AstralPool IHPT Top Discharge Heat Pump

A top discharge unit exhausts air upwards rather than out the side. That means it needs far less clearance around the sides, which makes it the practical choice where the plant area is tight against a fence, wall or another piece of equipment. On many Auckland properties, plant space is the constraint that decides which heat pump you can actually fit.

The range covers IHPT127 at 13kW (code 78578), IHPT168 at 17kW (code 78579) and IHPT246 at 24kW (code 78580). Broadly, 13kW suits smaller residential pools, 17kW suits standard family pools, and 24kW suits larger pools or where you want fast heat recovery. Exposure and cover use shift these figures, so we size on site.

R32 is a lower global warming potential refrigerant than older alternatives, and it also transfers heat efficiently, which supports better performance from a smaller charge. It is now the standard for new heat pump equipment in this market, so choosing R32 also means better long term parts and service support.

Considerably less on the sides than a side discharge unit, but it still needs clear space above for the discharge air and access for servicing. It cannot sit under a low deck, a solid overhang or dense foliage. We measure the plant area during the quote and confirm the unit fits before you commit to it.

Heat pumps deliver several units of heat per unit of electricity, so they are far cheaper than element heating. Your actual cost depends on target temperature, season length, site exposure and whether you run a cover. A thermal blanket typically has a bigger impact on running cost than any other single factor, and we recommend one alongside every heat pump we install.

Both are quality AstralPool units. The IHPT discharges air upward and suits confined plant areas, while the Pinnacle IHP SD discharges sideways and suits sites with room around the unit, offering six capacity options for finer sizing. In practice, your plant area layout usually decides which one is appropriate. We assess this on site.

No. A dedicated circuit installed by a registered electrician is required under New Zealand rules, and Sparkling Pools has a qualified electrician on the team. We handle plumbing, electrical and commissioning under one quote, which avoids the delays and finger pointing that come with splitting the work between trades.

Keep the air intake and fins clear of leaves, particularly in autumn, and check that condensate drains away from the unit rather than pooling under it. Keep your water balanced to protect the titanium heat exchanger. An annual service check protects both efficiency and warranty position.

A manufacturer backed warranty applies, with duration and conditions set by AstralPool and dependent on model, installation and maintenance. Your purchase is also covered by the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act. We register the warranty for you and manage any claim with the supplier so you are not chasing it yourself.

Because working out whether a top discharge or side discharge unit fits your plant area is a site decision, not a catalogue decision. We have been in Auckland plant rooms since 1992. We measure, size, install with a qualified electrician, commission and service. Call 09 570 4797 or email info@sparklingpools.co.nz.