Keeping your swimming pool warm doesn’t have to drive your power bill sky-high. A few smart changes to how you run your system can make a big difference.
Here are some simple steps you can take to save on pool heating without compromising comfort.
Invest in the right heat pump
Not all heat pumps are the same. A high-efficiency model tailored to your pool’s size and use will heat faster and use less energy doing it. If your current system is ageing or struggling, it might be time to look into an upgrade - one that’ll pay for itself in lower running costs over time.
Click here to get a personal estimate based on your pool's specs.
Use a pool cover
Evaporation is the number-one culprit for heat loss in pools - and the more heat you lose, the harder your system works.
A good quality pool cover can reduce evaporation by up to 95%, keeping more warmth in (and debris out). Plus, it can increase your water temperature by 4-8 degrees. All in all, that means fewer top-ups, less chemical usage and, most importantly, less time spent running your heater.
If rolling it out daily sounds like a hassle, consider upgrading to an automatic pool cover.
Block the breeze
Wind increases evaporation by creating ripples, whisking away the warm air above the water’s surface. So, how can you keep evaporation - and heat loss - to a minimum?
Strategic landscaping (think edges, screens or fences) can act as natural windbreaks, helping your pool stay warmer for longer. Just make sure windbreaks are high enough to block the breeze but don’t shade the pool from the sun.
Time your heating right
Pool heat pumps work by pulling warmth from the air, so they run more efficiently during the warmest part of the day (usually noon or early afternoon). If your heater is on a timer, set it to run when the sun is strongest. You’ll get more heat for less energy and your pool will hold that warmth longer into the evening.
Consider a pool blanket
A pool blanket is one of the easiest tools for slashing heating costs. It traps warmth in your pool, reducing heat loss overnight and minimising evaporation.
At HPPS, we offer two options: a thermal blanket, which insulates the pool to retain heat without relying on sunlight, and a solar blanket, which uses the sun’s free energy to warm the water during the day while also providing insulation.
Not sure which one’s right for you? Our team can help you choose the best option based on your usage and climate.
Lower the temperature a notch
As a rule of thumb, the ideal swimming temperature is around 27-29°C - warm enough to be comfortable without overworking your system. Is your pool’s water temp higher than that?
Even lowering your target temperature by just 1 or 2 degrees can trim your power bill by up to 10-30%. If you only swim on weekends, you may reduce the temperature during the week and turn it back up Friday evening.
That said, make sure you don’t let your pool temperature fluctuate too much. It takes more energy to reheat water from a lower baseline than it does to keep a steady, comfortable temperature. Aim for gradual adjustments rather than dramatic swings.
Turn off the heater in winter
Not using your pool during the colder months? There’s no point in heating water you’re not swimming in, so consider switching off your heat pump entirely. It will help you save money and energy.
If you’d like more tips on how to prepare your pool for winter, check out our article here.
Stay on top of maintenance
Clean filters, efficient circulation and a well-maintained heating system all contribute to better performance. A neglected heat pump can cost you more in the long run - both in energy usage and avoidable repairs.
Need advice or a quick maintenance check?
We’re here to help. Whether you want to book a service, ask about accessories or upgrade your setup - give us a call on 0800 280 840 or contact us online.