🌡️ I-PAC PRO 28B Side-Outlet Inverter Heat Pump (3-Phase) – 32.5kW All-Year Pool Heating & Cooling

Transform your pool experience with professional-grade climate control that works 365 days a year, even in extreme conditions from -20°C to +43°C.

The I-PAC PRO 28B represents the pinnacle of pool heating technology – a three-phase inverter heat pump that delivers exceptional performance, whisper-quiet operation, and intelligent climate control for medium to large residential and commercial pools. Whether you’re heating your pool on a crisp spring morning or cooling it during a summer heatwave, this premium unit adapts seamlessly to your needs.

For the Environmentally Conscious: Using eco-friendly R32 refrigerant with a low Global Warming Potential, this heat pump delivers outstanding efficiency with a COP (Coefficient of Performance) reaching up to 19.7 – meaning you get nearly 20kW of heating for every 1kW of electricity consumed.

For Noise-Sensitive Locations: With revolutionary Silence Mode reducing noise to just 16.4 dB(A) at 10 metres (quieter than a whisper), you can enjoy pool heating without disturbing neighbours or peaceful garden moments. The ultra-quiet operation is achieved through advanced inverter technology and carefully engineered airflow design.

For Year-Round Pool Enjoyment: Unlike basic heat pumps that struggle in cooler weather, the I-PAC PRO 28B operates reliably in temperatures from -20°C to +43°C, making it ideal for UK climates and beyond. Swim comfortably from early spring through late autumn, or maintain therapeutic water temperatures throughout winter.

For Smart Home Integration: The built-in Wi-Fi module and touchscreen control panel allow you to monitor and adjust your pool temperature from anywhere using the PoolTherm app (iOS and Android). Check water temperature, adjust settings, and receive alerts – all from your smartphone.

🎯 Key Performance Features

Exceptional Heating & Cooling Capacity

• Turbo Mode: 32.5kW heating output for rapid pool warming
• Perfect Mode: 26.0kW with intelligent optimization for maximum efficiency (COP up to 19.7)
• Silence Mode: 16.3kW ultra-quiet operation ideal for evening heating
• Cooling Capacity: 15.4kW for refreshing temperature reduction during hot weather

Intelligent Inverter Technology

The DC twin-rotary inverter compressor provides stepless capacity modulation from 20% to 100%, ensuring:

• Precise temperature control within ±0.5°C
• Soft-start technology reducing electrical stress and extending equipment lifespan
• Dramatic energy savings compared to traditional on/off heat pumps
• Optimized performance across all ambient conditions

Premium Construction for Longevity

• Titanium Heat Exchanger: Exceptional corrosion resistance in chlorinated, salt, and brominated pool water – significantly outlasting copper alternatives
• Aluminum Alloy Cabinet: Weatherproof housing with powder-coated finish for years of outdoor exposure
• Anti-Vibration Mounts: Included rubber dampeners minimize operational noise and prevent vibration transmission
• Electronic Expansion Valve (EEV): Precise refrigerant control for optimal efficiency in all conditions

Advanced Climate Control

• Four-Way Valve System: Rapid reverse-cycle defrosting maintains performance in cold weather
• Auto Mode: Automatically switches between heating and cooling based on pool temperature
• High & Low Pressure Protection: Comprehensive safety systems prevent component damage
• Pool Pump Synchronization: Optional terminals (P1/P2) coordinate with filter pump timers for optimized energy use

📊 Complete Technical Specifications

Electrical Specifications

Specification	Value
Power Supply	400V, 3-Phase, 50Hz
Rated Input Power	0.51kW – 4.28kW (variable)
Rated Input Current	0.74A – 6.20A
Maximum Input Current	9.4A
Recommended Fuse/MCB	Type C, 16A
Required RCD	Type B, 30mA
Electrical Protection	IP24 (protected against splashing water)

Heating Performance

Standard Conditions (Air 27°C, Water 27°C, 80% RH):

Operating Mode	Heating Output	COP Range	Average COP at 50% Speed
Turbo Mode	32.5kW	7.3 – 19.7	14.6
Perfect Mode	26.0kW	7.3 – 19.7	14.6
Silence Mode	16.3kW	7.3 – 19.7	14.6

Cooler Conditions (Air 15°C, Water 26°C, 70% RH):

