🔥 Bowman EC80-5113-1C Heat Exchanger – 68,000 BTU (20kW) Cupro-Nickel

🌡️ Compact, High-Performance Pool Heating for Spas, Hot Tubs & Domestic Pools Up to 40m³

📋 Product Overview

The Bowman EC80-5113-1C is a premium compact shell and tube heat exchanger engineered specifically for spas, hot tubs, and domestic swimming pools up to 40m³ (8,800 gallons). Built by Bowman – the acknowledged brand leader with over 60 years of swimming pool heat exchanger manufacturing experience – this cupro-nickel model delivers exceptional heat transfer performance combined with outstanding durability.

Featuring Bowman’s innovative ‘Universal Fit’ composite end covers, the EC80-5113-1C accommodates both 1½” nominal pipe size (48mm O/D) and metric 50mm O/D pool pipework, ensuring seamless compatibility with most existing pool systems. The cupro-nickel tube core provides excellent corrosion resistance for chlorinated freshwater pools, making it an ideal choice for demanding domestic and light commercial pool heating applications. With a 68,000 BTU (20kW) output capacity when connected to an 82°C boiler, this heat exchanger provides rapid, efficient pool heating while maintaining energy efficiency.

⭐ Key Features

✅ 68,000 BTU (20kW) Heat Output – High-capacity heat transfer with 82°C boiler water for rapid pool heating

✅ Premium Cupro-Nickel Tube Core – Superior corrosion resistance for chlorinated freshwater pools

✅ ‘Universal Fit’ Composite End Covers – Accommodates both 1½” NPS (48mm O/D) and metric 50mm O/D pool pipework

✅ Compact & Lightweight Design – Just 3kg dry weight with 370mm overall length for flexible installation

✅ Integral 7mm Thermostat Pocket – Built-in pocket on inlet end for accurate pool water temperature monitoring

✅ Solvent Weld Pool Connections – Easy installation directly into pool pipework without threading

✅ Vertical or Horizontal Mounting – Flexible positioning options to suit any plant room layout

✅ Easy Maintenance Access – Removable end covers and tube stack for straightforward cleaning and inspection

✅ British Manufacturing Quality – Designed and built by Bowman in Birmingham, UK – 100 years of heat transfer technology

✅ 12 Month Warranty – Guaranteed against manufacturing faults

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Model Number	EC80-5113-1C
Heat Output (82°C Boiler Water)	68,000 BTU/hr (20 kW)
Heat Output (60°C Boiler Water)	41,000 BTU/hr (12 kW)
Shell Material	Corrosion-resistant composite
Tube Material	Cupro-Nickel
Maximum Pool Volume	40m³ (8,800 gallons)
Boiler/Primary Flow Rate	2.1 m³/h (35 l/min)
Maximum Pool Water Flow	9.0 m³/h (150 l/min)
Max Operating Pressure (Both Sides)	6 bar (87 psi)
Max Operating Temperature (Heating Side)	110°C (230°F)
Max Operating Temperature (Pool Side)	100°C (212°F)
Connections (Pool Water)	Solvent Weld Ø48/Ø50mm (DN40 Pipe)
Connections (Boiler Water)	¾” BSP Threaded
Overall Length	370mm
Mounting Hole Centres	60mm
Mounting Hole Size	Ø7mm
Thermostat Pocket	Ø7 x 40mm (Inlet end only)
Weight (Dry)	3.0 kg

📊 Heat Transfer Performance

The EC80-5113-1C delivers impressive heat transfer rates that vary based on boiler water temperature and flow rate. The table below shows verified performance data from manufacturer testing:

🔥 Heat Transfer Rates at Various Temperatures

Flow Rate (l/min)	82°C Boiler	70°C Boiler	60°C Boiler	45°C Source
10	13 kW	10 kW	7 kW	4 kW
20	18 kW	13 kW	10 kW	5 kW
30	21 kW	16 kW	12 kW	6 kW
40	23 kW	17 kW	13 kW	7 kW
50	24 kW	19 kW	14 kW	7 kW
60	26 kW	20 kW	15 kW	8 kW

Performance data based on achieving a pool water temperature of 30°C. Source: Bowman Manufacturer Documentation.

🏊 Pool Heating Performance Summary

• Maximum Heat Output: 68,000 BTU/hr (20 kW) with 82°C boiler water
• Suitable for Pools Up to: 40m³ (8,800 gallons)
• Optimal Primary Flow Rate: 35 l/min (2.1 m³/h)

⚡ Efficiency Factors

• Higher boiler water temperatures deliver greater heat transfer
• Maintaining optimal flow rates ensures maximum efficiency
• Counter-flow installation is essential for best performance
• Proper sizing to pool volume prevents system inefficiency

⏱️ Heat-Up Times & Temperature Maintenance

⚠️ Heat-up times vary based on multiple factors including:

• Heat source output (boiler kW rating)
• Starting water temperature
• Desired pool temperature
• Ambient/outdoor temperature
• Pool cover usage and insulation
• Weather conditions and heat losses

The EC80-5113-1C is a passive heat transfer device – actual heating times depend entirely on your heat source capacity and installation conditions.

📐 Sizing Guidance

The manufacturer rates this heat exchanger for pools up to 40m³ (8,800 gallons). This rating is based on:

• Boiler water temperature of 82°C
• Pool water target temperature of 30°C
• Optimal flow rates being maintained

🛡️ Material & Compatibility Guide

Cupro-Nickel Construction – What It Means For You

The EC80-5113-1C features a cupro-nickel tube stack, offering an excellent balance of heat transfer efficiency, corrosion resistance, and value. Cupro-nickel is a copper-nickel alloy specifically chosen for its performance in chlorinated pool water environments.

