Top 10 Pool Heat Pump FAQs - Medallion Energy

Author: Adelaide

Jul. 14, 2025

Top 10 Pool Heat Pump FAQs - Medallion Energy

Have a few questions about your pool heat pump? Thinking of getting one?

Goto Bobiller to know more.

Odds are you’ll find the answers you need in this post

Whether you own a heat pump or are thinking about getting one, you’ve probably had a few questions at one point or another.  “How do they work”, “how long do they last”, and so on.

That said, there are a few questions in particular that seem to pop up often. And those are the questions we’re focusing on.

We’re shedding light on the most common pool heat pump FAQS, and sprinkling in some pool heat pump troubleshooting tips while we’re at it.

So if you have a question about your pool heat pump, this post might just have the answer. If not, you could always ask a pool heat pump specialist.

Top 10 Pool Heat Pump FAQs & Answers

1.) How does a pool heat pump work

A heat pump uses electricity to harvest natural heat. It all starts when the heat pump spins its fan and pulls in warm air. The warm air passes over an evaporator coil and reacts with a refrigerant inside the tubes. This reaction creates a warm gas which gets sent to a compressor. The compressor then compresses the warm gas into a hot gas.

In the last steps of the process, the hot gas travels to the heat exchanger where it heats up an inner titanium tube. As water travels through the outer PVC tubing of the heat exchanger, it’s warmed by the inner heated titanium tubing. From here, the heated water gets pumped into the pool, as more water gets pumped into the heater.

And at that point, the heating process repeats until the pool reaches the target temperature specified on the heat pump.

[Learn more about how heat pumps work]

2.) What size heat pump do I need?

Of all the pool heat pump FAQs, this could be the most important in terms of making a purchase. The size of the heat pump you need for your pool largely depends on two major factors: your location, and the size of your pool.

Usually, the bigger your pool, the bigger your pool heater should be. And depending on where you live, a bigger, or smaller heater may be ideal for maintaining your desired temperature.

You can learn how to size your heat pump in this post, or use our heat pump sizing calculator.

3.) How much does it cost to heat a pool with a heat pump?

The cost of heating a pool with a heat pump ranges from $50-150 per month, the lowest of nearly all pool heating options. And compared to gas and electric resistance at $300+, it’s easy to see why energy efficiency matters.

But, no matter what kind of pool heater you have, using a solar cover can help improve your heating efficiency drastically.

4.) How long do pool heat pumps last?

Even without a lick of maintenance, a pool heat pump easily lasts 10 to 20 years. But, with good maintenance, a pool heat pump can literally last a lifetime.

[Learn 7 ways to extend your pool heat pump’s lifespan]

Most problems that affect aged heat pumps can usually be avoided altogether with regular service and maintenance. Think of them like cars.

If you take good care of your car and service it on the regular, it treats you well. But neglect your car and forget your oil changes, and you’re in for loads of costly repairs down the road.

5.) How fast can a heat pump heat my pool? (How long does it take to heat a swimming pool?)

A heat pump can heat a pool by 20 degrees Fahrenheit in 24-72 hours. The precise heating rate depends on the size of the pool, outdoor temperature, and whether or not a solar cover is used.

6.) What’s the coldest temperature a heat pump will function at?

The coldest temperature most heat pumps will function at is 50 degrees Fahrenheit. But heat pumps with certified low-temperature performance, like the Oasis Platinum Ultra Quiet, can function all the way down to the 30s. This feature can be especially helpful for pool owners up north looking to extend their swim season.

Keep in mind that although a heat pump will still heat down to its cutoff temperature, heating effectiveness is often affected.

Pool Heat Pump FAQs (Troubleshooting)

7.) Why is my pool heat pump running but not heating?

A pool heat pump that runs but doesn’t heat can mean a few things. So, here are a few answers to go with your pool heat pump FAQs.

Here’s what to check for:

  • Check the air temperature. A pool heat pump requires warm air to operate most effectively. But in cooler temperatures, the heat pump runs longer to compensate.
  • Make sure your pool pump is sending enough water your heater. A heat pump needs a steady supply of water to properly handle heat transfer and production.
  • Clear any obstructions or debris from the vents. This ensures optimal air flow, which is essential to an air-source heat pump’s heating process.

8.) Why does my pool heater keep shutting off?

When a heat pump keeps shutting off, it usually means one of two things: an electrical, or water pressure issue

If your heat pump is displaying any error codes related to “FLO” or ” LO/HI”, then the issue is related to water pressure. Most of the time, fixing these problems involve troubleshooting your pool pump or a part in the heater. Learn more here

Now, if your pump is running and not displaying error codes, then power it down and inspect the electrical setup.

First, walk over to the heat pump and check the electric terminals for any corrosion or damage. From there, check the wiring leading from the pump to the breaker for any wear. Last, check the breaker and confirm that it’s sending adequate power to the heat pump.

Are you interested in learning more about Commercial Heat Pump? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Learn more about troubleshooting your heat pump.

9.) Why is my heat pump leaking?

Among the full collection of pool heat pump FAQs, this one may be the most common, both online and in the real world.

There’s a good chance that what you’re seeing is just natural condensation. Every heat pump will “sweat” and produce a small puddle every now and then. This usually happens when the heat pump is doing a defrost.

That said, it isn’t impossible for a heat pump to spring a leak. And luckily there are plenty of ways to test where the water is coming from, which we explain in this post.

10.) Why does my heat pump say FLO?

In most heat pumps, the “FLO” error code indicates a water pressure issue. It can mean that water flow is being restricted, or that none is being detected at all.