Operating Mode	Heating Output	COP Range	Average COP at 50% Speed
Turbo Mode	22.7kW	5.3 – 8.2	7.2
Perfect Mode	18.8kW	5.3 – 8.2	7.2
Silence Mode	11.4kW	5.3 – 8.2	7.2

Cooling Performance (Air 35°C, Water 28°C, 80% RH):

• Cooling Capacity: 15.4kW

Water Circuit Specifications

Specification	Value
Recommended Flow Rate	10 – 12 m³/h (10,000 – 12,000 litres/hour)
Water Pressure Drop	16 kPa
Water Connection Size	48.3mm or 50mm female union (1.5″ or 2″)
Water Temperature Range (Heating)	18°C – 40°C
Water Temperature Range (Cooling)	12°C – 30°C
Auto Mode Range	12°C – 40°C

Refrigeration System

Specification	Value
Refrigerant Type	R32 (eco-friendly)
Refrigerant Charge	3.0kg
CO₂ Equivalent	2.025 tonnes
Global Warming Potential (GWP)	675
Safety Classification	A2L (low toxicity, lower flammability)
Compressor Type	DC twin-rotary inverter compressor
Heat Exchanger Type	Twisted titanium condenser

Physical Dimensions & Weight

Specification	Value
Dimensions (W × D × H)	1264mm × 536mm × 954mm
Net Weight	132kg
Cabinet Material	Powder-coated aluminum alloy
Cabinet Finish	Weatherproof outdoor-rated

Acoustic Performance

Operating Mode	Sound Level @ 10m	Sound Level @ 1m (estimated)
Silence Mode	19.7 dB(A)	~43 dB(A)
Perfect Mode	25.0 dB(A)	~48 dB(A)
Turbo Mode	30.4 dB(A)	~53 dB(A)

For reference: 20 dB(A) = whisper, 30 dB(A) = quiet library, 40 dB(A) = quiet conversation

Operating Conditions

Parameter	Range
Ambient Air Temperature	-20°C to +43°C
Defrost Operation	Automatic reverse-cycle defrost when required
Maximum Airflow	7,000 m³/h
Minimum Installation Area	76.6 m² (due to R32 refrigerant regulations)

📄 Downloads & Technical Documentation

Access comprehensive installation guides, technical specifications, and product information:

📥 I-PAC PRO Installation Manual (opens in new tab) Complete owner and installation manual covering setup procedures, electrical connections, water circuit configuration, control panel operation, Wi-Fi setup with PoolTherm app, maintenance schedules, winterization procedures, troubleshooting guides, protection codes, fault codes, and warranty information. Essential reading for installers and operators. (50 pages)

📥 I-PAC PRO Product Brochure (opens in new tab) Detailed product brochure featuring the complete I-PAC PRO range, performance specifications, sizing charts for domestic pools, technical data tables, control panel overview, dimensions, and application examples. Includes helpful pool sizing graphs for both seasonal and all-year-round use. (Multiple pages)

🏊 Pool Sizing & Heat-Up Time Calculator

Recommended Pool Sizes

Seasonal Use (March – November, approximately 38-40 weeks):

• Pool Surface Area: Up to 90-100 m² (970-1,076 sq ft)
• Pool Volume: Up to 110-120 m³ (110,000-120,000 litres)
• Target Temperature: 28°C – 30°C
• Usage Pattern: Domestic/residential weekend use with good pool cover

All-Year-Round Use:

• Pool Surface Area: 60-70 m² (645-753 sq ft)
• Pool Volume: 75-90 m³ (75,000-90,000 litres)
• Target Temperature: 28°C – 30°C
• Usage Pattern: Regular use with insulated heat retention cover (20+ hours/day)

Estimated Heat-Up Times ⏱

Important: These are theoretical estimates based on ideal conditions. Actual heat-up times vary significantly based on ambient temperature, wind exposure, pool cover usage, initial water temperature, and pool construction.

