VBIV All-Season Full Inverter H8 29kW 3-Phase Swimming Pool Heat Pump 🌊

Experience Year-Round Pool Heating with Ultra-Quiet, Energy-Efficient Performance

Transform your swimming pool into a comfortable oasis from early spring through late autumn with the VBIV All-Season H8 29kW heat pump. This premium full inverter system combines cutting-edge Mitsubishi compressor technology with intelligent PID control, delivering exceptional heating efficiency while operating at whisper-quiet noise levels. Designed for pools between 45-100m³, this professional-grade heat pump adapts its output between 25-100% capacity, ensuring optimal performance and energy savings throughout the extended swimming season.

What makes this heat pump exceptional? Unlike traditional on/off heat pumps that waste energy and create temperature fluctuations, the VBIV H8 29kW uses full inverter technology to modulate its power continuously. This means your pool maintains a perfectly stable temperature within 0.1°C while consuming significantly less electricity. The result? Lower running costs, faster heating times, and a quieter operation that won’t disturb your outdoor relaxation.

🌟 Key Features & Benefits

✅ Full Inverter Technology – Automatically adjusts heat output from 25% to 100% based on demand, maximizing efficiency and minimizing energy waste

✅ Ultra-Quiet Operation – Operates at just 28dB(A) in ECO Silence mode, quieter than a whisper, perfect for noise-sensitive environments

✅ Premium Mitsubishi Compressor – Industry-leading reliability and performance with outstanding COP ratings up to 20

✅ 5″ Full-Colour Touchscreen – Intuitive control panel with temperature display, timers, power consumption graphs, and operation history

✅ WiFi Module Included – Control your pool temperature remotely from your smartphone or tablet, anywhere, anytime

✅ All-Season Performance – Extends your swimming season from March to November with heat tracing protection down to -15°C ambient temperature

✅ PID Self-Learning Control – The most advanced control technology maintains water temperature to within 0.1°C precision

✅ Energy Label A+ – Exceptional energy efficiency reduces running costs by up to 80% compared to traditional pool heaters

Pool Sizing & Compatibility Guide 📏

This 29kW heat pump is specifically designed for swimming pools with water volumes between 45m³ and 100m³.

Is This Heat Pump Right for Your Pool?

Pool Volume	Pool Dimensions (Example)	Suitability	Expected Performance
30-45m³	8m × 4m × 1.4m depth	✅ Good Match	Rapid heating, excellent efficiency
45-60m³	10m × 4m × 1.5m depth	✅✅ Ideal Match	Optimal heating speed and efficiency
60-80m³	12m × 5m × 1.4m depth	✅✅ Ideal Match	Balanced performance
80-100m³	14m × 5m × 1.5m depth	✅ Good Match	Adequate heating, longer heat-up times
100-120m³	16m × 6m × 1.5m depth	⚠️ Undersized	Consider 35kW model

💡 Pro Tip: For outdoor pools, consider factors like wind exposure, pool cover usage, and desired swimming season when selecting capacity. A pool cover can reduce heating requirements by up to 70%.

Estimated Pool Heating Performance ⏱️

Understanding how quickly this heat pump can warm your pool helps you plan your swimming season effectively. The tables below show estimated heating times based on standard conditions.

Heat-Up Time Calculator for Common Pool Sizes

Assumptions for calculations:

• Starting water temperature: 15°C
• Target temperature: 28°C (Temperature rise: 13°C)
• Heat pump operating at 80% average efficiency
• Ambient temperature: 20°C
• No pool cover (times can be reduced by 40-50% with a quality solar cover)

Pool Volume	Pool Size Example	Heat-Up Time*	Daily Running Cost**
45m³	8m × 4m × 1.4m	26-32 hours	£8-12
60m³	10m × 4m × 1.5m	35-42 hours	£10-15
75m³	12m × 4.5m × 1.4m	44-53 hours	£12-18
90m³	14m × 5m × 1.3m	52-63 hours	£14-20
100m³	14m × 5m × 1.5m	58-70 hours	£15-22

*Heat-up times are estimates and will vary based on ambient temperature, wind conditions, humidity, and pool insulation.

