A swimming pool heat pump is one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to maintain comfortable water temperatures, especially for facilities that rely on year-round pool use. When Living Springs in Governors’ Bay needed to replace an ageing pool heating system, they turned to the team at New Zealand Heat Pumps to deliver a reliable, energy-efficient solution built to perform in Canterbury conditions.
In this case study, we take a closer look at how we upgraded Living Springs’ pool heating with a new swimming pool heat pump, the challenges involved, and how the right system selection and installation now provide long-term comfort, efficiency, and reliability for this well-used facility.
About Living Springs, Governors’ Bay
Nestled in Governors’ Bay, surrounded by rolling hills, native bush, and farmland, Living Springs is a well-known event, function, and activity centre in Canterbury. Managed by a charitable not-for-profit trust, Living Springs provides a welcoming retreat for school groups, corporate functions, community events, and special occasions.

With a strong focus on sustainability, comfort, and year-round usability, maintaining reliable facilities, including their swimming pool, is essential to the experience they offer guests.
The Challenge: Replacing an Ageing Pool Heat Pump
After more than 22 years of reliable service, the existing swimming pool heat pump at Living Springs had reached the end of its lifespan. The compressor had deteriorated over time and was no longer functional, meaning the system could no longer efficiently heat the pool.
For a high-use facility like Living Springs, this created a clear challenge:
- The pool needed to be heated reliably and consistently
- Energy efficiency was a priority to help manage long-term operating costs
- The replacement system had to perform well in cooler Canterbury conditions
That’s when the team at New Zealand Heat Pumps Christchurch were called in to assess the site and recommend a suitable solution.
Our Solution: Installing a 25 kW Swimming Pool Heat Pump
After reviewing the pool size, usage requirements, and site conditions, we recommended upgrading to a 25 kW Swimming Pool Heat Pump – a powerful, energy-efficient solution designed to deliver excellent performance even in colder climates.
Why this swimming pool heat pump was the right fit:
- High heating output suitable for a busy commercial facility
- 5-star energy rating for lower running costs
- Excellent cold-climate performance, ideal for Canterbury conditions
- Reliable operation to support year-round pool use
The Installation Process
Our team began by removing the existing heat pump unit, along with replacing associated valves and pipework where required to ensure compatibility with the new system.
Once the new swimming pool heat pump was installed:
- Pipework was reconnected and tested
- Controls were set up for easy operation
- The surrounding area was tidied, leaving a clean and professional finish
The new unit was then commissioned and quickly got to work, restoring reliable pool heating for Living Springs.
Key Features of the New Swimming Pool Heat Pump
The upgraded system doesn’t just deliver heat, it provides control, safety, and efficiency, making it ideal for a high-use facility.
Stand-out features include:
- Touch screen display for easy temperature control and monitoring
- 5-star energy efficiency, helping reduce ongoing power costs
- Dual safety protection, including:
- Built-in low-pressure cut-out
- Automatic shutdown when pool filtration systems are turned off
- Fast heat-up times, so the pool reaches temperature efficiently
These features ensure the pool remains comfortable, safe, and cost-effective to operate.
Why Swimming Pool Heat Pumps Are Growing in Popularity
Swimming pool heat pumps have become increasingly popular across Canterbury, and we’re seeing a steady rise in enquiries for both residential and commercial applications.
That’s because they offer:
- Energy-efficient pool heating
- Lower running costs compared to traditional heating methods
- Extended swimming seasons, even during cooler months
- A more sustainable way to enjoy a pool year-round
For facilities like Living Springs, this means greater usability, improved guest experience, and long-term savings.
A Long-Term Investment in Comfort and Efficiency
At New Zealand Heat Pumps, we’re proud to support organisations like Living Springs with reliable, energy-efficient heating solutions. With their new swimming pool heat pump in place, Living Springs can look forward to years of enjoyment, reduced energy costs, and dependable pool heating for their guests.
If you’re considering upgrading or installing a swimming pool heat pump or hot water heat pumps in Canterbury, our experienced team is here to help – from assessment and recommendation through to professional installation. Contact us to discuss an energy-efficient solution tailored to your pool.







