🌊 I-PAC PRO 16A Side-Outlet Inverter Heat Pump – Single Phase All-Year Pool Heating & Cooling
Transform your swimming pool into a year-round oasis with the I-PAC PRO 16A, a cutting-edge inverter heat pump designed for homeowners who demand exceptional performance, whisper-quiet operation, and intelligent energy efficiency. Whether you’re heating your pool in the depths of winter or cooling it during summer heatwaves, this advanced heat pump delivers consistent comfort with remarkable cost savings.
The I-PAC PRO 16A represents the next generation of pool heating technology. Unlike traditional on/off heat pumps that waste energy cycling between full power and standby, inverter technology continuously adjusts the compressor speed to match your pool’s exact heating needs. This intelligent approach reduces energy consumption by up to 30% while maintaining your perfect pool temperature with precision.
Perfect for:
- Medium to large residential pools (up to 75m² surface area for seasonal use)
- Year-round swimming enthusiasts in cold climates
- Noise-sensitive neighborhoods and residential areas
- Installations requiring compact side-outlet plumbing
- Pool owners seeking app-based smart control and remote monitoring
🏆 Key Benefits at a Glance
✅ Maximum Heating Power: Up to 22.5kW output (Turbo mode at 27°C air/water)
✅ Extreme Climate Performance: Operates in temperatures from -20°C to +43°C
✅ Ultra-Quiet Operation: Just 18.8 dB(A) at 10 meters – quieter than a whisper
✅ Exceptional Efficiency: COP up to 20.4 in optimal conditions (15.2 average at 50% speed)
✅ Smart Wi-Fi Control: Monitor and adjust settings from anywhere via the Pooltherm App
✅ Eco-Friendly R32 Refrigerant: Low Global Warming Potential for environmental responsibility
✅ Dual Functionality: Heating and cooling modes for complete temperature control
✅ Compact Side-Outlet Design: Space-saving installation perfect for tight locations
💡 Outstanding Features That Set the I-PAC PRO 16A Apart
Inverter Technology: The Smart Way to Heat Your Pool
Traditional heat pumps operate like a light switch – they’re either fully on or completely off. The I-PAC PRO 16A uses advanced DC inverter technology that works more like a dimmer switch, continuously modulating power from 20% to 100% of capacity. This means:
- Lower running costs – Uses only the power needed to maintain temperature
- Faster heating – Ramps up to maximum power when needed
- Quieter operation – Reduced fan and compressor speeds during steady-state
- Extended lifespan – Less wear on components from constant cycling
- More stable water temperature – No temperature fluctuations
Three Operating Modes for Every Situation
Choose the perfect balance between performance, efficiency, and noise level:
🚀 Turbo Mode – Maximum heating capacity (100% to 20%)
Ideal for initial pool heat-up or when you need rapid temperature increases. Delivers the full 22.5kW heating power in optimal conditions.
⚡ Perfect Mode – Intelligent automatic optimization (80% to 20%)
The smart choice for everyday use. Automatically adjusts based on ambient air and water temperatures to maximize efficiency while maintaining comfort. This mode delivers a remarkable average COP of 15.2 at 50% speed.
🔇 Silence Mode – Ultra-quiet operation (50% to 20%)
Perfect for noise-sensitive times like evenings or early mornings. Reduces sound output by approximately 5 dB(A) while still providing effective heating.
All-Weather, All-Year Capability
Unlike conventional heat pumps that struggle or stop working in cold weather, the I-PAC PRO 16A is engineered for extreme temperature operation:
- Heating Range: Functions down to -20°C air temperature
- Cooling Range: Operates in ambient temperatures up to +43°C
- Automatic Defrost: Smart reverse-cycle defrosting prevents ice build-up
- Winter-Ready: Includes thermal winter cover for protection during off-season
Real Performance Data:
- At 15°C air / 26°C water: Delivers 15kW heating with COP of 5.3 to 9.0
- At 27°C air / 27°C water: Delivers 22.5kW heating with COP of 7.3 to 20.4
- At 35°C air / 28°C water: Delivers 11.9kW cooling capacity
Premium Build Quality & Durability
Titanium Heat Exchanger
The heart of the I-PAC PRO 16A features a high-efficiency twisted titanium condenser that’s virtually indestructible. Titanium is completely resistant to corrosion from chlorine, salt, and harsh pool chemicals, ensuring decades of reliable performance.