**Daily running costs based on maintaining temperature, calculated at £0.28/kWh electricity rate (UK average 2024).

Temperature Rise Scenarios

Here’s how long it takes to achieve different temperature increases for a typical 60m³ pool:

Temperature Rise	Starting Temp	Target Temp	Estimated Time*
5°C	20°C → 25°C	25°C	13-16 hours
8°C	18°C → 26°C	26°C	21-26 hours
10°C	17°C → 27°C	27°C	26-32 hours
13°C	15°C → 28°C	28°C	35-42 hours
15°C	13°C → 28°C	28°C	40-48 hours

Formula Used: Time (hours) = (Pool Volume m³ × Temperature Rise °C × 1.16) ÷ (Heat Pump kW Rating × 0.8 efficiency factor)

⚠️ Important Disclaimer: These are theoretical estimates only. Actual performance depends on multiple variables including ambient air temperature, humidity levels, wind exposure, pool insulation, whether a pool cover is used, and the heat pump’s COP at specific operating conditions. Heat pumps perform most efficiently at warmer ambient temperatures (15°C+) and efficiency reduces in colder conditions.

Complete Technical Specifications 📊

Performance Specifications

Specification	Value
Heating Capacity	29 kW
Power Supply	3-Phase 400V
Maximum COP Rating	Up to 20 (at optimal conditions)
Average COP	6-8 (at 15°C air temp, 26°C water temp, 70% humidity)
Energy Efficiency Class	A+
Suitable Pool Volume	45-100 m³
Compressor Type	Mitsubishi Inverter Compressor
Refrigerant	R32 (eco-friendly, low GWP)
Heat Exchanger	Titanium (corrosion-resistant)

Noise & Environmental

Specification	Value
Noise Level (Standard Mode)	38-42 dB(A) at 10m
Noise Level (ECO Silence Mode)	28 dB(A) at 10m
Operating Temperature Range	-15°C to +43°C ambient
Defrost Function	Automatic hot gas defrost
Low Temperature Protection	Heat tracing for heat exchanger (standard)

Control & Connectivity

Specification	Value
Control System	PID Self-Learning Controller
Display	5″ Full-Colour Touchscreen
Temperature Control Precision	±0.1°C
WiFi Module	Included (remote smartphone control)
Communication Protocol	RS485 Bus Control
Control Features	Timers, Boost Mode, Smart Mode, Silence Mode, Power Graphs

Physical Specifications

Specification	Value
Orientation	Horizontal Installation
Cabinet Material	Weather-resistant powder-coated steel
Fan Type	Axial fan with inverter control
Water Connections	50mm (2″) PVC-U
Recommended Water Flow Rate	8-12 m³/hour
Maximum Water Pressure	3 bar

Included Accessories

• ✅ WiFi control module with smartphone app
• ✅ Winter protective cover
• ✅ 5″ full-colour touchscreen controller
• ✅ Heat tracing for freeze protection
• ✅ Installation manual (contact supplier)
• ✅ Mounting feet and hardware

Installation Requirements

Requirement	Details
Electrical Connection	3-Phase 400V supply required, qualified electrician needed
Minimum Clearances	Front: 3m, Sides: 0.5m, Rear: 0.3m, Top: 2m
Base Requirements	Level concrete pad or reinforced mounting frame
Pool Circulation	Compatible with standard pool filtration systems
Bypass Kit	Recommended (not included)
Isolation Valves	Required for servicing (not included)

Why Choose Full Inverter Technology? 💡

Traditional ON/OFF heat pumps operate at a single speed—they’re either running at full capacity or switched off completely. This creates several problems:

❌ Energy waste when the pump runs at full power even when only gentle heating is needed ❌ Temperature fluctuations as the pool overshoots and undershoots your target ❌ Higher noise levels from constant full-speed operation ❌ Increased wear on components from frequent start-stop cycles ❌ Higher electricity bills from inefficient operation

The VBIV Full Inverter Solution:

✅ Modulates power output from 25% to 100% to match exact heating demand ✅ Maintains precise temperature within 0.1°C of your target setting ✅ Operates quietly at reduced speeds when full power isn’t needed ✅ Extends component life with smooth, continuous operation ✅ Reduces running costs by up to 30-40% compared to ON/OFF models ✅ Achieves higher COP ratings by operating at optimal efficiency points

The PID self-learning controller continuously monitors water temperature, ambient conditions, and heating demand to calculate the perfect compressor speed. Over time, it learns your pool’s thermal characteristics and optimizes performance automatically.

