The Best Heat Pumps
Heat pumps serve to provide optimal water temperature in the pool.
Those are potent units with not so quiet operation.
Therefore, when getting a heat pump, there are a few factors to consider, including the noise.
Otherwise, it can spoil relax time with unpleasant sounds.
To ease your quest for a suitable heat pump, we gather information on the best heat pumps on the market.
After reviews, you can find a buying guide and learn more about factors consider when buying a heat pump.
Highest Rated Heat Pumps (by Customer Reviews)
- 1TRANE TR21474T Residential Pool Heat Pump
- 2Jandy Stealth High Efficiency Uprated Pump
- 3Laing E14 1-1/2-Inch Buttress Thread Circulation Spa Pump
- 4Summer Waves SFX1000 Complete Filtration System with X1000 Pump
- 5Hayward HP21404T HeatPro Titanium 140,000 BTU Pool Heat Pump
- 6Balboa VS520SZ Dual Pump Controller Kit
- 7Pentair Sta-Rite P6RA6F-206L Max-E-Pro Standard Efficiency Single Speed Up-Rated Pool and Spa Pump,
- 8Hayward HP21104T HeatPro Titanium 110,000 BTU AHRI Residential Pool Heat Pump
- 9Pentair Dynamo 1.5 Horsepower Above Ground Pool Pump
- 10Hayward HP50TA Residential Pool Heat Pump Titanium 50,000 BTU AHRI
1
TRANE TR21474T Residential Pool Heat Pump
The residential pool heat pump from Trane is an energy-efficient solution with the power of 140,000 BTU.
The pump features cabinet made from polymer, to prevent corrosion or other deterioration.
This Trane pump features a dual electronic thermostat with an easy-to-change water temperature set point.
It has a self-diagnostic code monitor performance and is compatible with a variety of other control systems.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Easy installation
- Simple and quick drop-in replacement
- Corrosion-resistant evaporator coil
Cons
- A bit overpriced
Jake's TakeThis heat pump can be installed in minutes.
Furthermore, it has a relatively quiet operation.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
2
Jandy Stealth High Efficiency Uprated Pump
The Jandy Stealth heath pump features two speeds.
Because the pump has a large trap basket, it can reduce costs.
The pump has a convenient design, with an ergonomic handle, so it easy to carry it around.
Heat indicators are clearly visible and the pump doesn’t produce a loud noise.
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Pros
- Trouble-free installation
- Quiet
- Easy to read and understand indicators
Cons
- High price tag
Jake's TakeThis Jandy Stealth pump will be your ally for all your spa and pool needs.
It is easy to install and it does a great job in regulating water temperature.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
3
Laing E14 1-1/2-Inch Buttress Thread Circulation Spa Pump
The Laing pump is a spa pump and features compact, easy to handle design.
The pump is a budget-friendly option and comes with the instruction for a proper installment.
It uses the 115 Watts power.
The Laing pump comes with a 3 1/2 feet cord with an Amp plug.
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Pros
- Long cord
- Budget-friendly
- Compact
Cons
- Can be a bit noisy
Jake's TakeThis Laing pump works flawlessly for the smaller spa units.
It is easy to install and reduces costs.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
4
Summer Waves SFX1000 Complete Filtration System with X1000 Pump
The Summer Waves unit offers a complete pump system with all hoses and wall fittings.
It includes the X1000 pump motor as well.
The system is suitable for use with metal frame pools with a round opening in the liner.
The entire system is rather easy to install.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Simple installment
- Comes with everything you need for a setup
Cons
- Can affect the flow
Jake's TakeYou don’t need to hire a professional to install this system.
It has everything you need for setup and serves as a whole filtration system.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
5
Hayward HP21404T HeatPro Titanium 140,000 BTU Pool Heat Pump
The Hayward heat pump has an acoustic compressor cover as well as the fan blade.
Therefore, it has an efficient and quiet operation, and the fan improves airflow.
The titanium heat exchanger ensures maximum heat transfer.
The body is made of stainless steel, to prevent corrosion and deterioration over time, but is also UV resistant.
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Pros
- Made of high-quality materials
- Titanium heat exchanger
- Round design to fit everywhere
Cons
- Somewhat complex installment
Jake's TakeIf you need a heavy-duty and reliable heat pump, make sure to check this one.