Formula Used: Time (hours) = (Pool Volume in m³ × Temperature Rise in °C × 1.16) ÷ Heat Pump kW Rating

Heat-Up Times Using Turbo Mode (32.5kW):

Pool Volume	Temperature Rise	Estimated Time	Realistic Time with Losses
60 m³ (60,000L)	5°C (e.g., 18°C → 23°C)	10.7 hours	15-18 hours
60 m³ (60,000L)	10°C (e.g., 15°C → 25°C)	21.4 hours	30-36 hours
80 m³ (80,000L)	5°C (e.g., 18°C → 23°C)	14.3 hours	20-24 hours
80 m³ (80,000L)	10°C (e.g., 15°C → 25°C)	28.6 hours	40-48 hours
100 m³ (100,000L)	5°C (e.g., 18°C → 23°C)	17.8 hours	25-30 hours
100 m³ (100,000L)	10°C (e.g., 15°C → 25°C)	35.7 hours	50-60 hours

Heat-Up Times Using Perfect Mode (26.0kW):

Pool Volume	Temperature Rise	Estimated Time	Realistic Time with Losses
60 m³ (60,000L)	5°C (e.g., 18°C → 23°C)	13.4 hours	19-23 hours
60 m³ (60,000L)	10°C (e.g., 15°C → 25°C)	26.8 hours	38-45 hours
80 m³ (80,000L)	5°C (e.g., 18°C → 23°C)	17.8 hours	25-30 hours
80 m³ (80,000L)	10°C (e.g., 15°C → 25°C)	35.7 hours	50-60 hours
100 m³ (100,000L)	5°C (e.g., 18°C → 23°C)	22.3 hours	32-38 hours
100 m³ (100,000L)	10°C (e.g., 15°C → 25°C)	44.6 hours	63-75 hours

⚠ Key Factors Affecting Actual Heat-Up Time:

• Pool Cover Usage: A quality cover can reduce heat loss by 70-90%, dramatically improving heat-up times
• Ambient Temperature: Performance reduces in colder weather; times shown assume moderate conditions
• Wind Exposure: Sheltered pools heat much faster than exposed locations
• Pool Insulation: Ground-insulated pools lose less heat than above-ground or uninsulated structures
• Night-Time Operation: Heat loss increases significantly at night without adequate covering
• Water Chemistry: Proper water balance ensures optimal heat transfer

💰 Running Cost Comparison

Why Heat Pumps Save You Money:

Heat pumps don’t generate heat through combustion or electrical resistance – they transfer ambient heat from the air into your pool water. This makes them 3-7 times more efficient than traditional heating methods.

Approximate Running Costs (Per Hour of Operation):

Based on UK average electricity rate of £0.24/kWh (2024) and typical operating conditions

Operating Mode	Power Consumption	Cost Per Hour	Daily Cost (8hrs)	Weekly Cost (56hrs)
Silence Mode	~2.3kW average	£0.55	£4.40	£30.80
Perfect Mode	~3.5kW average	£0.84	£6.72	£47.04
Turbo Mode	~4.3kW average	£1.03	£8.24	£57.68

Seasonal Heating Cost Estimates:

Scenario: 80m³ pool heated from April to October (28 weeks)

Heating Method	Efficiency	Estimated Season Cost	CO₂ Emissions
I-PAC PRO 28B (Perfect Mode)	COP 7.2 average	£800 – £1,200	~1.5 tonnes
Gas Boiler	85% efficient	£2,400 – £3,000	~8 tonnes
Oil Boiler	80% efficient	£2,800 – £3,500	~10 tonnes
Electric Resistance Heater	100% efficient	£5,600 – £7,000	~10 tonnes

💡 Potential Savings: Up to £5,800 per season compared to electric heating, £2,300 compared to gas

Estimates assume maintaining 28°C water temperature with good pool cover usage. Actual costs vary based on ambient conditions, pool insulation, cover usage, and electricity/fuel prices.

🔧 Installation Requirements & Clearances

Electrical Installation

⚡ Critical Requirements:

• Three-phase 400V supply required (professional electrician essential)
• Dedicated circuit with 16A Type C MCB or aM fuse
• Type B RCD (30mA) protecting heat pump only
• Mains isolator within 2m of unit, with clear line of sight
• Minimum voltage: 360V | Maximum voltage: 440V
• All wiring must comply with BS 7671 (IEE Wiring Regulations)

💰 Electrical Supply Costs: If your property doesn’t have 3-phase power, contact your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO). Installation costs typically range from £1,500-£4,000 depending on distance from nearest 3-phase supply.