Seasonal Performance & Swimming Season Extension 🌞❄️

Extended Swimming Season: March to November

The VBIV All-Season H8 29kW is specifically designed to operate efficiently in UK climate conditions, extending your swimming season by several months compared to unheated pools.

Spring (March-May):

• Heat pump efficiently raises water temperature from winter lows (8-12°C) to comfortable swimming temperatures (24-28°C)
• COP ratings of 8-12 common during mild spring weather
• Initial heat-up may take 3-5 days depending on starting temperature and pool size

Summer (June-August):

• Peak performance period with COP ratings up to 16-20
• Maintains temperature effortlessly with minimal energy consumption
• Can operate in “maintenance mode” at just 25-40% capacity
• Ideal for solar cover combination to maximize efficiency

Autumn (September-November):

• Continues efficient operation as temperatures decline
• COP ratings of 6-10 typical during autumn months
• Heat tracing protection prevents freezing in overnight cold snaps
• Can maintain comfortable swimming temperatures into early November

Cold Weather Protection

Frost Protection Below 4°C:

• Standard heat tracing keeps heat exchanger above freezing
• Automatic defrost cycle activates when needed
• Continues operation down to -15°C ambient temperature
• Safe automatic shutdown if conditions exceed operational limits

Winter Mode (December-February):

• Heat pump should be winterized if pool is closed
• Drain water from heat exchanger following manual instructions
• Use included winter cover to protect unit from snow and ice
• Can remain operational for indoor pools or heated outdoor facilities

Running Cost Comparison: Heat Pump vs. Alternatives 💰

Understanding the true cost of pool heating helps you make informed decisions. Here’s how the VBIV H8 29kW compares to other heating methods for a typical 60m³ pool:

Annual Running Cost Comparison* (6-Month Season)

Heating Method	Daily Cost	Monthly Cost	Season Cost (Apr-Sep)	CO₂ Emissions
VBIV Heat Pump	£3-5	£90-150	£540-900	Low ✅
Electric Heater	£15-25	£450-750	£2,700-4,500	High ❌
Gas Boiler	£8-12	£240-360	£1,440-2,160	Medium ⚠️
Oil Boiler	£10-15	£300-450	£1,800-2,700	High ❌
Solar Only	£0-2	£0-60	£0-360	None ✅

*Calculations based on maintaining 26-28°C pool temperature, £0.28/kWh electricity, £0.06/kWh gas, average UK weather, and pool cover usage at night. Actual costs vary by usage patterns and local weather.

Return on Investment

Initial Investment: £4,924.92 (inc VAT)

Annual Savings vs. Electric Heater: £2,160-3,600 Payback Period: 1.4-2.3 years

Annual Savings vs. Gas Boiler: £900-1,260 Payback Period: 3.9-5.5 years

Lifetime Savings (10-year lifespan): £9,000-36,000 compared to traditional heating methods

💡 Pro Tip: Combine your heat pump with a quality solar cover to reduce running costs by an additional 40-50%. The investment in a solar cover typically pays for itself within one season.

Installation Guidelines & Placement Recommendations 🔧

Optimal Placement for Maximum Efficiency

Best Practices:

1. Location: Install in an open area with good air circulation—avoid enclosed spaces
2. Sun Exposure: South or west-facing positions maximize daytime performance
3. Wind Protection: Avoid extremely windy locations but ensure adequate ventilation
4. Noise Consideration: Respect minimum 3m distance from bedroom windows and property boundaries
5. Ground Surface: Install on level, solid concrete pad or reinforced mounting platform
6. Drainage: Ensure condensate can drain away freely from the unit

Required Clearances (Minimum)

• Front (airflow discharge): 3 metres minimum
• Sides: 0.5 metres minimum each side
• Rear: 0.3 metres minimum
• Top: 2 metres minimum clearance above unit

Electrical Requirements ⚡

IMPORTANT: This is a 3-phase 400V unit and requires professional installation by a qualified electrician.