The materials are durable and the heat pump is designed to last through many seasons.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
6
Balboa VS520SZ Dual Pump Controller Kit
The Balboa heat pump is configurable, so you can set two pumps to work on two speeds.
The pump uses specific M& technology, so you can put the heater on the suction or the discharge side of the pump.
The Balboa heat pump has a reasonable price tag and it features a long lifespan.
The installment is simple.
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Pros
- Can be a replacement system for Balboa control units
- Freeze protection
Cons
- No instructions
Jake's TakeIf you know how to read schemes, you will have no issues with installment.
Once you know what to do, the process is simple and the pump is reliable.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
7
Pentair Sta-Rite P6RA6F-206L Max-E-Pro Standard Efficiency Single Speed Up-Rated Pool and Spa Pump,
This Pentair pump is designed to work as a spa or pool pump and features a hydraulic design to improve water moving.
Therefore, operating costs are lower.
The pump has a self-priming suction lift up to 15-feet above water level.
The pump is available in single- and two-speed model.
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Pros
- You get everything you need for assembly
- Saves costs on simple installation
- Long-lasting
Cons
- You might need to do some pipe modifications
Jake's TakeWhat I like about this pump is the quiet operation.
You won’t even be aware that it is working.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
8
Hayward HP21104T HeatPro Titanium 110,000 BTU AHRI Residential Pool Heat Pump
This Hayward heat pump has a small footprint and titanium heat exchanger for improved durability.
The residential pool pump features a power of 110 000 BTU, which makes it an excellent choice for smaller and medium-sized pools.
The vinyl-coated fan guard keeps the pump safe from debris.
The dual thermostat offers a continuous pool temperature display and allows you to easily change the temperature point.
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Pros
- Quiet scroll compressor
- Compact size
- Stainless steel construction
Cons
- High price
Jake's TakeIf you are looking for a long-term residential heat pump, make sure to check this Hayward pump.
It shows excellent performance in medium-sized pools.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
9
Pentair Dynamo 1.5 Horsepower Above Ground Pool Pump
The Pentair heat pump model 340210 has a standard 1.5 inch port for easier above the ground installation.
The pump lid is clear, and the unit features a large strainer basket that prolongs the frequency of cleaning.
It is an energy-efficient device, and because of the fiberglass, you can be sure that it will last for long seasons.
The device provides excellent pressure across a wide range of water flow rates.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Low energy costs
- Suitable for all above ground pool applications
- Quiet
Cons
- Replacement parts hard to find
Jake's TakeThe Pentair heat pump operates at 115V outlet and features energy-efficient operation.
It moves the water with great power as well.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
10
Hayward HP50TA Residential Pool Heat Pump Titanium 50,000 BTU AHRI
This Hayward heat pump model HP50TA is lightweight and easy to handle.
The pump feature 50 000 BTU which makes it suitable for smaller pools and spa.
The Hayward unit is reliable and compact, but also safe from rust, corrosion or any other sight of deterioration.
It has a titanium heat exchanger that provides maximum heat transfer.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Ultra Gold evaporator coil corrosion resistant
- Lightweight
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Can cause low pressure
Jake's TakeThis budget-friendly heat pump is an excellent choice for a home spa.
The performance is soundless and it is designed to last for many years.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
Heat Pumps Buying Guide
If you need to keep the comfortable temperature in your pool for weeks, you are probably in the search for the best heat pump.
Many people pick a heat pump for their pools over pool heaters.
If you are one of those people, keep reading our buying guide and get valuable information on how to choose a suitable heat pump.
We will talk about models, pool size, noise, energy efficiency, etc.
Also, some homeowners go for above-the-ground heat pumps, because they are easier to install and more cost-efficient.
However, that isn’t always the rule.
There are many models on the market and they differ in the performance, costs, and quality.
Non-corrosive units with titanium heat exchangers and energy-efficient performance is always a safe choice.
But, there is more to it.
Let’s start from the beginning.
Heat Pump – How it Works?
Heat pumps are electrical devices that use electricity to produce heat, collect and transfer it.
The air around it doesn’t need to be warm, a pump can work in conditions under 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, when the temperature is higher, the operation is more efficient.
A pool pump has a filter that filtrates the water by drawing it.
Then, a pump with the fan pulls the outside air through the evaporative coil.
The coil contains liquid refrigerant (Freon) to absorb the heat, and warm the air.
After that, using a heat exchanger the water is warmed up to three or five degrees Fahrenheit.