Outdoor Installation Clearances

Minimum Spacing Requirements:

Location	Minimum Distance
From Pool Edge	3.5m (safety regulation requirement)
Air Inlet (sides)	500mm clear
Air Outlet (front)	700mm clear
Between Units (if multiple heat pumps)	700mm minimum
From Obstacles (walls, fences, hedges)	700mm recommended
Above Unit	No overhead structures recommended

🌬️ Airflow Optimization:

• Position with unobstructed airflow to maximize efficiency
• Avoid recessed courtyards or enclosed spaces where exhaust air can recirculate
• Orient multiple units with air outlets facing the same direction
• Never install under awnings, pergolas, or low-hanging structures

Indoor/Plant Room Installation

When installing in a plant room:

• Minimum Room Floor Area: 76.6 m² (due to R32 refrigerant safety regulations)
• Wall Penetration Required: 1080mm (W) × 880mm (H) minimum
• Free Discharge Area: 0.95 m² minimum
• Air Sealing: Essential around unit perimeter to prevent exhaust recirculation
• Ventilation: Room must have adequate fresh air supply

📋 Optional Accessories for Indoor Installation:

• Remote control panel with 10m cable (highly recommended when display is hidden)
• Air sealing strip for corner/wall junction

Water Circuit Requirements

Essential Components:

• Isolation Valves: Before and after heat pump for maintenance
• Bypass Valve: Adjusted to achieve 10-12 m³/h flow rate
• Non-Return Valve: Prevents backflow through heat pump
• Pressure Gauge/Flow Meter: Verify correct flow rate (recommended)
• Y-Strainer: Protect heat exchanger from debris (highly recommended)

💧 Water Chemistry Requirements:

Parameter	Required Range
pH Level	7.2 – 7.8
Total Alkalinity (as CaCO₃)	80 – 120 ppm
Total Hardness (as CaCO₃)	150 – 250 ppm
Free Chlorine (Domestic)	1 – 2 ppm
Free Chlorine (Commercial)	3 – 6 ppm
Total Dissolved Solids	Max 1,000 ppm
Salt Content	Max 35,000 ppm
Copper Content	Max 1 ppm

⚠ Water Chemistry Warning: Operating outside these parameters will void the warranty and can cause premature heat exchanger failure.

🎮 Smart Control & Connectivity

Touchscreen Control Panel Features

Real-Time Monitoring:

• Inlet water temperature display
• Outlet water temperature display
• Current power consumption (kW) or compressor speed percentage
• Operating mode indicators (Heat/Cool/Auto and Turbo/Perfect/Silence)
• Wi-Fi connection status
• Fault code display

User Controls:

• Temperature setpoint adjustment (up/down buttons)
• Mode selection (heating, cooling, auto)
• Power mode selection (turbo, perfect, silence)
• Screen lock function
• Manual defrost initiation
• Parameter access (installer settings)

PoolTherm Mobile App

Available for iOS and Android

App Capabilities:

• Remote on/off control from anywhere with internet
• Temperature monitoring and adjustment
• Mode switching (heat/cool/auto and turbo/perfect/silence)
• Real-time performance data (power consumption, temperatures)
• Operating status and fault notifications
• Timer programming (on/off schedules)
• Multiple heat pump management (if applicable)
• Firmware update notifications

📱 App Setup: Simple Wi-Fi pairing process detailed in installation manual with step-by-step screenshots

Optional Remote Control Panel

Wired Remote Panel Features:

• 10m cable included
• Full control access (matches main panel functionality)
• Timer programming with single or cycle modes
• Temperature display in °C or °F
• Ideal for poolside locations or indoor control points
• Requires wall mounting (bracket included)

⚙️ Advanced Features:

• Pool Pump Synchronization: Terminals P1/P2 can override filter pump timers for intelligent heating/cooling demands
• Remote On/Off Terminals: External switch capability for building management systems
• Sampling Function: Hourly water temperature checks with automatic pump activation if heating/cooling needed
• Power-Down Memory: Automatically restarts after power cuts (if previously operating)

🌍 Environmental & Efficiency Benefits

Eco-Friendly R32 Refrigerant

Why R32 Matters:

• 67% Lower GWP than R410A (previous generation refrigerant)
• EU F-Gas Compliant: Future-proofed for environmental regulations
• Better Heat Transfer: Improves efficiency compared to older refrigerants
• Single-Component: Easier to recycle and reclaim at end of life
• A2L Safety Rating: Low toxicity and lower flammability for safe operation

Inverter Technology Advantages

Traditional On/Off Heat Pump:

• Runs at 100% capacity until setpoint reached, then switches off
• Frequent start-stop cycles waste energy
• Temperature fluctuates ±2-3°C
• High electrical surge on each startup
• Noisy operation

I-PAC PRO Inverter Heat Pump:

