump

If you make a heat pump yourself, you can save a lot, but the efficiency of such devices is somewhat lower than that of industrially manufactured models. First, individual pump elements are manufactured, then they are combined into a common system. The evaporator can be made from a large plastic tank. A copper coil is installed inside.

To make a coil, a copper pipe can be carefully wound around a gas cylinder or other suitable cylindrical object to give it the desired shape. Another coil is made in the same way - for the evaporator. This element is placed inside another tank, this time metal, welding work will be required.

The compressor is simply purchased or removed from another device, for example, from a broken air conditioner. When these three devices are ready, they are connected into a common system. The compressor is then charged with refrigerant. All that remains is to connect the evaporator to a fan that blows air, and the condenser to the water heating system in the pool.

The LG Therma V air-to-water heat pump is an alternative to heating systems based on fuel and gas combustion.

LG Electronics, the world's leading manufacturer of climate control equipment, introduced a heating system to the Russian market Therma V.

The operating principle of a heat pump is based on the conversion of renewable energy taken from the environment. The thermal energy absorbed from the air passes through the pump heat exchanger to a safe refrigerant with a low boiling point. Having received heat, the refrigerant boils and turns into a gaseous state. Thanks to the use of an inverter-driven compressor, its pressure increases, thereby increasing the temperature, and the resulting heat, in turn, enters the water distribution system, heating the room and providing hot water.

Model range of heat pumps air water LG Therma V

AH-W096A0	AH-W126A0	AH-W146A0	AH-W166A0

Power 9 kW	Power 12 kW	Power 14 kW	Power 16 kW

Heating costs make up the majority of the costs associated with operating a building. Therefore, when choosing the optimal type of fuel and heating equipment, it is necessary to take into account the costs over a long period of time. Compared to traditional heating systems, LG Therma V heat pumps have significant advantages. First of all, if there is no domestic or natural gas network in the area where the facility is located, and connecting to an existing network is expensive, using an air source heat pump significantly reduces the cost of installing a heating system, especially since the Therma V system is easy to install.

However, when choosing an economical type of heating, you cannot rely only on installation costs; long-term costs must also be taken into account. The operation of LG Therma V is significant savings: a high level of energy efficiency allows you to receive up to 4 kW of heat for every kilowatt of electricity consumed. Thus, using Therma V, ¾ of the energy required to heat a room can be obtained without any material investment.

Compliance with global environmental requirements is also one of the important distinguishing characteristics of the LG air source heat pump. The operation of Therma V does not cause a destructive effect on the ozone layer and has minimal carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere. The Therma V system consists of 2 units: external and internal (hydraulic module), the model range of which includes units with power from 9 to 16 kW. The use of air-to-air heat pumps for space heating is becoming increasingly common. All of the above characteristics of Therma V along with high reliability and competitive price make this LG product extremely attractive to consumers.

Heat pump air water prices

An air-water heat pump pays for its price by saving electricity over a period of 1.5 to 4 years, depending on the power and installation location. Prices for heat pumps start from 124,000 rubles.

Ecology of consumption. Estate: Swimming pools, regardless of size, require heating at any time of the year. For this, various devices are used to maintain the temperature.

Swimming pools, regardless of size, require heating at any time of the year. For this, various devices are used to maintain the temperature.

A pool heat pump is perfect for solving this problem correctly. This is a special converter that allows you to create thermal energy for heating water as efficiently as possible, without disturbing the surrounding ecology.

Design and operating principle

The main advantage of heat pumps is that they allow you not only to fully automatically heat the water in the pool, but also to control its temperature level within the required range.

Scheme of operation of a heat pump with refrigerant

According to reviews from owners, this greatly simplifies the maintenance of such an object. It uses classic heat to heat the water in the pool.

The principle of operation is similar and works exactly like similar devices in heating systems, when the consumer receives heat directly from the primary source: groundwater, soil, or air.

It is important to know: the water-to-water pipeline must be buried in the ground.

Due to the constant heat of groundwater, regardless of the season, heating with such a pump can be carried out all year round. The main element, due to which such a heat pump takes heat directly from the primary source, is the collector.

The better its heat transfer performance, the more efficient the operation of such a pump. It is equipped with a special substance, like antifreeze, which allows it to absorb heat with very little temperature difference.

The main component inside such devices is the refrigerant. It is he, circulating in the system, that changes its state from liquid to gaseous, due to changes in two factors: temperature and pressure.

Main advantages

The main advantages of such pumps can be considered:

the ability to maintain a constant water temperature level specified by the owner throughout the pool;
saving energy during its conversion into heat. Thus, such devices can convert ordinary electricity into heat in a ratio of 1:5. Due to this, from 1 kW of consumed electricity, approximately 4 kW of thermal energy is obtained;

This is what heat loss from a regular outdoor pool looks like

maximum environmental friendliness, due to the absence of the need to burn fuel and release pollutants onto the site;
reliability and long service life. And if any problems arise in its operation, it automatically turns off and it signals a breakdown;
ease of use, due to automation of the entire process, makes it possible to simply select the desired temperature without additional manipulations;
maximum efficiency among all other types of heating, not only in terms of electricity consumption, but also in terms of heating speed.

Criterias of choice

When choosing such units, it is necessary to take into account factors such as:

Conditions in which it will be used: either it is an outdoor pool, or it is supposed to be located indoors.
Where the device itself will be located, the level of availability of sources from which potential energy can be extracted.
If it is in a building, what type of roof will it be?
Initial indicators of water temperature, as well as its maximum required values.
Pool volume. The more water it contains, the correspondingly greater the power of the unit should be.
Availability of additional sources of heat and ventilation, be it heating or air conditioning (for premises).
The ability to easily connect not only to the electrical network, but also to the water circuit, which will make installation and maintenance much easier.

An example of the location of a heat pump on an outdoor pool, where communications are laid underground

terms of Use

So, in most cases, the pump must be placed above the water level to increase its efficiency. The launch must be carried out at an acceptable temperature level of both and the surrounding air.

This is what the pool looks like and all the communications for heating the water and filtering it

It is also necessary to comply with the operating conditions of the equipment. It is necessary that the humidity level at the installation site of the unit does not exceed the permissible values for it, and that there are no prolonged overloads and no overheating.

Good to know: so that the pump does not quickly fail, you need to take care of the correct filtration of the water entering it.

This will not only allow the pump to last a long time, but will also save energy consumption, which may increase due to its improper use and failure to comply with proper operating conditions.

Watch the following video for a review of one of the pool manufacturers:

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