🌊 V-PAC 12 Top Outlet Inverter Heat Pump 12kW | Extended Summer Season | Single Phase

Why Choose the V-PAC 12 Heat Pump? ✨

Transform your swimming pool or hot tub experience with the V-PAC 12 inverter heat pump – the intelligent heating solution designed specifically for the UK climate. Unlike traditional on/off heat pumps that waste energy, this advanced inverter system continuously adjusts its power to match your exact heating needs, delivering exceptional efficiency and whisper-quiet operation throughout the extended summer season.

British-engineered by Dantherm, the V-PAC 12 combines cutting-edge technology with practical design. Its compact footprint complies with permitted development rights, while the eco-friendly R32 refrigerant ensures you’re making an environmentally responsible choice. With an industry-leading 5-year comprehensive on-site warranty covering both parts and labour, you’re investing in peace of mind alongside superior performance.

Perfect For:

• Outdoor swimming pools (up to 50m³)
• Hot tubs and spa pools requiring consistent temperatures
• Extended season heating (April to October)
• Homes requiring quiet operation near neighbours
• Eco-conscious pool owners wanting to reduce running costs

🎯 Key Benefits That Make a Real Difference

💰 Dramatically Lower Running Costs The intelligent inverter technology modulates compressor speed based on demand, using only the energy needed at any moment. This delivers average COPs (Coefficient of Performance) exceeding 8.7, meaning you get over 8.7 times more heating energy than the electricity consumed. Compared to traditional electric heaters, you could save hundreds of pounds annually.

🔇 Whisper-Quiet Operation Enjoy your pool without noise disruption. The V-PAC 12’s ‘Whisper Mode’ reduces sound levels by 9-11 dB(A) compared to standard heat pumps – that’s roughly half as loud to the human ear. Your neighbours will thank you, and you’ll enjoy peaceful pool time.

🌍 Environmentally Responsible Heating The R32 refrigerant has a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than older refrigerants, making this heat pump fully F-Gas compliant. You’re heating your pool while minimizing environmental impact.

⚙️ Smooth, Reliable Performance Say goodbye to the jarring startup surges of traditional heat pumps. Inverter technology eliminates disruptive inrush currents, resulting in gentler operation that’s easier on your electrical system and extends component lifespan.

📐 Space-Saving Design The compact ABS casing features a small footprint that fits easily in most outdoor spaces. The top outlet configuration provides flexible installation options, and the unit complies with permitted development regulations.

🌡️ Versatile Multi-Function Capability Switch between heating modes to suit your needs:

• Heat Only – Pure heating power for colder days
• Heat/Cool – Maintain perfect temperature year-round
• Cool Only – Refresh overheated water during hot spells

📥 Downloads & Technical Documentation

📄 V-PAC 12 Product Leaflet [(opens in new tab)] Complete specification sheet with technical data, dimensions, and performance curves. Essential for planning your installation.

📄 V-PAC Installation & Maintenance Manual [(opens in new tab)] Comprehensive installation guide covering positioning, electrical connections, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance requirements. Reference: Document 1005759 (V-PAC VPT 12, 16, 22 Owner/Installation Manual).

Note: Please contact Parts4Tubs directly if you need assistance accessing these documents.

📊 Complete Technical Specifications

Specification	Detail
Model Number	VPT12ALX
Heat Pump Type	Top outlet inverter
Power Supply	Single-phase (230V)
Heating Capacity	12 kW (nominal)
Operating Season	Extended summer (April-October)
Refrigerant Type	R32 (Low GWP, F-Gas compliant)
Average COP	>8.7 (exceptional efficiency)
Casing Material	Durable ABS plastic
Outlet Configuration	Top outlet (vertical discharge)
Noise Level	Ultra-quiet with Whisper Mode
Noise Reduction	9-11 dB(A) vs. standard heat pumps
Control Features	Multi-function (heat/cool/heat only)
Warranty	5 years comprehensive (parts & labour, on-site)
Design Origin	British-engineered by Dantherm
Compliance	Permitted development rights compliant

Electrical Specifications

Parameter	Value
Voltage	230V single-phase
Frequency	50Hz
Connection Type	Hardwired (qualified electrician required)
Electrical Protection	RCD protection required

Physical Dimensions & Weight

Measurement	Specification
Installation Type	Outdoor ground-mounted
Footprint	Compact (space-efficient design)
Weight	Suitable for standard concrete base
Clearance Required	Minimum 50cm all sides for airflow

For exact dimensions, please consult the product leaflet or installation manual.

🏊 Pool Sizing Guide – Find Your Perfect Match

Choosing the right heat pump capacity is crucial for efficient heating. The V-PAC 12 is ideal for:

Recommended Pool Volumes

Pool Volume	Suitability	Heat-Up Performance
20-30m³	✅ Excellent	Fast heating, optimal efficiency
30-40m³	✅ Very Good	Good heating speed, efficient operation
40-50m³	✅ Good	Adequate heating, extended runtime
50m³+	⚠️ Marginal	Consider VPT16ALX or VPT22ALX

💡 Pro Tip: Pool volume (m³) = Length (m) × Width (m) × Average Depth (m)

Example: A pool measuring 8m × 4m × 1.5m = 48m³ pool volume

⏱️ Estimated Heat-Up Times

Understanding how quickly your pool will heat helps you plan usage and manage expectations. These estimates use the proven formula for swimming pool heating:

Heat-Up Time (hours) = (Pool Volume m³ × Temperature Rise °C × 1.16) ÷ Heat Pump kW Rating

Heat-Up Time Table (V-PAC 12 – 12kW)

Pool Volume	5°C Rise	10°C Rise	15°C Rise
20m³	~10 hours	~19 hours	~29 hours
30m³	~14 hours	~29 hours	~44 hours
40m³	~19 hours	~39 hours	~58 hours
50m³	~24 hours	~48 hours	~73 hours

Real-World Example Scenarios

Scenario 1: Weekend Pool Preparation

• Pool: 30m³ (typical family pool)
• Starting temp: 16°C
• Target temp: 26°C (rise of 10°C)
• Estimated time: ~29 hours
• Start heating Friday evening, ready Sunday afternoon

Scenario 2: Seasonal Opening

• Pool: 40m³ (larger residential pool)
• Starting temp: 12°C
• Target temp: 24°C (rise of 12°C)
• Estimated time: ~46 hours
• Plan 2 days for initial seasonal heating

⚠️ Important Disclaimers:

• These are theoretical estimates based on ideal conditions
• Actual times vary based on: ambient air temperature, wind exposure, pool insulation, pool cover usage, and water evaporation
• Heat pumps work more efficiently in warmer ambient air (15°C+)
• Always use a pool cover when not swimming to retain heat and reduce heating time by 30-50%
• Heating efficiency decreases significantly below 10°C ambient temperature

💷 Running Cost Comparison – See the Savings

Based on average UK electricity rates (£0.30/kWh) and typical heating requirements:

Annual Operating Cost Estimates (40m³ Pool, Extended Season)

Heating Method	Avg. Cost/Hour	Season Cost	Annual Saving vs. Electric
V-PAC 12 Heat Pump	£0.41	£350-450	–
Traditional Electric Heater	£3.60	£3,000+	Save £2,550+
Gas Boiler	£1.20	£1,000-1,200	Save £600+
Oil Heater	£1.50	£1,250-1,500	Save £850+

💡 Calculation Basis: Heat pump at COP 8.7 consumes approximately 1.38kW to deliver 12kW heating = £0.41/hour

These are illustrative estimates. Actual costs depend on electricity rates, usage patterns, and weather conditions.

🔧 Installation & Placement Requirements

Essential Installation Guidelines

Clearance Requirements:

• Minimum 50cm clearance on all sides for adequate airflow
• Avoid enclosed spaces – heat pumps need fresh air circulation
• Position away from obstacles that could obstruct airflow (walls, fences, dense vegetation)

Distance from Pool:

• Minimum 3.5 meters from pool edge (UK electrical safety regulations)
• Ideally 5-10 meters for optimal operation
• Shorter pipe runs = less heat loss

Ideal Placement:

• Well-ventilated outdoor area
• Protected from prevailing winds when possible
• Away from bedroom windows (yours and neighbours’)
• On solid, level concrete base
• Near to pool equipment for easier plumbing integration

Electrical Requirements:

• Must be installed by qualified electrician
• Dedicated circuit with RCD protection
• Single-phase 230V supply
• Consult manual for specific cable sizing

Sound Considerations: Even though the V-PAC 12 is exceptionally quiet, thoughtful placement further minimizes any noise impact:

• Avoid corners or alcoves that could amplify sound
• Consider distance to neighbour boundaries
• Use landscaping (bushes, walls) to provide sound barriers if needed

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What pool sizes is the V-PAC 12 suitable for? A: The VPT12ALX works best with pools between 20-50m³. For pools above 50m³, consider the VPT16ALX (16kW) or VPT22ALX (22kW) models for faster heating and better efficiency.