• ✅ Modulates from 20% to 100% capacity for exact heating needs
• ✅ Maintains steady operation with minimal cycling
• ✅ Temperature control within ±0.5°C
• ✅ Soft-start reduces electrical stress by up to 70%
• ✅ Quieter operation at reduced speeds
• ✅ 30-50% energy savings compared to on/off models

Carbon Footprint Reduction

Annual CO₂ Savings (vs. traditional heating):

• Compared to Gas Boiler: ~6.5 tonnes CO₂/year saved
• Compared to Oil Boiler: ~8.5 tonnes CO₂/year saved
• Compared to Electric Heater: ~8.5 tonnes CO₂/year saved

Based on 28-week swimming season maintaining 80m³ pool at 28°C

🛡️ Warranty & Quality Assurance

5-Year On-Site Parts & Labour Warranty

Comprehensive Coverage:

• Full parts coverage for 5 years from installation date
• On-site labour included (no call-out charges)
• Nationwide service network across UK
• Genuine Dantherm Group replacement parts
• Telephone technical support

Warranty Conditions:

• Professional installation by qualified technician required
• Installation must comply with IEE regulations and manufacturer guidelines
• Water chemistry must be maintained within specified parameters
• Annual service recommended (though not mandatory for warranty)
• Winterization required if unit left unused during freezing conditions

❌ Warranty Exclusions:

• Damage from incorrect water chemistry
• Frost damage from improper winterization
• Electrical supply issues or voltage fluctuations
• Physical damage or unauthorized modifications
• Improper installation or incorrect sizing

Quality Management Certifications

• ISO 9001: Quality management system certification
• ISO 14001: Environmental management system certification
• CE Marked: Complies with EU safety and performance standards
• F-Gas Regulations: Fully compliant refrigerant handling and documentation
• Manufactured by Dantherm Group: Leading HVAC manufacturer with decades of expertise

📦 What’s Included in the Box

Standard Supply Package:

✅ I-PAC PRO 28B Heat Pump Unit (fully assembled and factory tested) ✅ Anti-Vibration Rubber Mounts (4 pieces for reduced noise transmission) ✅ Winter Cover (weatherproof cover for off-season protection) ✅ Water Union Connectors (2× 50mm female and 2× 48.3mm female unions) ✅ Condensate Drainage Kit (adaptor and flexible hose for water drainage) ✅ Installation & Owner Manual (comprehensive 50-page guide) ✅ Warranty Documentation (registration details and terms)

Optional Accessories (sold separately):

• Wired remote control panel with 10m cable
• Air sealing strip (for indoor/plant room installations)
• Outdoor security cage/housing
• Extended plumbing kits

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

General Operation Questions

Q: How does a heat pump differ from a traditional pool heater?

A: Traditional heaters (gas, oil, electric) generate heat by burning fuel or using electrical resistance. Heat pumps are far more efficient – they extract warmth from ambient air and transfer it to your pool water, using just electricity to power the transfer process. For every 1kW of electricity consumed, a heat pump can deliver 7-20kW of heating (depending on conditions), making them 700-2000% efficient. This translates to heating costs that are typically 60-80% lower than traditional methods.

Q: Will the I-PAC PRO 28B heat my pool in winter?

A: Yes, the unit operates down to -20°C ambient temperature, but performance reduces in colder weather. At 15°C air temperature, the unit produces 22.7kW heating (vs. 32.5kW at 27°C). For winter use, you’ll need to run the heat pump longer and should use an insulated pool cover. Many UK customers successfully maintain 28-30°C pool temperatures year-round, though heating costs increase during colder months. For consistent winter use, consider combining with a secondary backup heater or choosing a slightly oversized model.

Q: What is the difference between Turbo, Perfect, and Silence modes?

A: Turbo Mode runs at maximum capacity (100%) for fastest heating – ideal for rapid temperature increases or recovering from cold spells. Perfect Mode automatically adjusts capacity between 20-80% based on ambient conditions, optimizing for highest efficiency and lowest running costs – recommended for daily operation. Silence Mode limits capacity to 50% maximum, reducing noise levels by approximately 5dB(A) for use during evenings, early mornings, or in noise-sensitive locations.

Q: How long does it take to heat my pool from cold?

