Spa Heat Pumps
Buying Guide
Spa Heat Pumps Australia — Cut Heating Costs by Up to 70%
A heat pump is the most cost-effective way to heat a spa pool or swim spa. Instead of using an electric element to generate heat directly, a heat pump extracts warmth from the surrounding air and transfers it into the water — using roughly 70 percent less electricity to achieve the same temperature. For a spa that gets regular use, a heat pump pays for itself through reduced power bills.
How a Spa Heat Pump Works
A spa heat pump works on the same principle as a reverse-cycle air conditioner. It draws in ambient air, extracts heat energy from it, and transfers that heat into the spa water. Because it moves existing heat rather than generating it from scratch, a heat pump produces significantly more heating output per unit of electricity consumed compared to a standard electric element.
In practical terms, for every 1 kilowatt of electricity used, a heat pump can deliver 4 to 5 kilowatts of heat into the water. On a standard electric element, 1 kilowatt in equals 1 kilowatt of heat. The difference in running costs over a full year is meaningful, particularly for swim spas which hold significantly more water than a standard spa pool.
Is a Heat Pump Worth Adding to Your Spa?
ThermaSmart Spa Heat Pump
Our ThermaSmart model is designed for swim spas and larger spa pools. It keeps water warm even in cooler climates, allowing year-round use without high heating costs. The ThermaSmart integrates with your spa's existing control system and WiFi control is available — the Connect and Control Heat Pump WiFi guide is on our Manuals page.
Heat Pump Relay
A heat pump relay is required when connecting a heat pump to spas that use the Balboa control system. It allows the spa controller to communicate with and manage the heat pump as part of the integrated system. If your spa uses a Balboa controller and you are adding a heat pump, a relay is typically required alongside the heat pump unit itself. Call 1300 185 338 if you are unsure whether a relay is needed for your model.
Installation
Heat pump installation must be completed by a licensed electrician. The unit needs to be positioned within a few metres of the spa, connected to the spa's control system, and wired to an appropriate power supply. Installation is a straightforward job for a qualified tradesperson. We can recommend electricians in most capital cities — call 1300 185 338 for assistance.