Weatherproof Aluminum Alloy Cabinet
The robust enclosure protects all internal components from the elements while the compact side-outlet design (1195 × 427 × 760 mm) makes installation easier in confined spaces.
Electronic Expansion Valve (EEV)
Precise refrigerant control optimizes efficiency across all operating conditions and temperatures.
📄 Downloads & Technical Documentation
Access comprehensive installation guides, technical specifications, and product information to help you make an informed decision and ensure proper installation:
📄 I-PAC PRO Installation Manual (opens in new tab)
Complete 50-page owner and installation manual covering setup, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical specifications. Essential reading for installers and pool owners.
📄 I-PAC PRO Product Brochure (opens in new tab)
Detailed product overview with sizing charts, dimensional drawings, full technical specifications, and performance data for all I-PAC PRO models.
📱 Smart Control & Connectivity
Touchscreen Control Panel
The intuitive built-in touchscreen displays real-time operational data at a glance:
- Current water inlet and outlet temperatures
- Real-time power consumption or compressor speed percentage
- Active operating mode (Heat/Cool/Auto and Turbo/Perfect/Silence)
- Wi-Fi connection status
- Fault and protection codes for easy troubleshooting
- Screen lock function to prevent accidental changes
Wi-Fi Remote Control via Pooltherm App
Take control of your pool heating from anywhere in the world. The built-in Wi-Fi module connects to the free Pooltherm App (available for Android and iOS):
Remote Features:
- Check current pool temperature from your phone
- Adjust target temperature before you arrive home
- Switch between heating and cooling modes
- Select Turbo, Perfect, or Silence modes
- Set timer schedules for energy savings
- Monitor energy consumption in real-time
- Receive fault notifications and alerts
- Over-the-air firmware updates for future enhancements
Optional Wired Remote Control Panel
For installations where the heat pump is located away from convenient viewing (such as inside a plant room or behind equipment), an optional 10-meter wired remote control panel is available. This allows full control and monitoring from a more accessible location.
🔧 Complete Technical Specifications
Performance Specifications
| Operating Condition | Turbo Mode Output | Perfect Mode Output | COP Range (Perfect) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27°C Air / 27°C Water / 80% RH | 22.5 kW | 18.0 kW | 7.3 – 20.4 |
| 15°C Air / 26°C Water / 70% RH | 15.0 kW | 12.0 kW | 5.3 – 9.0 |
| 5°C Air / 10°C Water | 14.9 kW | — | — |
| -10°C Air / 23°C Water | 8.2 kW | — | — |
| 35°C Air / 28°C Water (Cooling) | — | 11.9 kW | — |
COP (Coefficient of Performance) represents the ratio of heating output to electrical input. Higher COP = greater efficiency.
Electrical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | 230V Single Phase 50Hz |
| Rated Input Power | 0.34 – 2.83 kW |
| Rated Input Current | 1.48 – 12.30 A |
| Maximum Input Current | Approx. 18.5 A |
| Recommended Fuse/MCB | Type C, 25A |
| RCD Protection | Type F, 30mA |
Physical & Installation Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Unit Dimensions (W × D × H) | 1,195 × 427 × 760 mm |
| Net Weight | 82 kg |
| Water Flow Requirement | 6 – 9 m³/h |
| Water Connections | 50mm or 48.3mm female unions |
| Noise Level at 10 meters | 18.8 – 28.5 dB(A) |
| Maximum Air Flow | 5,600 m³/h |
| Operating Air Temperature | -20°C to +43°C |
| Water Temperature Range (Heating) | 18°C to 40°C |
| Water Temperature Range (Cooling) | 12°C to 30°C |
Refrigeration System
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Refrigerant Type | R32 (Low GWP) |
| Refrigerant Charge | 1.7 kg |
| CO₂ Equivalent | 1.148 tons |
| Heat Exchanger | Twisted titanium coil |
| Compressor Type | DC inverter twin rotary |
| Fan Motor | DC brushless |
🏊 Pool Sizing & Heat-Up Time Estimates
Recommended Pool Size Coverage
The I-PAC PRO 16A is ideally suited for the following pool sizes:
March – November Season (38-40 Weeks):
- Up to 75m² surface area at 28°C target temperature
- Up to 85m² surface area at 27°C target temperature
- Up to 95m² surface area at 26°C target temperature
All-Year Round Heating:
- Up to 55m² surface area at 28°C target temperature
- Up to 65m² surface area at 27°C target temperature
- Up to 70m² surface area at 26°C target temperature
Based on in-ground pools with 1.3m average depth, insulated heat retention cover used 20+ hours per day, and sheltered location.
