How to Install an EcoCube™ External Heat Pump for Your Spa: A Comprehensive Guide 2024

Are you looking to enhance your spa experience with efficient heating? Installing a SpaNet™ EcoCube™ external heat pump can significantly improve your spa's energy efficiency and performance.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of installing an EcoCube™ heat pump for your spa or swim spa in 2024.

Key takeaways:

• Learn step-by-step EcoCube™ heat pump installation for spas and swim spas
• Understand heat pump sizing for different spa volumes
• Discover pre-installation requirements and considerations
• Get expert tips on proper placement and clearance for optimal performance

Important reminders: A licensed electrician must carry out all electrical work on your spa. Any electrical information included here, whether it is troubleshooting or other instructions, is provided for use by a licensed electrician only. Local electrical codes supersede any information found here.

If you've acquired a heat pump from another retailer, please consult them for installation advice. Click the relevant button below to access the SpaNet^® EcoCube™ Heat Pump manual for detailed information and instructions.

What is an EcoCube™ Heat Pump?

The SpaNet™ EcoCube™ is a compact, energy-efficient heat pump designed specifically for heating and cooling of small to medium-sized spa pools. It's part of the SpaNet^® line of heat pumps, known for their reliability and performance. The EcoCube™ heat pump is available in 3.3kW (CHP-33) and 5.5kW (CHP-55) models.

It uses eco-friendly refrigerant and a titanium heat exchanger to transfer heat between the air and water, potentially reducing heating costs by up to 75%.

Click the button below to learn more about EcoCube™.

Before You Begin: Gather the following items from your EcoCube™ kit:

• Two 5-meter hoses (one with a pump union, one with a heater union)
• Two hose clamps for connecting to the EcoCube™
• One AMP Splitter cable (if needed)
• Two 1.5m sections of lagging

You'll also need these tools (not included in the kit):

• Cordless drill
• 12mm drill bit
• 50mm hole saw

Comprehensive EcoCube™ Installation Guide

This guide provides essential information for both spa owners and professional installers on preparing for and installing the EcoCube™ heat pump. Follow these steps to ensure a proper and efficient installation.

Site Preparation

1. Select the heat pump location:

• Choose an outdoor location with good air circulation.
• EcoCube™ is designed for back-to-back installation but can be placed up 3 meters from the spa controller if needed.
• It cannot be placed more than one meter above or below the base of the spa.
• Keep away from vegetation and obstacles.

2. Prepare the foundation:

• Create a flat, sturdy base using concrete or properly installed concrete pavers.
• Consider extending the main spa pad for the heat pump.
• If you are installing the electrical wiring and plumbing for your heat pump in a trench, there are a number of things you must consider.

For information on installing a heat pump below ground or in a trench, click the button below.

3. Plan for drainage:

• Prepare the area beneath the heat pump to handle condensation.
• Arrange plumbing to connect the condensate to a suitable discharge location.
• Note: Condensate plumbing is the owner's responsibility and must comply with local/state guidelines. Spa World cannot connect or plumb discharge of condensate drains, this must be done in compliance with local &/or state guidelines.

4. Ensure proper clearances:

• Allow 120mm clearance at the back
• Allow 300mm and 500mm on each inlet
• Maintain 2 meters from the air outlet

See the manufacturer’s image below for an example:

Consult the manufacturer's guidelines for specific clearance requirements or your heat pump model.

5. Consider safety barriers:

• For installations beyond the fenced pool area:

• Establish a non-climbable zone of at least 900mm from the fence top to the nearest part of the heat pump.
• Maintain a minimum clearance of 500mm at ground level between the fence and the heat pump.

• Review and comply with local safety barrier regulations.

6. Prepare for power and data connections:

• Ensure a sufficient length of power and data cables to connect the heat pump to the spa controller.
• Note: The EcoCube™ comes with a 5m power cable and data cable.

7. Clear the installation area:

• Remove any obstructions or debris from the chosen location.

Installation Process

1. Ensure safety:

• Turn off the spa's power at the main circuit breaker.
• Verify no power to the spa using appropriate testing equipment

2. Position the heat pump:

• Place on the prepared foundation, ensuring it's level and stable.
• Ideally, install directly adjacent to the spa cabinet for a back-to-back setup.
• If installing further away:
• Additional hose may be required (purchased separately).
• Avoid extending beyond 3 meters or above/below the spa base by more than one meter.
• An electrician will be needed for electrical/data connections beyond 3m from the spa control box.

3. Install condensation drain:

• This is the owner's responsibility and must comply with local guidelines.

4. Connect water pipes:

• Install 32/38mm hose connectors onto heat pump inlet and outlet ports.
• Connect flexible pipes to hose connectors, ensuring they're pushed past O-rings.
• Secure connections with hose clamps.
• Insulate all external pipework to prevent heat loss and UV damage.

5. Plumb the heat pump:

• Connect pump outlet hose to bottom inlet of heat pump.
• Connect heater inlet hose from top outlet of heat pump back to spa.
• Ensure proper flow direction: out from spa → bottom of heat pump → top of heat pump → return to spa.
• Lagging should be applied to all pipework, including sections running through the cabinet, to maintain efficiency and prevent heat loss. This is the owner's responsibility.

