Pool Heat Pump Calculator

BTU Calculation Formula:

\[ BTU = \text{Surface Area} \times \text{Solar Gain} + \text{Volume} \times \Delta T \text{ Factor} \]

Surface Area:

ft²

Solar Gain Factor:

BTU/ft²

Volume:

gallons

Temperature Difference (ΔT):

°F

ΔT Factor:

BTU/gallon·°F

Required BTU Output:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Pool Heat Pump Sizing?

Pool heat pump sizing calculates the required BTU output needed to efficiently heat your swimming pool based on surface area, volume, and temperature requirements. Proper sizing ensures optimal performance and energy efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BTU calculation formula:

\[ BTU = \text{Surface Area} \times \text{Solar Gain} + \text{Volume} \times \Delta T \text{ Factor} \]

Where:

\( \text{Surface Area} \) — Pool surface area in square feet (ft²)
\( \text{Solar Gain} \) — Solar radiation factor in BTU per square foot
\( \text{Volume} \) — Pool volume in gallons
\( \Delta T \text{ Factor} \) — Temperature difference factor in BTU per gallon per °F

Explanation: The formula accounts for both solar heat gain through the pool surface and the energy required to heat the water volume based on desired temperature increase.

3. Importance of Proper Sizing

Details: Correct heat pump sizing is crucial for efficient pool heating. An undersized unit will struggle to maintain temperature, while an oversized unit will cycle too frequently, reducing efficiency and lifespan.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter accurate measurements of your pool's surface area and volume. Consider local climate conditions for solar gain factor and desired temperature increase for ΔT calculations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical solar gain factor?
A: Solar gain typically ranges from 100-300 BTU/ft² depending on geographic location, season, and pool orientation.

Q2: How do I calculate pool volume?
A: For rectangular pools: Length × Width × Average Depth × 7.5. For circular pools: π × Radius² × Average Depth × 7.5.

Q3: What ΔT factor should I use?
A: Typical ΔT factors range from 8.33-8.34 BTU/gallon·°F, representing the energy needed to raise 1 gallon of water by 1°F.

Q4: How does pool cover affect calculations?
A: Pool covers can reduce heat loss by 50-70%, potentially allowing for a smaller heat pump size.

Q5: What about heat pump efficiency (COP)?
A: Heat pumps typically have COP ratings of 4-6, meaning they produce 4-6 units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed.