If your rooftop solar pool heating is no longer performing as it once did, or you are looking to replace ageing solar collector panels, you have options. Many Australian homeowners are now replacing rooftop solar pool heating with modern inverter pool heat pumps to enjoy more reliable heating, longer swimming seasons and lower maintenance. In many cases the existing plumbing can even be reused, which helps reduce installation costs.
Why are homeowners replacing solar pool heating?
Traditional rooftop solar pool heating performs well during hot, sunny weather but becomes far less effective during cloudy conditions and the cooler months. As systems age, the rubber collector mats can deteriorate, roofs may require maintenance, and many homeowners choose to reclaim valuable roof space for solar PV panels. A modern inverter pool heat pump provides consistent, energy-efficient heating day and night while maintaining your chosen pool temperature.
Can I replace solar pool heating with a pool heat pump?
Yes. In most cases, an existing solar pool heating system can be replaced with an electric inverter pool heat pump. The installation involves assessing the current plumbing, equipment location, electrical requirements and pool size before recommending the most suitable heat pump.
Can the existing plumbing be reused?
In many installations the existing solar heating plumbing can be reused, provided it is in good condition, correctly sized and capable of delivering the required water flow. Reusing existing pipework can reduce installation costs, minimise excavation and speed up the installation process.
Every property is different. A professional site inspection is required to determine whether the existing plumbing, valves and circulation system are suitable for reuse, and whether any modifications are required.
What are the benefits of converting?
- Reliable heating regardless of sunshine
- Longer swimming season
- Precise temperature control
- Opportunity to install rooftop solar PV
- Lower maintenance than ageing rooftop solar collectors
- Potentially lower installation costs if existing plumbing can be reused
What happens to the rooftop solar heating?
The rooftop collectors are usually decommissioned and removed once the new heat pump is installed. Many homeowners take this opportunity to install solar PV panels on the freed roof space to help offset the running costs of the heat pump.
We generally recommend installing the pool heat pump before the rooftop solar heating is removed. This allows us to properly decommission the existing pipework and prepare the plumbing before the solar installers begin work.
Can I use my existing solar pump?
If your existing solar heating system has a dedicated pump, it may be suitable for reuse. During the site inspection, the pump condition, performance and water flow should be checked against the heat pump manufacturer’s requirements.
How much does it cost?
The cost of replacing rooftop solar heating with an inverter pool heat pump typically ranges from $5,500 to $13,500, depending on:
- Pool size
- Heat pump capacity
- Electrical requirements
- Plumbing modifications
- Whether existing solar plumbing can be reused
How much does a pool heat pump cost to run?
Modern inverter pool heat pumps are one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat a swimming pool. Unlike traditional electric heaters, inverter heat pumps automatically adjust their output to maintain your desired water temperature, helping to minimise electricity consumption. Pairing an efficient heat pump with other energy-saving measures around the pool, such as a variable-speed filtration pump and a fitted cover, brings running costs down further.
Using the 28kW Rheem RPH028 Compact Inverter Pool Heat Pump as an example, the unit’s power draw varies with heating demand and operating conditions. During milder weather, or once your pool has reached the desired temperature, the heat pump will typically run at a much lower output, reducing energy usage.
If your home has rooftop solar PV, the heat pump can use the electricity generated by your solar system before drawing power from the grid. This can significantly reduce running costs, particularly when the heat pump is programmed to operate during daylight hours when solar production is at its highest.
Pairing a pool heat pump with rooftop solar provides consistent pool heating while helping to keep ongoing electricity costs to a minimum. A well-fitting pool cover further reduces heat loss and running costs by limiting evaporation.
Swimming season
Traditional rooftop solar pool heating relies on sunshine, so its performance is heavily influenced by the weather, the time of year, and the number of daylight hours available. During extended periods of cloud cover, or throughout the cooler months, it may struggle to maintain comfortable swimming temperatures.
A properly sized inverter pool heat pump provides far greater flexibility by maintaining your chosen water temperature regardless of sunshine. This can extend your swimming season from early spring through late autumn, and many Sydney homeowners enjoy comfortable swimming for much of the year. For even greater energy savings, a pool heat pump can be paired with rooftop solar PV, allowing it to use the electricity generated by your solar system during the day.
Solar pool heating vs inverter heat pump
| Solar pool heating | Inverter heat pump |
|---|---|
| ✗ Depends on sunshine | ✓ Works day and night |
| ✗ Weather dependent | ✓ Consistent heating |
| ✗ Limited temperature control | ✓ Precise temperature control |
| ✗ Roof mounted | ✓ Ground mounted |
| ✗ Can deteriorate with age | ✓ Long service life |
| ✗ Does not heat on cloudy days | ✓ Heats regardless of weather |
