Inground Pool Heaters & Heat Pumps

Yes, heat pumps are designed for continuous operation. Running yours on a maintained schedule through the WiFi app is usually more efficient than powering it on and off, since it takes less energy to hold a temperature than to reheat cooled water from scratch.

Install it in an open, well-ventilated spot near your existing pool equipment pad, a few feet clear of walls, fences, or enclosures so air can flow freely across the coil. Avoid low spots where cold air collects, and keep it away from dryer vents or other heat sources nearby.

Sizing up one tier from our BTU chart is worth it if you're in a cooler climate or want to swim into spring and fall. Going well beyond your pool's actual needs mainly adds upfront cost without much extra benefit, since heat pumps run most efficiently when sized to hold steady rather than cycling on and off.

It's a moderate project. The unit connects to your existing plumbing after the filter and before the return line and needs a dedicated electrical circuit. Most owners hire a licensed electrician for the electrical hookup, while the plumbing connections are straightforward for an experienced DIYer.

Heat pumps are the most energy-efficient way to heat a pool, since they move existing heat from the air rather than generating it, unlike gas heaters. Actual running cost depends on local electricity rates, pool size, and climate, but most owners find it far cheaper to operate than a comparable gas unit over a season.

Match the heat pump's BTU output to your pool size in gallons: 16,000-20,000 BTU for pools up to 5,000 gallons, 25,000-35,000 BTU for 5,000-10,000 gallons, 40,000-55,000 BTU for 10,000-15,000 gallons, 55,000-70,000 BTU for 15,000-20,000 gallons, 85,000-110,000 BTU for 20,000-30,000 gallons, and 120,000+ BTU for pools over 30,000 gallons. Size up one tier if you're in a cooler climate or want to swim into the shoulder months.

A well-maintained heat pump typically lasts 10 to 15 years, depending on usage patterns and regular maintenance.