If you have decided to install a pool heat pump you are probably wondering where is the best place to place it. Does a pool heat pump need to be in the sun, or could it be in a cold place?
In this article, we’ll look at whether or not it is necessary for a pool heat pump to be in the sun, and where a pool heat pump should be located.
The ideal location for a pool heat pump
When it comes to choosing the best location for your pool heat pump, there are four main factors you should consider:
1. Airflow
Heat pumps are dependent on airflow to be able to operate, and a pool heat pump is no different than an air-source heat pump. Always consider locating your heat pump in a spot that has plenty of natural airflows. This will allow the heat pump to spend less energy pulling the air, and it can also help it be more efficient.
2. Vegetation
Vegetation can block the entrance of air into the pool heat pump, therefore it should also be considered when you are choosing the best place for your pool heat pump. Avoid a location that has a lot of surrounding vegetation because this will prevent the air from naturally flowing into the pool heat pump. Always consider trimming the vegetation of the surrounding area where you want to install your pool heat pump.
3. Shelter
Another factor to consider is shelter because you want to make sure that your pool heat pump is protected, either from extreme winds or water.
In some cases due to the way your outdoor space is arranged, it might be difficult to choose a location that provides shelter to your pool heat pump, but be aware when trying to find a solution for this problem.
Should I cover my pool heat pump?
When you cannot choose a location that provides sufficient shelter for your pool heat pump, some people wonder if you can cover the pool heat pump. While it is possible to cover it, it is usually something the professionals advise against.
The main reason is that most pool heat pumps are designed to work without any cover. Additionally, covering a pool heat pump might block the airflow into the system, which could make it less efficient, and increase the cost of running it.
4. Power outlet
A simple aspect that should also be considered but is often forgotten is the power outlet. You need to make sure that your pool heat pump is located close to a power outlet, in order to be operational. You also want to avoid having several electrical cables running in your yard, or outdoor space, and therefore keeping your pool heat pump close to the power outlet is crucial.
5. Sunlight
Lastly, you should also consider sunlight exposure when deciding the best location for your pool heat pump.
Should a pool heat pump be in the sun?
While there might be a slight benefit for your pool heat pump to be in a location where it gets plenty of sunlight, most pool heat pump models will be able to work correctly even if they are located in a shade.
While it is ideal to place your pool heat pump in a sunny location, due to the constraints of your outdoor area you may not be able to place it in the sun.
Can pool heat pumps be in shade?
Yes, a pool heat pump may be located in a shaded area. Pool heat pumps are designed to work in different climate conditions, even if there is no sun. While being located in a sunny area can help to increase its efficiency, a heat pump can still operate in the shade. For this reason, you need to be aware that if you choose to place your pool heat pump in a shaded area its efficiency might not be optimal.
Conclusion
We have seen the importance of placing your pool heater in a location that gets plenty of sunlight exposure, so it can be more efficient. At the same time, you should also consider some of the other important factors when deciding the perfect location for your pool heat pump, to make sure it works as efficiently as possible.
Read More:
Heat Pump Location: Are Heat Pumps Inside or Outside?