6. Install bypass valve (if using a 2-speed pump):

• Set to 60% closed / 40% open to limit water flow in high speed.

7. Connect power and data cables:

• Connect power cable to a 230V outlet on the SV Series spa controller.
• Connect data cable to the EXP2 port on the spa controller.
• Ensure cables are properly separated.

8. Fill the spa and bleed air from the system:

• Fill through the filter box to flood pipework and reduce airlocks.
• Bleed remaining air by loosening appropriate couplings.

9. Configure spa controller settings:

• Set H.PMP (Heat Pump Operation Mode) to HEAT or AUTO as desired.
• Adjust H.ELE (Heat Pump + Electric Element Boost) if additional heating is required.

10. Test the system:

• Run filtration pump and check for proper water flow and leaks.
• Verify heat pump operation and temperature control via spa side keypad.

By following these steps and guidelines, you'll ensure a proper installation of your EcoCube™ heat pump, avoiding additional costs and delays.

Remember: These guidelines are subject to change. Always consult your heat pump's manual and local regulations for the most current and accurate information.

Spa World's Professional Heat Pump Installation Service

At Spa World, we understand that installing a heat pump for your spa can be a complex process. That's why we offer a professional installation service to ensure your SpaNet™ EcoCube™ heat pump is set up correctly and efficiently. This service is available to customers located within 75km of a Spa World showroom.

Why Choose Our Installation Service?

• Expert Technicians: Our team is fully trained and experienced in installing SpaNet heat pumps.
• Compliance Guaranteed: We ensure all installations meet manufacturer specifications.
• Optimal Performance: Proper installation is key to maximizing the efficiency and lifespan of your heat pump.
• Peace of Mind: Our service includes full testing and demonstration of your new heat pump system.

What's Included?

1. Professional installation by trained technicians
2. Final plumbing and electrical connections (plug-in only) to the heat pump
3. System setup and testing
4. Basic operation instructions

Benefits:

• Ensures correct installation for maximum efficiency
• Saves you time and potential hassle
• Provides peace of mind

What’s not included?

• Our standard installation service is comprehensive, but certain tasks fall outside the scope of what we provide:

We do not do:

• Site Preparation: The spa owner is responsible for preparing the site where the heat pump will be installed, including creating a stable foundation.
• Extended Plumbing or Electrical Work: We do not cover extensive plumbing or electrical modifications beyond the immediate connection of the heat pump. A licensed plumber or electrician must handle any additional plumbing runs or electrical supply installations.
• Insulation and Lagging of Pipes: While we connect the pipes, insulation and lagging of pipework are not included. However, it is highly recommended to insulate pipes to improve energy efficiency and protect them from weather conditions.
• Condensate Drain Plumbing: Spa World technicians do not install the condensate drain or handle the connection of condensate drains to external drainage systems. The homeowner must arrange for this separately.

How to Book

Contact Spa World today to schedule your professional heat pump installation or to get a personalised quote.

Contact Us for Installation

Remember, proper installation is crucial for the optimal performance and longevity of your SpaNet™ EcoCube™ heat pump. While DIY installation is possible for those with the necessary skills, professional installation ensures your system is set up correctly from the start.

Winterising Your Heat Pump

In areas prone to freezing conditions, proper winterisation is essential to protect your EcoCube™:

• If temperatures consistently fall below -2°C, drain all water from the heat pump.
• Follow the detailed winterising instructions in the manual to prevent freeze damage.
• Remember, freeze damage is not covered under the product warranty.

For complete details on these topics, always refer to your EcoCube™ heat pump manual. Following these guidelines will help ensure safe operation and longevity of your heat pump.

Compatibility of Purezone™ Filters with Hybrid Heat Pumps

Purezone™ filters are not recommended for use with hybrid heat pumps in spa systems due to water flow restrictions. By using the appropriate filters, you can ensure the proper functioning of both your spa and hybrid heat pump system.

In conclusion

Installing a SpaNet™ EcoCube™ heat pump enhances your spa experience while improving energy efficiency. This guide has outlined key steps for both spa owners and professional installers.

Key points to remember:

• Proper site preparation is crucial
• Always prioritise safety, including turning off power before installation
• Professional installation offers expert setup and peace of mind
• Correct positioning, plumbing, and electrical connections are essential
• Post-installation testing ensures optimal performance

Remember these important points:

• Spa owners are responsible for site preparation and ensuring the spa is ready for heat pump installation
• Professional installers must follow all safety protocols and manufacturer specifications
• Proper clearances and drainage are vital for the heat pump's efficiency and longevity
• Spa World offers a comprehensive professional installation service for those who prefer expert assistance

Whether you're considering DIY or professional installation, understanding this process is vital for maximizing your heat pump's benefits.

Need more help?

Ready to upgrade your spa experience with an EcoCube™ heat pump? Have questions about the installation process? Spa World is here to help. Contact Spa World Today Our experts can provide advice, answer questions, and schedule professional installation. Take the first step towards year-round spa comfort and efficiency.