Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, and many homeowners choose to do exactly that. Removing old solar pool heating frees up valuable roof space for solar PV panels, allowing you to generate electricity that can help offset the running costs of your new pool heat pump and other household appliances.

We generally recommend installing the pool heat pump before the solar PV installation. This allows us to properly decommission the existing solar heating pipework and complete all necessary plumbing work before the solar installers begin, making the overall installation process smoother and more efficient.

No, when carried out correctly. The rooftop solar heating collectors (mats) and associated pipework should be removed carefully to minimise the risk of damage. Any roof penetrations should be professionally sealed to maintain the roof’s weatherproofing. If you’re replacing the solar heating with solar PV panels, the solar installation company will typically remove the existing solar heating as part of preparing the roof for the new panels.

Yes. In many cases, the existing underground solar heating pipework can remain in place. If your new pool heat pump is connected to the main filtration system, we’ll decommission the pipework leading to the roof, remove the dedicated solar heating pump (if no longer required), and securely cap the existing plumbing. This preserves the pipework. This also means the dedicated heating circuit may be available if you decide to upgrade or replace your pool heating system in the future while avoiding unnecessary excavation or disruption to your property.

In many cases, yes. If your solar heating system has a dedicated pump, it may be suitable for reuse. During our inspection, we’ll check the pump’s condition, performance and water flow to ensure it meets the manufacturer’s requirements for the selected pool heat pump.

The cost of converting from solar pool heating to a pool heat pump typically ranges from $5,500 to $13,500, depending on the size of the heat pump, whether the existing plumbing can be reused, electrical requirements and any additional upgrades. Following a site inspection, we’ll provide a fixed quotation tailored to your pool.

Both have advantages, but homeowners wanting greater temperature control and a longer swimming season generally prefer a modern inverter pool heat pump. Learn more in our guide comparing pool heat pumps vs solar pool heating.

Yes. Heat pumps extract heat from the surrounding air and continue operating without direct sunlight.

Not immediately. During the pool heat pump installation, we decommission the existing solar heating pipework that runs to the roof and connect the new heat pump to the appropriate plumbing. If you’re planning to install rooftop solar PV panels, the solar installation company will typically remove the old solar pool heating collectors (mats) as part of their preparation for the new solar panel installation.

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.

Often yes, provided they are in good condition and suitable for the new installation.

Yes. Many homeowners replace ageing rooftop solar heating systems with pool heat pumps to achieve more consistent water temperatures and a longer swimming season.

No. Commercial chiller systems typically require dedicated electrical circuits, plumbing integration and professional commissioning.

Yes. Many existing plunge pools can be retrofitted with a commercial chiller system.

Yes. Relevant Air supplies, installs and commissions complete recovery chiller systems.

Yes. We offer ongoing maintenance and support to ensure reliable long-term operation.

Cooling time depends on water volume, ambient conditions and system capacity. We provide detailed performance calculations during the design process.

Our commercial chiller systems can maintain temperatures suitable for cold plunge and recovery applications, with operating temperatures as low as 8°C.

Yes. Pool heat pumps are designed to operate in winter conditions, allowing you to extend your swimming season and enjoy a warmer pool for longer. Because heating performance decreases as temperatures drop, choosing the correct-sized heat pump is critical. Speak with our team and we’ll recommend the ideal solution for your pool and climate.

Maintaining your pool temperature is usually more economical than repeatedly heating a cold pool from scratch. However, a pool heat pump should not be expected to run continuously 24/7. Constant operation places unnecessary stress on the unit’s mechanical components, which can shorten its life span. 

During cooler weather, the heat pump also needs time to complete its automatic defrost cycle. Frost can build up on the coils as the unit extracts heat from the air, reducing efficiency. The defrost cycle removes this ice buildup, ensuring the heat pump continues to operate effectively. Allowing the unit to cycle normally helps maximise efficiency, performance, and longevity.

Yes. In many cases, running overnight can help maintain water temperature, although heating performance may be lower during colder overnight conditions.

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your pool heating system running efficiently and preventing costly repairs. We recommend scheduling professional servicing at least once a year, preferably before the swimming season. During the service, our technicians will clean the components, check the refrigerant levels (for heat pumps), inspect the electrical connections, and ensure that all parts are functioning properly. This proactive approach helps extend the lifespan of your pool heating system and maintain optimal performance.