What’s the Difference Between Standard & Inverter Heat Pumps for Your Pool?

Seeking a cost-effective way to heat your pool? An inverter heat pump might just be the ideal solution, keeping your pool warm and running costs down. Inverter heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their numerous benefits. 

But how do they differ from regular on/off heat pumps? We consider their differences and why you might want to invest in one over the other. 

Swimming pool heat pumps: costs and options

What is an Inverter Heat Pump? 

Inverter heat pumps offer an affordable and more eco-friendly method for heating your pool. While on/off heat pumps have been the standard previously, the past decade has seen inverter technology applied to pool heat pumps, providing a range of benefits. 

Inverter heat pumps differ from other models in that they can run the compressor at variable speeds. This essentially means the pump is able to adjust its heat output to meet the temperature requirements more accurately and consistently. 

On/Off Heat Pumps Vs Inverter Heat Pumps

Inverter and on/off pumps work in similar ways, drawing heat from ambient air to heat pool water. They are made up of the same basic components: 

  • Evaporator
  • Heat exchanger
  • Compressor

The biggest difference between the two is how the compressor works. 

Fixed output heat pumps can either be on or off. When they’re on, they function at 100% capacity, working to heat your water, then turning off once it has been reached and cycling between being on and off to maintain the desired temperature. 

On the other hand, inverter heat pumps moderate their output, increasing and decreasing power by 25-50% to continue matching the desired water temperature. When demand is low, output is reduced without being turned completely off. 

Someone enjoying warm swimming pool water

The Benefits of Inverter Heat Pumps? 

The variable nature of inverter pool heat pumps means they can offer several great benefits, making them the preferable choice to other pool heating methods.

  • Low start-up current: Inverter pumps power up slowly, using less energy to get started.
  • Increased energy efficiency: Both inverter and standard heat pumps are more efficient than gas or electric pool heaters. They have a higher coefficient of performance, which means for every 1kW of energy you put in, you get far more kW worth of heat out.
  • More cost-effective: This increased efficiency means you have to use less power, therefore spending less getting your pool properly heated.
  • More eco-friendly: Inverter heat pumps use a bit of electrical energy, helping reduce your overall energy consumption and impact on the environment.
  • Reduced noise levels: These units can also be quieter than their fixed output counterpart, with many having effective silent settings.
  • Long-lasting: As they don’t have to cycle between on and off settings, these pumps may experience less strain, offering a durable unit that’ll last for many years to come. 

Why Choose an On/Off Pool Heat Pump? 

So, there are lots of reasons why you might want to pick an inverter heat pump, but are there any reasons why a standard on/off heat pump would suit you better?

Fixed-output heat pumps have many of the benefits we’ve described above, so they are by no means a bad choice for your pool. They can also be significantly cheaper than inverter heat pumps, offering an easy and convenient way to make the switch from less efficient pool heaters. 

This being said, inverter heat pumps can help you save more money over time, so you may find that the higher initial cost is worth it.

What size swimming pool heat pump do I need?

What is the Best Heat Pump For My Pool? 

Here at 1st Direct Pools, we stock a great range of inverter and on/off heat pumps to ensure you can find the perfect fit for your pool. Your choice will come down to a couple of things: 

  • The size of your pool.
  • How often it’s used.
  • The climate.
  • Your budget. 

Our Aqua inverter heat pumps are among some of our most premium options, offering a range of great features that enhance your swimming pool setup. 

To find out which heat pumps we recommend, check out our blog on the best swimming pool heat pumps.  

Whichever heat pump you decide is best for you, our knowledgeable team is on-hand to answer any questions you may have about a particular product. You can get in touch on 0333 900 4040. 

If you require anything else to keep your pool in pristine condition, we stock all the best pool chemicals and supplies to keep you on track!