A: This depends heavily on pool volume, temperature rise needed, ambient conditions, and cover usage. As a realistic example: an 80,000-litre (80m³) pool requiring a 10°C temperature rise (15°C to 25°C) would take approximately 40-48 hours in Turbo Mode with moderate ambient temperature (15-20°C) and a good pool cover. Without a cover or in colder weather, this could extend to 60-80 hours. Perfect Mode would add 30-40% to these times. Using the pool cover overnight is essential for reasonable heat-up times.

Q: Do I need 3-phase power, and what if I don’t have it?

A: Yes, the I-PAC PRO 28B requires 400V three-phase electricity supply. If your property only has single-phase power (standard in most UK homes), you’ll need to request a 3-phase upgrade from your Distribution Network Operator (DNO). Costs range from £1,500-£4,000 depending on distance from the nearest 3-phase supply. Alternatively, consider the I-PAC PRO 28A model, which delivers identical performance but runs on single-phase 230V power (though it draws higher current: 24A vs. 9.4A).

Q: Is this unit suitable for saltwater pools?

A: Yes! The titanium heat exchanger provides exceptional corrosion resistance in salt water pools (up to 35,000 ppm salt concentration). Titanium significantly outlasts copper or cupro-nickel heat exchangers in chlorinated and salt environments. However, you must still maintain proper water chemistry within the specified ranges to prevent premature wear and preserve warranty coverage.

Installation & Setup Questions

Q: Can I install the heat pump myself, or do I need a professional?

A: Professional installation is mandatory and required for warranty validation. Installation involves three-phase electrical work (must be completed by qualified electrician), refrigerant handling (requires F-Gas certification), and proper water circuit integration. Incorrect installation can damage the unit, create safety hazards, void your warranty, and violate UK building regulations. Budget £500-£1,500 for professional installation depending on site complexity.

Q: How far can the heat pump be located from the pool?

A: Electrically, the unit can be several hundred meters from the pool with appropriate cable sizing. For the water circuit, minimize pipe runs where practical – longer distances mean greater heat loss from pipes and higher pump energy consumption. Most installations keep the heat pump within 10-20 meters of the pool. You must maintain at least 3.5 meters from the pool edge (safety regulation) and ensure proper clearances around the unit for airflow.

Q: Will the heat pump work with my existing pool equipment?

A: Yes, the I-PAC PRO integrates into virtually any pool filtration system. The heat pump sits in-line after your filter and before any sanitizer or chemical dosing equipment. Your existing circulation pump must provide 10-12 m³/h (10,000-12,000 litres/hour) flow rate. If flow is inadequate, a bypass valve can be installed and adjusted. The heat pump can synchronize with filter pump timers using terminals P1/P2 for optimized operation.

Q: Can I control the heat pump from inside my house?

A: Yes, through multiple options: (1) PoolTherm mobile app – control from anywhere with internet connection via built-in Wi-Fi module, (2) Optional wired remote panel – includes 10m cable for indoor mounting, allowing full control without visiting the heat pump, (3) External on/off switch – can integrate with building management systems or home automation via terminals 5 and 6.

Q: What maintenance does the unit require?

A: The I-PAC PRO is remarkably low-maintenance. Monthly tasks: Check condensate drain for blockages, visually inspect for damage, ensure air intakes/outlets are clear, verify correct water chemistry. Annually: Clean evaporator fins with soft brush (avoid high pressure), inspect electrical connections, verify all bolts secure, professional refrigeration circuit check recommended but not mandatory for warranty. Off-season: Drain water circuit completely, flush with clean tap water, cover unit with supplied winter cover. Following the winterization procedure is essential to prevent frost damage and maintain warranty.

Performance & Efficiency Questions

Q: How much will it cost to run the heat pump?

A: Running costs vary significantly based on ambient temperature, desired pool temperature, cover usage, and electricity rates. As a realistic estimate for UK conditions: maintaining an 80m³ pool at 28°C during the swimming season (April-October, 28 weeks) typically costs £800-£1,200 in electricity using Perfect Mode. This compares to £2,400-£3,000 for gas heating or £5,600-£7,000 for electric resistance heating. Your biggest savings opportunity is using a quality pool cover – this can reduce heating costs by 60-70%.

Q: What COP should I expect in real-world conditions?

A: The COP (Coefficient of Performance) varies with ambient temperature. In Perfect Mode: 27°C ambient = COP 14.6 average (exceptional efficiency), 15°C ambient = COP 7.2 average (still very good), 5°C ambient = COP 3.5-4.5 (reduced but acceptable). The published maximum COP of 19.7 occurs at low capacity in ideal conditions – real-world average is typically 7-12 depending on season. Even at the lower end, this represents 700-1200% efficiency compared to traditional heating.

