Question 1

How does a pool heat pump actually work?

Accepted Answer

A fan draws ambient air across an evaporator coil, where a refrigerant absorbs the warmth held in that air. A compressor turns the refrigerant into a hot gas, which passes through a titanium heat exchanger and transfers its heat straight into your pool water. Your existing pool pump moves the water through the unit, so nothing extra is needed. The heat is taken from the air rather than created with electricity, which is why running costs stay low.

Question 2

Why is titanium better than copper for a heat exchanger?

Accepted Answer

Copper corrodes when pool chemistry drifts out of balance, and it suffers badly in saltwater pools. Titanium is fully corrosion resistant, shrugs off chemical imbalances and lasts far longer, so you avoid the pinhole leaks and constant checks that come with copper exchangers.

Question 3

How much does it cost to run a heat pump compared to other heating methods?

Accepted Answer

A heat pump moves heat rather than generating it, so for every unit of electricity it uses it delivers several units of heat into the pool. Compared with electric or gas heating, that means a fraction of the running cost for the same water temperature. Costs vary with pool size, target temperature, whether you use a cover and the time of year, and we will give you a realistic figure for your own pool.

Question 4

How noisy is a Flare heat pump?

Accepted Answer

Our units are among the quietest available. In normal use you hear a low fan hum, similar to a modern air conditioning unit, and it is easily placed so it does not disturb you, your family or your neighbours.

Question 5

How long does installation take?

Accepted Answer

Most installations are completed in a single day. We position the unit, connect it into your existing pool pipework and electrical supply, commission it and show you how to set your temperature before we leave.

Question 6

Does the heat pump work in winter and on cloudy days?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Unlike solar heating it does not need sunshine, only air. In the Canarian climate there is plenty of usable warmth in the air throughout the winter, and the unit will keep working on cloudy days, in the evening and overnight.

Question 7

How much will my pool temperature increase?

Accepted Answer

Water heats by roughly three to four degrees centigrade on each pass through the unit, and the cycle repeats all day. Over a day or two a correctly sized heat pump will lift a whole pool to a comfortable swimming temperature and then hold it there.

Question 8

What maintenance does a titanium heat pump need?

Accepted Answer

Very little. Keep the air intake and fan clear of leaves and debris, keep the casing clean and have the unit checked periodically. Because the heat exchanger is titanium, there are no maintenance issues caused by chemical attack.

Question 9

Will a heat pump work with a saltwater pool?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and titanium is the right choice for it. Saltwater and salt chlorination are exactly the conditions that shorten the life of a copper exchanger, while titanium is unaffected.

Question 10

How do I know what size heat pump I need?

Accepted Answer

Size depends on your pool volume, where the pool sits, how sheltered it is, the temperature you want and how often you swim. Use our sizing calculator for a guide, then talk to us and we will confirm the exact recommendation for your pool.

Everything you wanted to ask about pool heat pumps

Frequently asked questions