Can you add a heat pump to an existing pool?
Already have a pool? You can add a heat pump to it. Here is how it connects, the power it needs, and how to size it.
Key Takeaways
- Yes, a heat pump can be added to an existing pool. It connects to your pool's existing circulation and plumbing
- It runs on standard single-phase power, so most homes need no three-phase upgrade or gas line
- Match the unit to your pool volume, and our Melbourne team handles delivery and installation
If a pool is already in the ground and the owner wants warm water without rebuilding anything, the answer is simple. Yes, you can add a heat pump to an existing pool. It is one of the most straightforward upgrades there is. It turns a pool used for a few months a year into one that is swimmable in every season.
The short answer
A heat pump connects into the pool's existing circulation, so there is no need to rebuild the pool. Most homes already have the power it needs, because the CHR AstroMax W17, C24 and H35 Turbo run on standard single phase power. Size the unit to the pool's volume, choose a spot with clear airflow and it is ready to heat.
How it connects
Pool water is already pumped out, through the filter and back into the pool. A heat pump connects into that circulation and warms the water as it passes through. Nothing about the pool itself needs to be rebuilt.
What power it needs
The AstroMax W17, C24 and H35 Turbo all run on single phase power, the ordinary supply almost every home already has. The 35kW H35 Turbo is Australia's most powerful single phase heat pump and covers pools up to 60,000L, with no three phase upgrade and no gas line to run. If the property already has three phase power, the 35T and R40 are built for it. A licensed electrician confirms the circuit for the unit you choose.
Sizing it to the pool
The main thing to get right is size. A heat pump is matched to the pool's volume, so the output suits the amount of water being heated.
| Model | Output | Power | Suits pools up to |
|---|---|---|---|
| AstroMax W17 | 17kW | Single phase | 20,000L |
| AstroMax C24 | 24kW | Single phase | 30,000L |
| AstroMax H35 Turbo | 35kW | Single phase | 60,000L |
| AstroMax 35T | 35kW | Three phase | 60,000L |
| AstroMax R40 | 40kW | Three phase | 80,000L |
Our guide to choosing your pool heating walks through sizing in more detail.
Where it goes
The unit sits at ground level and needs clear space around it for airflow. CHR units fit in 450mm, which matters on established homes where the space beside the house is often tight. Pool heat pump installation and placement covers positioning in full.
What it costs to run
A heat pump moves heat rather than making it, which keeps running costs low. The CHR AstroMax range delivers a COP of up to 20. The 35kW H35 Turbo runs at around $3 a day. CHR AstroMax units have Wi-Fi control, so the temperature can be set and scheduled from the app. See are pool heat pumps expensive to run? for the full picture.
Delivery, warranty and service
We deliver every unit direct to site with our own team, not a courier. Every AstroMax is backed by a 5 year parts, 15 year compressor and 25 year heat exchanger warranty and a 48 hour on-site service guarantee.
For pool builders
Adding a heat pump to an existing pool is a natural add-on for renovation and upgrade work. Approved trade accounts get trade pricing, installation training and free storage for 2 months on trade orders, so the unit is ready when the job is.
Common questions
Do I need three phase power to add a heat pump?
No. The CHR AstroMax W17, C24 and H35 Turbo run on single phase power and cover pools up to 60,000L.
Do I need a gas connection?
No. A heat pump runs on electricity and draws warmth from the air, so there is no gas line to run.
Will adding a heat pump change my pool?
No. It connects into the pool's existing circulation, so the pool itself stays as it is.
What size heat pump does my pool need?
It depends on the pool's volume. Use the table above as a guide, or read our guide to choosing your pool heating.
Ready to add year-round heating to an existing pool? Get in touch with our team.
Ready for year-round swimming?
Speak to our team about heating your pool. We'll help you choose the right unit for effortless, year-round comfort.