Q: Why does performance decrease in cold weather?

A: Heat pumps extract warmth from ambient air – when air temperature drops, there’s less available heat to extract. The compressor must work harder (consuming more electricity) to achieve the same heating output, reducing efficiency. Additionally, below approximately 5°C ambient, frost forms on the evaporator requiring periodic defrost cycles that temporarily stop heating. The I-PAC PRO’s inverter technology and advanced defrost system minimize these effects, but physics dictates performance will be lower in winter. This is normal for all air source heat pumps.

Q: How does the heat pump perform when it’s raining or humid?

A: Rain and humidity actually improve heat pump performance! The evaporator fins extract both sensible heat (temperature) and latent heat (moisture) from humid air. High humidity conditions result in more condensation on the evaporator, releasing additional energy through the phase change from vapor to liquid. You may notice significant water dripping from the heat pump base during humid conditions – this is normal condensation, not a leak. The supplied condensate drainage kit directs this water away from the unit.

Cooling & Special Features

Q: How effective is the cooling function during hot weather?

A: The cooling capacity is 15.4kW at 35°C ambient (28°C water temperature). This is sufficient to reduce pool temperature by 3-5°C over 24-48 hours in an 80m³ pool during heat waves. Cooling is particularly useful for: hydrotherapy pools requiring lower temperatures, keeping pools refreshing during extended hot spells (25-30°C), preventing excessive algae growth in warm conditions. The cooling function works by running the heat pump in reverse – extracting heat from the pool water and dissipating it into the air.

Q: What is Auto Mode, and when should I use it?

A: Auto Mode automatically switches between heating and cooling based on pool water temperature relative to your setpoint. If water temperature is below setpoint, it heats; if above setpoint, it cools. This is ideal for: unpredictable weather conditions (spring/autumn), maintaining precise temperature ranges for therapy pools, year-round installations with varying climate, situations where you want stable temperature without constant adjustment. The unit intelligently determines the most efficient mode for current conditions.

Q: Can I use the heat pump with a pool cover, and will it help?

A: Absolutely yes, and it’s essential for efficiency! A quality insulated pool cover reduces heat loss by 70-90%, dramatically improving both heat-up times and running costs. The I-PAC PRO will heat your pool much faster and maintain temperature using far less electricity when a cover is used. Without a cover, you can lose 3-5°C overnight even with the heat pump running. We strongly recommend using an insulated floating cover or automatic slatted cover for at least 20 hours per day when the pool is not in use.

Q: How quiet is the heat pump in Silence Mode?

A: In Silence Mode, the unit produces just 19.7 dB(A) at 10 metres distance – roughly equivalent to rustling leaves or a quiet whisper. At 1 metre distance (standing next to the unit), it’s approximately 43 dB(A), similar to a quiet library or soft background music. Perfect Mode is 25 dB(A) at 10m (still very quiet), while Turbo Mode reaches 30.4 dB(A) at 10m (comparable to a quiet conversation). For reference, a typical conversation is 60 dB(A), and refrigerator hum is about 40 dB(A). The inverter technology and carefully engineered airflow make this one of the quietest heat pumps available.

🚀 Take the Next Step Toward Effortless Pool Comfort

Ready to enjoy your pool on your terms – whenever you want, whatever the season?

The I-PAC PRO 28B delivers professional-grade climate control with residential-friendly operation. Whether you’re extending your swimming season by months, maintaining therapeutic temperatures year-round, or simply ensuring your pool is always ready when you are, this heat pump provides the perfect balance of performance, efficiency, and convenience.

Why Buy From Parts4Tubs:

• ✅ Authorized Dantherm Group dealer – genuine products with full manufacturer support
• ✅ Expert technical advice – our team understands pool heating inside and out
• ✅ Professional installation available – nationwide network of qualified installers
• ✅ Competitive pricing – best value without compromising on quality
• ✅ 5-year warranty included – comprehensive parts and labour coverage

Need help choosing the right model or have questions about installation? Contact our team today – we’re here to ensure you select the perfect heating solution for your specific pool and requirements.

Specifications subject to change without notice. Always refer to the product nameplate for exact specifications. Installation must comply with all local and national regulations. E&OE.