Q: Can this heat pump work in cool weather? A: The V-PAC 12 is designed for “extended summer season” operation, typically April through October. It performs optimally when ambient temperatures are above 10-15°C. Below this, heating efficiency decreases significantly. For year-round or winter heating, consider Dantherm’s all-season models.

Q: How loud is this heat pump compared to others? A: With Whisper Mode engaged, the V-PAC 12 operates 9-11 dB(A) quieter than traditional on/off heat pumps. To put this in perspective, a 10dB reduction means it sounds approximately half as loud to human ears – a substantial improvement that’s noticeable to both you and your neighbours.

Q: What does “inverter technology” actually mean for me? A: Traditional heat pumps operate like a light switch – fully on or fully off, which wastes energy and creates noise. Inverter technology is like a dimmer switch – the compressor continuously adjusts speed to match exactly what your pool needs. This means lower running costs (up to 30% savings), quieter operation, and longer equipment life.

Q: How long will it take to heat my pool initially? A: This depends on your pool size and desired temperature rise. For a typical 30m³ pool needing a 10°C temperature increase, expect approximately 29 hours. Always use a pool cover to dramatically reduce heat-up time and ongoing heat loss. Initial seasonal heating takes longer than daily top-ups.

Q: What’s included in the 5-year warranty? A: The V-PAC 12 comes with an industry-leading comprehensive warranty covering both parts AND labour for 5 years, with on-site service. Unlike many competitors who only cover parts, Dantherm covers labour costs too – potentially saving you hundreds if repairs are needed. This warranty demonstrates genuine confidence in product quality.

Q: Is R32 refrigerant safe and legal? A: Yes, absolutely. R32 is the modern standard for heat pumps because it’s significantly more environmentally friendly than older refrigerants (67% lower GWP than R410A). It’s fully compliant with F-Gas regulations and is the refrigerant of choice for new heat pump installations across Europe.

Q: Can I install this myself to save money? A: No. Heat pump installation requires qualified technicians for both plumbing and electrical work. Electrical work must be completed by a certified electrician to comply with UK regulations and maintain your warranty. Refrigerant handling requires F-Gas certification. Professional installation ensures safe, efficient operation and protects your warranty.

Q: Do I need planning permission? A: In most cases, no. The V-PAC 12 complies with permitted development rights in the UK, meaning it can typically be installed without planning permission. However, there are conditions: it must be at least 1 meter from boundaries, and there are specific rules for listed buildings or conservation areas. Check with your local planning authority if unsure.

Q: How much does it cost to run daily? A: Running costs vary by usage, but a typical scenario (maintaining temperature, not initial heating) might run 2-4 hours daily at approximately £0.41/hour, giving daily costs of £0.82-£1.64. Over an extended season, this is dramatically cheaper than electric or gas alternatives. Using a pool cover when not in use can cut these costs by 30-50%.

Q: Can this heat pump also cool my pool? A: Yes! The V-PAC 12 has multi-function capability. It can be set to heat-only, cool-only, or heat/cool mode. This is particularly useful during hot UK summers when pool temperature can exceed comfortable levels (above 28-30°C). The cooling function helps maintain ideal swimming temperatures.

Q: What maintenance does this heat pump require? A: The V-PAC 12 requires minimal maintenance: keep the air intake/outlet clear of debris and leaves, periodically clean or replace air filters, ensure adequate airflow clearance, and have an annual professional service check. The robust design and quality components mean less maintenance than cheaper alternatives.

🌟 Why Parts4Tubs for Your Heat Pump?

When you choose Parts4Tubs, you’re not just buying equipment – you’re gaining a knowledgeable partner for your pool heating needs:

✅ Expert Product Knowledge – Personal advice from experienced hot tub and pool specialists ✅ Genuine Dantherm Products – Factory-authorized dealer ensuring authentic equipment ✅ Full Technical Support – Guidance before, during, and after installation ✅ Competitive Pricing – Fair prices on premium equipment ✅ Fast Delivery – Efficient shipping across the UK ✅ Comprehensive Warranty – Full manufacturer’s 5-year coverage honored

🛒 Ready to Transform Your Pool Heating?

The V-PAC 12 inverter heat pump represents the perfect balance of performance, efficiency, and value for extended season pool heating. With its British engineering, whisper-quiet operation, and exceptional running cost savings, you’ll wonder why you didn’t upgrade sooner.

Have questions? Our team at Parts4Tubs is here to help. We’re real people who understand hot tubs and pools, and we’re always available to provide expert advice tailored to your specific situation.