Estimated Heat-Up Times
Understanding how quickly your pool will heat helps you plan usage and manage expectations. The following table shows estimated time to raise your pool temperature using the I-PAC PRO 16A:
Formula Used: Time (hours) = (Pool Volume in m³ × Temperature Rise in °C × 1.16) ÷ Heat Pump kW Rating
| Pool Volume | From 15°C to 25°C (10°C rise) | From 18°C to 28°C (10°C rise) | From 20°C to 28°C (8°C rise) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30m³ (30,000L) | 23 hours | 19 hours | 15 hours |
| 40m³ (40,000L) | 31 hours | 25 hours | 20 hours |
| 50m³ (50,000L) | 39 hours | 31 hours | 25 hours |
| 60m³ (60,000L) | 46 hours | 37 hours | 30 hours |
| 75m³ (75,000L) | 58 hours | 47 hours | 37 hours |
⚠ Important Notes on Heat-Up Estimates:
These are theoretical estimates based on the heat pump’s rated output at 15°C air temperature and assume:
- Continuous 24/7 operation
- Insulated pool cover in place when not swimming
- No heat loss through evaporation or convection
- Average weather conditions
Actual heat-up times will vary based on:
- Ambient air temperature (colder air = longer times)
- Wind exposure and pool location
- Pool cover usage and quality
- Ground temperature and pool construction
- Initial water temperature
- Operating mode selected (Turbo vs. Perfect vs. Silence)
💡 Pro Tip: To minimize heat-up time, always use a high-quality insulated pool cover, especially overnight and during windy conditions. A good cover can reduce heat loss by up to 75%.
💰 Running Cost Comparison vs. Alternative Heating Methods
Understanding the true cost of heating your pool helps you make informed decisions. The I-PAC PRO 16A’s high efficiency translates directly into lower electricity bills compared to traditional heating methods.
Cost Per kWh of Heat Delivered (Approximate)
Based on UK electricity price of £0.25 per kWh and average COP performance:
| Heating Method | COP / Efficiency | Cost per kWh of Heat | Annual Cost (50m³ pool, 6-month season)* |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-PAC PRO 16A (Perfect Mode) | COP 7.7 (avg at 15°C) | £0.032 | £450 – £650 |
| Standard Heat Pump (non-inverter) | COP 5.0 | £0.050 | £700 – £950 |
| Electric Resistance Heater | 100% efficiency | £0.250 | £3,500 – £4,500 |
| Gas Heater (Natural Gas) | 85% efficiency | £0.065 | £900 – £1,300 |
| Oil Heater | 80% efficiency | £0.110 | £1,500 – £2,200 |
*Estimates based on maintaining 28°C water temperature with typical UK weather patterns and heat retention cover usage.
Why the I-PAC PRO 16A Saves You Money
High COP = Lower Bills
For every 1kW of electricity consumed, the I-PAC PRO 16A delivers 7 to 20 times that amount in heating power by extracting free energy from the ambient air. This means you’re paying for only a fraction of the actual heat energy used.
Inverter Technology Savings
By modulating power output to match exact heating demand, inverter technology can reduce electricity consumption by 20-30% compared to traditional on/off heat pumps that constantly cycle at full power.
Example Savings:
A 50m³ pool heated with the I-PAC PRO 16A instead of an electric resistance heater could save approximately £3,000 per season in electricity costs.