✅ Recommended For:

✅ Chlorinated freshwater swimming pools

✅ Freshwater hot tubs and spas

✅ Domestic pool installations up to 40m³

✅ Bromine-treated pools (within limits)

✅ Boiler-fed heating systems

❌ NOT Suitable For:

❌ Salt water pools

❌ Salt water chlorinator systems

❌ High-chloride water sources

❌ Saline spa installations

⚠️ Important: For salt water or salt chlorinator applications, please consider Bowman’s Titanium models which offer complete resistance to chloride attack and carry a 10-year guarantee on titanium material.

💧 Recommended Water Chemistry Limits (Cupro-Nickel)

Parameter	Recommended Range
Free Chlorine	1.0 – 3.0 ppm
pH Level	7.2 – 7.8
Calcium Hardness	200 – 400 ppm
Total Alkalinity	100 – 150 ppm
Bromine	2.0 – 4.0 ppm
Chloride Content	Less than 150 ppm

Source: Bowman Installation, Operation & Maintenance Guide

🎯 Applications & Use Cases

The Bowman EC80-5113-1C is designed for a range of pool and spa heating applications:

🛁 Hot Tubs & Spas – Ideal compact size for spa heating with rapid heat-up capability

🏊‍♂️ Domestic Swimming Pools – Suitable for residential pools up to 40m³ (8,800 gallons)

🔥 Boiler Integration – Designed for connection to gas, oil, or LPG boilers via ¾” BSP connections

☀️ Solar Thermal Systems – Compatible with solar panel heating (refer to performance table for lower temperature outputs)

🌡️ Heat Pump Integration – Can be used with heat pump systems (performance varies with source temperature)

💨 Biomass Boiler Systems – Suitable for connection to wood pellet and biomass heating systems

Heat Source Compatibility

This heat exchanger is approved by Bowman for use with:

• Conventional boilers (gas, oil, LPG)
• Solar thermal systems
• Heat pump systems
• Biomass boilers

Any other use unless agreed by Bowman is not approved.

🔨 Installation Considerations

Mounting Options

The EC80-5113-1C can be installed in either horizontal or vertical orientation, providing flexibility for various plant room configurations.

Key Installation Requirements

✅ Install in a frost-free, dry location with non-aggressive atmosphere

✅ Ensure easy access for assembly, disassembly, and maintenance

✅ Install downstream of pumping and filtration equipment

✅ Use counter-flow installation – pool water must flow in opposite direction to heating water for optimal performance

✅ Install chemical dosing systems downstream of the heat exchanger with a non-return valve

✅ Position thermostat on the pool water inlet to the heat exchanger for accurate temperature monitoring

✅ Boiler/solar water circuit must be pump assisted with appropriate measures to prevent air locks

✅ Add inhibitor to boiler circuit to protect against corrosion

‘Universal Fit’ End Cover Installation

The EC80 features universal fit end covers designed for both imperial and metric pipe:

• Metric 50mm (DN40) pipe: 28mm deep recess
• Imperial 1½” NPS pipe: 56mm deep recess – ensure sufficient pipe length engages the full recess for watertight seal

⚠️ Important Warnings

⚠️ Maximum working pressure must not exceed 6 bar on either side

⚠️ Heating water connections may reach temperatures up to 110°C

⚠️ Never allow plastic pipework to be exposed to excessive temperature when no pool water is flowing

⚠️ Chemicals and gases must be prevented from entering the heat exchanger when filtration is not running

Professional installation is strongly recommended to ensure warranty compliance and optimal performance.

📥 Downloads & Resources

 Swimming Pool Heat Exchanger Brochure – Complete product range specifications and performance data (PDF)

 Installation, Operation & Maintenance Guide – Full technical installation instructions and maintenance procedures (PDF)

🏆 Why Choose Bowman Heat Exchangers

✅ 100 Years of Heat Transfer Technology – Bowman has been at the forefront of heat exchanger innovation for a century

✅ 60+ Years in Pool Heating – Acknowledged as the brand leader in swimming pool heat exchangers worldwide

✅ British Manufacturing Excellence – Designed and manufactured in Birmingham, UK to the highest quality standards

✅ Proven Global Performance – Tens of thousands of units operating reliably from domestic spas to Olympic pools

✅ Superior Tube Density – More heat transfer tubes than most competitors for up to 3x faster heating

✅ 12 Month Manufacturing Warranty – All Bowman swimming pool heat exchangers guaranteed against manufacturing faults

✅ Comprehensive Spare Parts Availability – Full range of replacement parts for long-term serviceability

🛒 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

✅ UK Pool & Spa Specialists – Dedicated expertise in pool and hot tub heating equipment

✅ Technical Support – Expert advice to help you select the right heat exchanger for your application

✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value on genuine Bowman products

✅ Fast UK Delivery – Quick dispatch to get your project moving

✅ After-Sales Support – Ongoing assistance and access to spare parts

✅ Trusted Supplier – Established retailer of quality pool and spa equipment

✨ Summary

The Bowman EC80-5113-1C is a compact, high-performance cupro-nickel heat exchanger delivering 68,000 BTU (20kW) of heat transfer capacity for pools up to 40m³. Featuring Bowman’s innovative Universal Fit end covers, premium cupro-nickel construction, and integral thermostat pocket, this unit combines British manufacturing quality with easy installation and reliable performance. Ideal for domestic pools, spas, and hot tubs using freshwater chlorination – backed by Bowman’s industry-leading reputation and 12-month warranty.