Glacier vs TropiCool Pros/Cons & Cost to Run

[deanZ]

Houston area. I'm looking for something to cool my pool down to between 86-88 in the summer. From what I have read, both the Glacier (Evaporator) and TropiCool (HeatPump) would be able to get to my target range. Here is where my head is at... I'm at bit at an impasse as to which direction to go. I'm leaning toward the TropiCool but the expense to run it worries me.

Glacier

• Very cheap to run. Only run at night (running during the day when it is hot out defeats the purpose)
• Slightly cheaper than the TropiCool to get installed
• Can get to my target range most of the summer but will likely struggle in Aug when it is 105 and very humid outside.
• Very Loud?
• Ugly and big (but will be hidden so I guess it doesn't matter)

AquaCal TropiCool

• Can be expensive to run since it is basically an AC Condensor? How much though... haven't been able to gauge this.
  • Do you only run it at night like the Glacier or 24/7?
• Can maintain my target temp even when it is 105 out (provided I maintain the temp... if I let the pool go to 96 then it might struggle getting it back down)
  • Can can get colder than the Glacier if desired but I don't really need it colder than 85/86.
• Slightly quieter than the Glacier?
• Large but not as big/ugly as the Glacier
• Can also use it as a heater to extend the swimming season in the fall/spring. I already have a gas heater to get the spa (and pool if desired) up quickly. But, using that is too expensive to keep the pool at 88. The heatpump can maintain 88 more efficiently (though, not as quickly as the gas heater if I let the spa/pool get too cold).

 

[HermanTX]

You have been very thoughtful in your evaluation.
If you plan to use the TropiCool in the winter to maintain your pool at 88 degrees it is best to have a cover at night or it will be on constantly.