🔧 Installation Requirements & Clearances
Minimum Clearance Requirements
For optimal performance and airflow, maintain these minimum clearances:
- Air Inlet Sides: 700mm minimum from any obstruction
- Air Outlet (Front): 750mm minimum from any obstruction
- Top: 500mm minimum clearance
- Between Multiple Units: 700mm minimum between heat pumps
⚠ Important: The heat pump should never be enclosed on more than two sides, even if minimum clearances are met, as this will significantly reduce performance.
Electrical Requirements
- Circuit Protection: Dedicated 25A MCB (Type C) or aM fuse
- RCD Protection: 30mA Type F RCD required (dedicated circuit)
- Voltage Range: 207V – 253V (heat pump will not operate outside this range)
- Isolator: Weatherproof isolator within 2 meters, in line of sight
Water Flow & Plumbing
- Required Flow Rate: 6 – 9 m³/h (6,000 – 9,000 liters per hour)
- Water Connections: 50mm or 48.3mm female unions (included)
- Bypass Valve: Mandatory to regulate flow rate
- Piping: Solid pipe connections (not flexible hose)
💡 Installation Tip: The compact side-outlet design makes the I-PAC PRO 16A ideal for tight spaces, plant rooms, or installations against walls where top or rear outlet models won’t fit.
What’s Included in the Box
✅ Anti-vibration rubber feet (4 pieces)
✅ Winter thermal cover
✅ Water connection union kit (50mm and 48.3mm female)
✅ Condensate drain fitting with hose
✅ Comprehensive user manual
Optional Accessory:
📦 10-meter wired remote control panel (sold separately)
🛡️ Protection Features & Safety
The I-PAC PRO 16A includes comprehensive built-in protection systems:
Electrical Protection:
- High and low pressure protection
- Over-current protection
- Phase protection (prevents reverse phasing damage)
- Supply voltage monitoring (E5 protection)
- Anti-freeze protection
Operational Protection:
- 3-minute compressor restart delay (prevents short-cycling damage)
- Flow switch protection (E3 – prevents dry running)
- High exhaust temperature protection (E8)
- Automatic defrost with four-way valve
Water Quality Protection:
- Titanium heat exchanger (immune to chlorine and salt corrosion)
- Water temperature differential monitoring (E6)
- Condensate drainage system
All protection codes are clearly displayed on the touchscreen panel for easy troubleshooting.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What size pool is the I-PAC PRO 16A suitable for?
The I-PAC PRO 16A is designed for medium to large residential pools. For seasonal use (March-November), it can effectively heat pools up to 75m² surface area (approximately 50-60m³ volume) when targeting 28°C water temperature. For year-round use, it’s ideal for pools up to 55m² surface area. Pool sizing depends on several factors including insulation, cover usage, location, and desired water temperature.
How much does it cost to run the I-PAC PRO 16A?
Running costs depend on your pool size, target temperature, local weather, and electricity rates. Based on an average electricity cost of £0.25/kWh and the heat pump’s excellent efficiency (COP 7-9 in typical conditions), a 50m³ pool heated during a 6-month season would cost approximately £450-£650 in electricity – dramatically less than electric or gas heaters. The inverter technology provides additional savings of 20-30% compared to traditional on/off heat pumps.
Can it really heat my pool in winter temperatures?
Yes! The I-PAC PRO 16A is specifically designed for all-year operation and will continue heating even when ambient air temperatures drop to -20°C. However, heating capacity and efficiency do reduce in colder conditions. At 15°C air temperature, it delivers 15kW; at -10°C it still produces 8.2kW. For best winter performance, ensure excellent pool insulation, use a high-quality thermal cover, and expect longer heat-up times in very cold weather.
How quiet is the I-PAC PRO 16A?
The I-PAC PRO 16A is exceptionally quiet, measuring just 18.8 to 28.5 dB(A) at 10 meters depending on operating mode and load. For context, that’s quieter than a whisper (30 dB) or rustling leaves (20 dB). In Silence Mode, noise levels are reduced even further – approximately 5 dB(A) lower – making it ideal for nighttime operation or noise-sensitive residential areas. The inverter technology, combined with DC brushless fan motors and anti-vibration mounts, ensures peaceful operation.