• Supply: 3-Phase 400V 50Hz
• Circuit Protection: Dedicated RCD and MCB required
• Cable Sizing: Must comply with BS 7671 wiring regulations
• Isolation Switch: Required within 3m of unit
• Earth Bonding: Essential for safe operation

❌ This unit CANNOT operate on standard single-phase domestic supply (230V)

Plumbing Integration

Water Connection Requirements:

• 50mm (2″) PVC-U pipework connections
• Install isolation valves before and after heat pump
• Bypass system recommended for servicing without pool shutdown
• Water flow rate: 8-12 m³/hour (check compatibility with existing pump)
• Install after filtration system, before chlorination/sanitisation

Recommended Installation Order: Pool → Skimmers → Pool Pump → Filter → Heat Pump → Chlorinator → Return to Pool

Smart Control Features & User Interface 📱

5″ Full-Colour Touchscreen Display

The VBIV H8 is the only full inverter heat pump on the market with a premium 5-inch full-colour touchscreen, making operation simple and intuitive.

Display Features:

• Real-time water temperature with 0.1°C precision
• Ambient air temperature display
• Current power consumption (kW)
• Operating mode indicator
• Error code display for troubleshooting
• Multilingual menu system

Operating Modes

🔥 Boost Mode

• Operates at maximum capacity for rapid heating
• Ideal for initial heat-up or recovering temperature after heavy pool use
• Automatically returns to Smart Mode once target reached

🧠 Smart Mode (Recommended)

• AI-powered self-learning operation
• Optimizes efficiency based on your pool’s thermal characteristics
• Learns usage patterns and adjusts preheating schedules
• Balances speed and energy efficiency automatically

🔇 Silence Mode

• Reduces noise to just 28dB(A) for evening/night operation
• Perfect for noise-sensitive environments
• Programmable via timer for automatic activation
• Slight reduction in heating capacity (approximately 20%)

⏰ Timer Programming

• Set daily on/off schedules for economy tariffs
• Program silence mode for overnight operation
• Schedule boost mode before peak swimming times
• Multiple timer periods per day

WiFi Control & Smartphone App 📲

Included WiFi Module enables:

• Remote temperature adjustment from anywhere
• Real-time monitoring of pool temperature and power usage
• Push notifications for errors or maintenance alerts
• Historical data graphs showing temperature trends and energy consumption
• Schedule management and mode changes
• Software updates for continued optimization

Compatible with iOS and Android devices – Download the manufacturer’s app for full remote control capability.

Frequently Asked Questions ❓

General Operation

Q: How long does it take to heat my pool initially? A: For a 60m³ pool, expect 35-42 hours to raise temperature from 15°C to 28°C in moderate spring conditions. Using a solar cover can reduce this by 40-50%. Once at temperature, maintenance heating requires just a few hours daily.

Q: What temperature should I set my pool to? A: Most swimmers find 26-28°C comfortable for recreational swimming. Competition pools typically maintain 26-27°C, while therapeutic/spa pools may be set to 28-30°C. Each degree higher increases running costs by approximately 10-15%.

Q: Can this heat pump also cool my pool in summer? A: No, the VBIV H8 29kW is a heating-only model. However, in most UK climates, summer pool temperatures rarely require cooling. If your pool regularly exceeds 30°C, consider a reversible heat pump model.

Q: Will the heat pump work in winter? A: The unit operates down to -15°C ambient temperature and includes heat tracing protection. However, efficiency decreases significantly below 10°C. For winter pool use, consider supplementary heating or a larger capacity model. The extended season is typically March-November in the UK.

Installation & Requirements

Q: Can I install this heat pump myself? A: While plumbing connections are straightforward, electrical installation requires a qualified electrician due to 3-phase power requirements. Professional installation ensures warranty validity and safe operation. Budget £300-600 for professional installation.

Q: Do I need 3-phase electricity? A: Yes, this model requires a 3-phase 400V supply. Most residential properties in the UK have only single-phase power. If 3-phase isn’t available, consider the 1-phase models (20kW or lower capacity). Contact your electricity supplier about 3-phase installation—costs typically range from £500-2,500.

Q: What size pool pump do I need? A: The heat pump requires 8-12 m³/hour water flow rate. Most standard pool pumps provide adequate flow. Ensure your pump can maintain sufficient flow through both the filter and heat pump without excessive back pressure.

Q: How close can I install it to my house? A: Maintain at least 3m from windows (especially bedrooms) to minimize noise disturbance. While the unit operates quietly at 28-42dB(A), placing it too close to living areas may cause low-frequency vibration noise. Check local planning regulations regarding boundary distances.

Performance & Efficiency

Q: What does COP mean and why does it vary? A: COP (Coefficient of Performance) measures efficiency—how many units of heat energy you get per unit of electricity consumed. A COP of 8 means you get 8kW of heating for every 1kW of electricity. COP varies with ambient temperature: higher temps = higher COP. This model achieves COP 6-8 average, up to 20 in optimal conditions.

