HEAT PUMPS
Bringing The Heat In 2026 The heating of water within pools and spas of all sizes can be achieved in a variety of ways, but heat pumps are the go-to choice for many due to their economic operation and environmentally friendly credentials. There’s plenty of options available too with numerous manufacturers providing these energy efficient solutions. With new or improved models joining some existing favourites for 2026, we take a closer look at what’s hot in the sector By Jon Wadeson
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or many wet leisure installations across the country, heat pumps have long been seen as the ideal solution to heating water efficiently. For some outdoor projects, that will also mean extending the regularly seen short pool seasons found here in the UK too. With models producing many times more energy than they consume, heat pumps effortlessly outperform many other types of heating methods – so it’s easy to see why they’ve been such a popular choice for both owners and installers alike. Over recent years, models have become increasingly sophisticated and intelligent in their operation, resulting in higher performance ratings leading to impressive energy savings. The majority of marketleading designs now feature some form of inverter technology and most can now also be controlled and monitored remotely via smart device apps too. As the technology improves, so too has their performance, cost savings, eco-friendly credentials, flexibility, ease of use and even their looks – in short, it’s a winning combination of factors that are hard to ignore – something which has only further added to their appeal! With various brands, models and options available from a range of manufacturers and suppliers, there’s a perfect heat pump solution on offer for virtually any pool or spa configuration. So, with options aplenty on offer, in this issue, we take a closer look at just some of the models that are bringing the heat for this season and beyond.
THE POOLEX NANO – AN IDEAL SOLUTION FOR SMALLER POOLS Available through AES, the Poolex Nano is a compact and reversible heat pump, designed to heat or cool pools up to 30m³. Thanks to its heating/cooling mode, it maintains the ideal water temperature throughout the spring, summer or autumn seasons. In summer, the cooling function is ideal to prevent overheating in sun-exposed pools and to protect liners and other surfaces. During the off-season or in spring, it efficiently raises water temperature, starting
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The Poolex Nano is a compact and reversible heat pump, designed to heat or cool pools up to 30m³
from as low as 10°C outdoor air temperature. With a COP of 5.4, owners get over five times the heat output for every pound spent on electricity. Easy to install with its Plug & Play system, it simply connects to a standard outlet and is suitable for a variety of small pools – aboveground, wooden or in-ground. Compatible with saltwater treatments and equipped with a corrosion-resistant titanium heat exchanger and standard 32/38mm connections, it easily integrates into most existing setups and ensures long-lasting, worry-free operation. Quiet (<30 dB at 10m) and discreet, the Poolex Nano fits into small spaces without disrupting the sound or visual environment. Its compact size (under 40cm in height) makes it perfect for small gardens, patios or tight areas. Equipped with an integrated Wi-Fi module, it can be easily controlled remotely via the Poolex app (available on iOS and Android). This simple, intuitive interface allows users to remotely start/stop the Nano, adjust the temperature, choose modes (heating, cooling, automatic) and view performance from their smartphone for easier use and simplified daily maintenance – easy, efficient control anytime.
a compact design. One of the standout features of the Z550iQ is its compact footprint and vertical airflow design, allowing it to fit into the smallest of spaces – requiring half the space of standard heat pumps. Its anti-corrosion polypropylene housing ensures durability, even in the UK’s variable climate. The unit operates quietly, thanks to its full Inverter technology and Heatselect modes: Boost for rapid heating, Smart for automatic power adjustment, and Ecosilence for energysaving, low-noise operation. This versatility allows users to balance performance and efficiency according to their needs. The Z550iQ integrates seamlessly with the Fluidra Pool app, enabling remote control and monitoring via smartphone or tablet. This feature allows users to adjust settings and monitor performance from anywhere, enhancing convenience and control. Also, once connected, the Z550iQ benefits from continuous improvements thanks to remote automatic updates. Designed for pools up to 110m³, the Z550iQ is suitable for various pool types, including in-ground, semi-in-ground and above-ground installations. Its
A SMART, EFFICIENT AND COMPACT SOLUTION FROM ASTRALPOOL The Zodiac Z550iQ heat pump exemplifies modern pool heating technology, combining energy efficiency, intelligent connectivity and
Available through AstralPool UK, the Zodiac Z550iQ heat pump exemplifies modern pool heating technology
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