What’s the difference between Turbo, Perfect, and Silence modes?
- Turbo Mode: Maximum heating capacity (100-20% power range). Use for initial heat-up or when you need rapid temperature increase. Provides the full 22.5kW output in optimal conditions.
- Perfect Mode: Intelligent automatic optimization (80-20% power range). The recommended mode for everyday use. Automatically adjusts based on conditions to maximize efficiency while maintaining comfort. Delivers average COP of 15.2 at 50% speed.
- Silence Mode: Ultra-quiet operation (50-20% power range). Reduces sound output by ~5 dB(A) for nighttime or noise-sensitive operation while still providing effective heating.
Can it cool my pool in summer?
Absolutely! The I-PAC PRO 16A features a reverse cycle cooling function that can reduce water temperature during hot weather. At 35°C air temperature, it delivers 11.9kW of cooling capacity. You can set the heat pump to Auto Mode, which will automatically switch between heating and cooling to maintain your target temperature year-round. This is especially valuable for indoor pools or regions with hot summers where pool water can become uncomfortably warm.
How long will the I-PAC PRO 16A last?
With proper maintenance and care, the I-PAC PRO 16A is built to provide 15-20+ years of reliable service. The titanium heat exchanger is virtually indestructible and immune to corrosion, the inverter technology reduces mechanical wear by eliminating hard starts/stops, and the weatherproof aluminum cabinet protects internal components. Regular maintenance includes cleaning the evaporator fins, checking water chemistry, and annual professional inspections. The unit comes with a comprehensive 5-year parts and labor warranty for peace of mind.
Do I need a special electrical supply?
The I-PAC PRO 16A operates on standard 230V single-phase power, so no three-phase supply is needed. However, it does require:
- A dedicated 25A circuit protected by a Type C MCB or aM fuse
- A 30mA Type F RCD for earth leakage protection
- Proper voltage supply (207-253V range)
- A weatherproof isolator within 2 meters
Most homes have suitable power available, but we recommend having a qualified electrician verify your electrical system before installation.
Can I control it from my smartphone?
Yes! The I-PAC PRO 16A includes a built-in Wi-Fi module that connects to the free Pooltherm App (available for iOS and Android). From your smartphone, you can:
- Monitor current pool temperature remotely
- Adjust target temperature settings
- Switch between heating/cooling/auto modes
- Select Turbo/Perfect/Silence operating modes
- Set timer schedules for automated operation
- View real-time energy consumption
- Receive fault alerts and notifications
- Access over-the-air firmware updates
Perfect for checking your pool temperature before you arrive home or adjusting settings while you’re away.
What maintenance does it require?
The I-PAC PRO 16A is designed for low-maintenance operation:
Monthly:
- Clean the evaporator fins with a soft brush if debris accumulates
- Check condensate drain hose for blockages
- Verify water flow and inspect for leaks
Annually:
- Professional inspection of electrical connections
- Refrigerant system check by qualified F-Gas engineer
- Water chemistry verification (pH 7.2-7.8, chlorine 1-2ppm)
Winter/Off-Season:
- Drain the heat pump completely
- Flush water circuit with clean tap water
- Install the included winter thermal cover
- Store in a ventilated area if possible
The titanium heat exchanger requires no descaling or special treatments and is immune to salt and chlorine damage.
Is the R32 refrigerant safe and environmentally friendly?
Yes, R32 is one of the most environmentally responsible refrigerants available. It has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of just 675 – approximately 68% lower than the older R410A refrigerant. R32 is classified as A2L (low toxicity, lower flammability), making it safe for residential use while meeting strict EU F-Gas regulations. The I-PAC PRO 16A is designed with proper safeguards for R32 use, including area requirements and ventilation standards detailed in the installation manual.
What warranty is included?
The I-PAC PRO 16A comes with a comprehensive 5-year on-site parts and labor warranty covering manufacturing defects and component failures. This warranty requires:
- Professional installation by a qualified installer
- Registration within 30 days of installation
- Proper water chemistry maintenance (pH 7.2-7.8)
- Annual professional servicing
- Compliance with winterization procedures if applicable
Extended warranty options may be available – contact your supplier for details.