Sometimes, water flow issues can be caused by a blockage in the pool system, originating anywhere from the filter to the pump and skimmer baskets.

So the best course of action is to start small: clear out the skimmer, then the pump basket. From there, check your filter to make sure it’s clean and allowing water flow at the correct pressure.

If everything checks out, and the pump is definitely receiving enough water, then the issue is likely a defective water pressure switch. Luckily this part is fairly inexpensive and simple to replace.

[Find pool heat pump parts here]

*BONUS: Pool Heat Pump FAQs

What’s the difference between heat pumps and gas pool heaters?

Pool heat pumps use small amounts of electricity to harvest and magnify natural heat. Gas pool heaters burn gas or propane to produce heat. Ten guesses which one is more affordable per month.

Learn more about these two heaters in this post: Heat Pumps vs Gas Pool Heaters

What does C.O.P mean?

C.O.P stands for Coefficient of Performance, which is a number used to rank a pool heat pump’s energy efficiency. Specifically, it represents the amount of energy a machine produces per unit of energy that it consumes.

For instance, a heat pump like the Oasis Platinum Ultra Quiet features a COP of 6.5. This means that for every unit of energy the heater consumes, it produces 6.5 units worth of heat. High energy efficiency like that has a major impact on lowering your swimming pool’s energy bill.

Learn more about COP.

Closing Thoughts

We this post offered some helpful answers for your questions on pool heat pumps. Naturally, we couldn’t cover every question ever asked about pool heat pumps. But, that’s because we’ve answered a lot of them in the past already.

If you’re still trying to learn more about heat pumps, start here:

Your Pool Heater Questions Answered - SPS Pool Care

Nothing beats the luxury of owning a perfectly heated pool and being able to enjoy a swim all year long. But if you’re considering adding a swimming pool heater or upgrading your current system, you probably have a few questions. From choosing the right type to understanding pool heater costs, educating yourself ahead of time can make all the difference in your pool’s comfort and efficiency.

At SPS PoolCare, we understand how to wade through the complexities of the world of pool heat pumps, gas heaters, and solar options. We have compiled answers to some of the most common questions about pool heaters so you can make the best choice for your pool and personal lifestyle.

1. What Are the Types of Pool Heaters?

There are three primary types of pool heaters, all of which play different roles. Each option has its advantages, so your decision will depend on factors like climate, budget, and usage habits. Here’s an overview:

  • Gas pool heaters. They run on propane or natural gas and heat your pool quickly, making them ideal for pools that are used intermittently.
  • Electric pool heat pumps. They use electricity to transfer heat from the air to the water, making them an efficient but slower choice.
  • Solar pool heaters. They use solar panels to harness the sun’s energy. While they are the most eco-friendly, their effectiveness depends on your area’s sunlight availability.

2. What Size Pool Heater Do I Need?

Choosing the right heater size depends on your pool’s volume, surface area, and climate. Larger pools or pools in cooler areas require higher British thermal units (Btu) ratings. A common rule of thumb is that for every 1,000 gallons of water, you need at least 50,000 Btus.

However, other factors like wind exposure and desired temperature increase should also be considered. Consulting the pool professionals at SPS PoolCare can help ensure you get the most efficient heater for your needs.

3. How Does a Pool Heater Work?

The process can vary slightly, but generally, a pool heater pulls water from the pool, heats it, and returns it to the water supply. Gas heaters burn fuel to generate heat, heat pumps extract warmth from the air, and solar heaters convert sunlight to energy.

A common question we get is, “How long does it take a pool to heat up?” The answer depends on the quality of your heater, pool size, and existing outside temperature. A gas heater can warm a pool within a few hours, while a heat pump or solar system may take a full day or more.

4. How Much Energy Do Pool Heaters Use?

Energy consumption depends on the type and size of your pool heater. Gas heaters typically have the highest energy usage, while pool heat pumps and solar heaters are more efficient. Investing in an energy efficient heater can lead to significant savings over time. Here are some more efficiency tips to save money:

  • Use a solar cover to retain heat.
  • Run the heater only when needed.
  • Choose a high-efficiency model that meets ENERGY STAR standards.

5. How Much Does a Pool Heater Cost?

Pool heater cost varies widely based on the build, size, and installation requirements. Gas heaters are generally more affordable upfront but have higher operating costs. Electric heat pumps and solar systems have higher initial investments but lower long-term expenses. You should consider your budget and future home plans before deciding.

6. When Is Pool Heater Repair Necessary?

Like any part of your house, your swimming pool heater will need maintenance and occasional pool heater repair. Thankfully, there are some signs that your heater may need attention that you can keep an eye out for. These include:

  • Lukewarm water. The pool isn’t reaching your desired temperature after having enough time to heat up.
  • Strange sounds. You hear unusual noises or screeches from the unit.
  • Unreliable utility. Your heater is cycling on and off randomly.
  • Broken parts. There’s visible damage or corrosion to external or internal components.

Investing in regular pool servicing can help extend the life of your heater and prevent costly breakdowns. SPS PoolCare is a trusted source of reliable pool services that include routine maintenance, cleaning, and upgrades. When you choose our team, you can continue to enjoy your pool with peace of mind.

Expert Pool Services From SPS PoolCare

Make owning a pool a joy with SPS PoolCare. We offer a suite of professional pool care services that can be a valuable investment whether your home has a small patio pool or a sprawling backyard oasis. Our friendly technicians have the experience necessary to keep your pool warm and inviting all year long.

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