Pool heat pumps

[dansdad]

I have read about solar covers, and solar panels ( which I have ) now Im interested in heat pumps vs gas heaters. I have a 13 k pool and need to take the chill off so as to enjoy the pool. What do those of you who have them think about the benefit. I know it costs more but I probably will use it more for therapy than before. Thanks for chiming in

[CarlD]

I don't have personal experience but everything I've read says heat pumps are far more efficient and economical to run. Makes sense because the hp sweet spot is when the air temp is in the 50's and higher. Their bad rep is from being used to heat houses where temps go down to the 30's and 20's, where hps work very badly.

[dansdad]

thanks Carl great info

[CarlD]

Of course, you have to figure a few other things in:
1) Initial cost. HPs cost quite a bit more. But they are easier to install, needing only electric, not electric and gas. How long will it take for the cost to be amortized by the fuel savings?
2) Which ones are the most reliable. Can't help you there.
3) You can't really run them intermittently as they take far longer to warm up a pool than a gas heater. I think the max BTU is about 125K, with a 100K being typical, while gas heaters go up to 400K BTUs.

This isn't research but things to watch and check as you do your research. Hope it all helps.