📦 What’s Included & Optional Accessories
Standard Package Contents
Every I-PAC PRO 16A heat pump includes everything you need for installation:
✅ I-PAC PRO 16A Inverter Heat Pump Unit
✅ Anti-Vibration Rubber Feet (4 pieces) – Reduces operational vibration and noise
✅ Winter Thermal Cover – Protects the unit during off-season storage
✅ Water Union Connection Kit – Includes both 50mm and 48.3mm female fittings
✅ Condensate Drain Kit – Adaptor and flexible hose for drainage
✅ Comprehensive Installation & Operation Manual – 50-page detailed guide
Optional Accessories (Sold Separately)
🎮 Wired Remote Control Panel with 10m Cable
Ideal for installations where the heat pump is located in a plant room or away from convenient viewing. Provides full control and monitoring from a more accessible location. Features identical functionality to the built-in touchscreen control panel.
🔧 Professional Installation Service
While the I-PAC PRO 16A can be installed by competent DIYers with electrical knowledge, professional installation ensures optimal performance, warranty compliance, and peace of mind. Ask your supplier about installation services.
⚠️ Important Safety & Compliance Information
Electrical Safety
- Heat pump must be installed by a qualified electrician in accordance with IEE Wiring Regulations or local codes
- Installation must comply with EMC Directive 2014/30/EU
- Unit must be located minimum 3.5 meters from pool edge per electrical safety regulations
- All electrical work must include proper earthing/grounding
- RCD protection is mandatory
Refrigerant Safety (R32)
The I-PAC PRO 16A contains 1.7kg of R32 refrigerant (A2L classification). Installation and servicing of the refrigeration circuit must only be performed by F-Gas certified technicians. The heat pump requires a minimum room area of 24.6m² if installed indoors (calculated per EN 378-1:2016). Outdoor installations automatically meet this requirement.
Water Quality Requirements
To maintain warranty validity and ensure long service life, pool water must meet these specifications:
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.2 – 7.8 |
| Total Alkalinity | 80 – 120 ppm (as CaCO₃) |
| Total Hardness | 150 – 250 ppm (as CaCO₃) |
| Free Chlorine | 1 – 2 ppm (domestic) / 3 – 6 ppm (commercial) |
| Salt Content | Max 35,000 ppm (saltwater compatible) |
| Copper Content | Max 1 ppm |
Winterization
CRITICAL: If you live in a climate where temperatures regularly drop below 5°C and you will not be using your pool during winter, you must perform the winterization procedure outlined in the installation manual. Failure to properly winterize the heat pump can result in frost damage to the titanium heat exchanger and internal components, which is not covered under warranty.
The winterization process includes:
- Complete drainage of all water from the heat pump
- Flushing the water circuit with clean tap water
- Protecting electrical connections from moisture
- Covering the unit with the supplied thermal winter cover
🌟 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs?
When you purchase the I-PAC PRO 16A from Parts4Tubs, you receive:
✅ Genuine UK Market Product with full manufacturer warranty
✅ Fast Delivery from UK stock
✅ Expert Technical Support from pool heating specialists
✅ Professional Installation Service available (optional)
✅ Competitive Pricing with transparent costs
✅ Complete Documentation including installation manual and product brochure
🚀 Ready to Transform Your Pool Experience?
The I-PAC PRO 16A Inverter Heat Pump represents the perfect balance of power, efficiency, and smart technology. Whether you’re extending your swimming season, enabling year-round swimming, or simply wanting precise temperature control with minimal running costs, this advanced heat pump delivers exceptional value.
Key Investment Highlights:
- Pay for itself: Typical payback period of 3-4 years vs. gas heating
- Low running costs: £450-£650 per season for a 50m³ pool
- Eco-friendly: Reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 75% vs. electric heating
- Future-proof: Wi-Fi connectivity and over-the-air firmware updates
- Built to last: 15-20+ year lifespan with titanium heat exchanger
Don’t let another swimming season pass you by. Take control of your pool temperature with intelligent inverter technology and enjoy comfortable swimming whenever you want.