Q: Why is a pool cover important? A: Pool covers reduce heat loss by 50-70%, dramatically lowering running costs and heating times. Without a cover, your pool loses heat through evaporation (70%), radiation (20%), and convection (10%). A cover pays for itself in energy savings within one season.

Q: How much does it cost to run daily? A: Once at temperature, maintenance heating typically costs £3-5 per day (£90-150/month) during the swimming season. Initial heat-up costs more. Actual costs depend on pool size, target temperature, ambient conditions, and cover usage. Install an electricity monitor for precise tracking.

Q: Is it better than a gas heater? A: Heat pumps are 3-5 times more energy-efficient than gas heaters, resulting in 50-70% lower running costs. Gas heaters heat faster initially but cost significantly more to operate long-term. Heat pumps are ideal for season-long pool heating; gas works better for occasional quick heat-ups or spa heating.

Maintenance & Reliability

Q: What maintenance does it require? A: Minimal maintenance is required. Clean the air filter monthly during swimming season, ensure adequate airflow around the unit, and have annual professional servicing. Winter: drain the heat exchanger if closing your pool, and use the protective cover provided.

Q: How long will it last? A: With proper maintenance, expect 10-15 years lifespan. The Mitsubishi compressor is designed for 50,000+ hours of operation. Annual professional servicing extends longevity and maintains efficiency.

Q: What warranty is included? A: Warranty coverage varies by retailer—contact Parts4Tubs directly for specific warranty terms. Standard VBIV models typically include 2-5 year manufacturer warranties depending on registration and installation compliance.

Q: What if something goes wrong? A: The touchscreen displays error codes for troubleshooting. Common issues (dirty filters, flow problems) can be resolved by the user. For technical faults, contact a qualified heat pump engineer. The RS485 connectivity allows remote diagnostics by service technicians.

Compatibility & Upgrades

Q: Is it compatible with saltwater/chlorine pools? A: Yes, the titanium heat exchanger is fully compatible with all standard pool sanitisation systems including salt chlorinators, traditional chlorine, bromine, and mineral systems. Maintain proper water chemistry as per your pool’s requirements.

Q: Can I control it with my home automation system? A: The RS485 bus control protocol allows integration with building management systems and some home automation platforms. Consult with a smart home installer for compatibility with your specific system (Alexa, Google Home, etc.).

Q: Will it work with my solar heating? A: Yes! Heat pumps work excellently alongside solar heating. Use solar heating as your primary system on sunny days, with the heat pump supplementing on cloudy days or maintaining temperature overnight. This combination maximizes efficiency and extends your season.

Before Purchasing, Confirm:

• Current warranty terms and duration
• Registration requirements for warranty activation
• Approved installer network (if applicable)
• Availability of service and spare parts
• Technical support contact details

Recommended Service Schedule:

• Monthly: Clean air filter, check clearances, verify water flow
• Annually: Professional service including refrigerant check, electrical inspection, deep clean
• Seasonally: Winterization (if closing pool) or spring start-up inspection

Ready to Transform Your Pool Experience? 🌊

The VBIV All-Season Full Inverter H8 29kW represents the pinnacle of swimming pool heating technology—combining exceptional efficiency, whisper-quiet operation, and intelligent control in a premium package. With the ability to extend your swimming season from March through November, this heat pump delivers outstanding value through dramatically reduced running costs compared to traditional heating methods.

What You Get: ✅ 29kW heating capacity for pools 45-100m³ ✅ Premium Mitsubishi inverter compressor ✅ 5″ full-colour touchscreen controller ✅ WiFi module for smartphone control ✅ Winter protective cover ✅ Heat tracing for cold weather protection ✅ Energy rating A+ for maximum efficiency ✅ Ultra-quiet 28dB(A) ECO Silence mode

Perfect For:

• Medium to large residential outdoor swimming pools
• Pool owners seeking maximum energy efficiency
• Those wanting extended swimming seasons (8-9 months)
• Quiet operation requirements (residential areas)
• Smart home integration and remote control
• Indoor pool heating applications (contact for details)

Investment Protection: With running costs 50-70% lower than gas heating and 80%+ lower than electric heating, this heat pump typically pays for itself within 2-3 years while providing a decade or more of reliable service.