A pool heat pump moves heat from the outside air into your pool water, using far less energy per degree than a gas heater. Around Kingston it adds several weeks of comfortable swimming in spring and fall. Limitless Pools sizes, installs and registers Madimack inverter heat pumps, and winterizes them at every closing.
What size heat pump do I need?
Heat pump size depends mostly on your pool's surface area, how many degrees you want to add, and whether you cover the pool at night. A covered 16 x 32 ft pool kept warm from late May to mid September usually needs around 70,000 to 90,000 BTU/h. Uncovered pools or longer seasons need more.
Heat pump size estimator
A planning estimate using surface area, the temperature rise for your season and cover use. We confirm size on site with your plumbing, wind exposure and breaker capacity.
Heat pump vs gas heater
| Heat pump | Gas heater | |
|---|---|---|
| Running cost | Lower per degree | Higher per degree |
| Heating speed | Steady, works best kept running | Fast, good for occasional use |
| Cold nights | Output drops as air cools | Unaffected by air temperature |
| Fuel | Electricity only | Natural gas or propane line needed |
| Best for | Pools used most days, May to September | Weekend pools, spas, very cold shoulder seasons |
Most owners near Kingston who swim most days choose a heat pump and a solar cover. Planning a full equipment upgrade? See all our pool equipment services.
How much does a pool heat pump cost to run?
Running cost depends on your electricity rate, how warm you keep the water and whether you use a cover. An inverter heat pump slows its compressor as the pool reaches temperature, so it uses less power than older on-off units. A night-time solar cover is the biggest saving, because most heat leaves through the surface.
For general advice on energy-efficient equipment, see Natural Resources Canada energy efficiency.
Why we recommend Madimack heat pumps
Madimack heat pumps bought on or after October 1, 2026 carry 6 years of parts and on-site labour and 25 years on the heat exchanger, and we register the warranty for you. Details are on our Madimack dealer page. We also service other brands of heat pump and gas heater.
Pool heat pump questions
Does a pool heat pump work in Ontario?
Yes, from late spring to early fall. Heat pumps lose output as the air gets colder, so they work best kept running with a cover at night rather than switched on for a cold weekend.
How long does a heat pump take to heat a pool?
A correctly sized heat pump usually adds about 0.5 to 1 degree Celsius a day to a covered pool in spring, so start it a few days before you want to swim.
Do I need an electrician for a heat pump?
Most heat pumps need a dedicated circuit. We check your panel at the site visit and include any electrical work in the quote.
Should I winterize my heat pump?
Yes. Water left in a heat pump can freeze and crack the heat exchanger, and freeze damage from improper winterization is excluded from manufacturer warranties. We winterize heat pumps at every closing.
Last updated by the Limitless Pools service team. Questions? Contact us.