Heat Pumps Types
There are three types of heat pumps, but pool owners usually prefer electrical.
However, let’s briefly explain each type.
Electric
The electric pool heat pumps are cost-efficient and work better for larger pools than electric pool heaters.
They transfer heat from the air into the pool.
The pump needs minimal electricity to operate.
Compared to pool heaters, pumps are more expensive, but in the long run, they can be more efficient.
Also, electric pool heat pumps cost less to operate than gas pumps and can last for more than ten years if you maintain them regularly.
Gas Heater
Gas heaters use propane or natural gas to heat the water.
They are a better choice for pools that aren’t on constant use.
A gas heater can warm the water quickly but it uses lots of gas.
Solar Pool Heat Pumps
A solar system of heating the pool includes solar collector, filter, pump and flow control valve.
It is the most efficient way to warm the pool.
If you have solar panels around your house, you can connect the pool to it with no costs at all.
However, if not, an initial investment for a solar heating system may be higher.
It is an energy-efficient system, and suitable for use year-round.
Pool Heat Pump Features
Now, let’s talk about features you should look for in a heat pump.
Some may tackle the performance, other the output, and some are about costs.
Heat Exchanger
As one of the essential parts of the pump, heat exchanger should be long-lasting and feature non-corrosive construction.
Titanium heat exchangers provide maximum heat transfer and always make an excellent choice.
Efficiency and Energy-Efficiency
Energy-efficient heat pumps will give you maximum results at the lowest costs.
However, the efficiency of the pumps depends on the outside conditions.
As mentioned before, a pump is more efficient when working with warmer air.
The optimal efficiency of the heat pump is when the outside temperature is from 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Compressor
Another essential part of the heat pump is the compressor.
For example, a scroll compressor in heat pumps is a more proficient and better choice.
However, standard heat pumps feature a reciprocal compressor with a medium performance.
Noise Level
Every heat pump makes some noise.
To make sure you are getting the appropriate pump, check the noise output expressed in decibels (dB).
The fan, the blade, and the compressor produce noise.
The noise range of standard heat pumps is between 55 and 58 dB.
For comparison, you can imagine that normal conversation produces noise at 55 dB and some vacuum cleaners make noise up to 70 dB.
To make sure you are getting the pump which won’t disturb you, make sure to check the warranty details and product specifications.
Some pumps may produce more noise when working on a lower temperature, or in a defrost mode.
Pool Size
One of the factors you should consider when buying a heat pump is the size of your pool.
Getting a pump that is too powerful for your pool, may cause malfunction or significantly increase your energy bills.
On the other hand, if you pick a light unit for a large pool area, you won’t be satisfied with the results.
The majority of pumps come with the capacity specification.
The power of the pump is expressed in BTUs.
For example, if you have a rectangular pool not larger than 20 feet, you can get a pump with 80 000 BTUs and get optimal results.
For larger pools, go with at least 100 000 BTUs.
However, always make sure to know the dimensions of your pool and compare them with the product specification.
Heat Pump or Pool Heater?
If you are still not sure which one to get, here is a short comparison of these units.
A heat pump is suitable for large pools, is more cost-efficient and has a longer life span and works excellent no matter if it is on the ground device or not.
Heaters are generally less expensive and have suitable performance, but those are not long-term solutions.
If you have a dilemma on which one to get, just remember that gas pump heats faster, but has higher operating costs.
Installation
If you are looking to save some money, get the pump which you can install by yourself.
Some pumps can be installed in minutes and come with all necessary parts, but others require some professional knowledge.
If you decide to do it by yourself, first check if you have all the necessary parts and follow the instructions.
Conclusion
Pool heat pumps are a common choice for pool owners because of the advantages.
There are gas, electric and solar pool heat pumps.
Electric pumps are the most common choice because of efficiency and excellent results.
Gas pumps heat the water quicker, but raise costs.
Solar pool pumps are an environment-friendly choice that will pay off in the long run but require a high initial investment.
Even though the pool heater may come as a more affordable option, a pump is a more durable and reliable choice for larger pools.
When getting a heat pump, make sure to get a pump with appropriate power for your pool.
Other important factors to consider when getting a heat pump is the quality of a heat exchanger, ease of installation, noise output, etc.
What's your take on Heat Pumps? You think they're just a luxury or a must-have item? Don't hesitate to share your comment below with your opinion!
