Calculator Inputs
Enter pool dimensions, operating assumptions, and utility rate. This estimate uses a simplified hotel pool heating model for budgeting.
Example Data Table
| Scenario | Surface Area | Target Temp | Heater Type | Energy Price | Estimated Daily Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boutique hotel courtyard pool | 48 m² | 28°C | Heat pump, COP 4.0 | $0.18/kWh | $4.80 |
| Resort family pool | 90 m² | 29°C | Gas heater, 0.88 efficiency | $0.12/kWh | $13.95 |
| Indoor spa-style pool | 36 m² | 30°C | Electric resistance, 0.98 efficiency | $0.16/kWh | $5.42 |
Formula Used
Rectangular = length × width
Oval = π × length × width ÷ 4
Circular = π × radius²
Volume (m³) = surface area × average depth
Thermal kWh = water mass × 4.186 × temperature rise ÷ 3600
Daily thermal kWh = area × temperature gap × base loss factor × wind factor × uncovered multiplier × (1 − solar offset)
Input energy = thermal energy ÷ efficiency or COP
Cost = input energy × energy price
This model is intended for planning. Actual heating cost can vary with humidity, nighttime exposure, equipment cycling, filtration schedules, and local tariffs.
How to Use This Calculator
- Choose the pool shape and enter the dimensions in meters.
- Add the average depth to estimate water volume.
- Enter current water temperature and your target temperature.
- Use expected air temperature and wind speed values.
- Set cover hours, cover reduction, and solar offset.
- Select heater type and enter efficiency or COP.
- Enter energy price, season length, and desired heat-up time.
- Submit the form to view results, exports, and the graph.
1. What does this calculator estimate?
It estimates pool warmup energy, daily maintenance energy, heater size, and operating cost for hotel or accommodation pools using simplified thermal assumptions.
2. Why does cover usage matter so much?
A pool cover cuts evaporation and overnight heat loss. More cover hours usually reduce daily maintenance energy more than small changes in heater efficiency.
3. Should I enter boiler efficiency or heat pump COP?
Enter efficiency for gas or electric resistance systems. Enter COP for heat pumps. The calculator divides thermal demand by that performance value.
4. Are the results suitable for budgeting?
Yes, they work well for preliminary budgeting, package pricing, and comparing equipment options. Final engineering design should still verify site conditions and equipment ratings.
5. Does the calculator include solar gains?
Yes. The solar gain offset field reduces daily maintenance demand. Use a conservative percentage unless you know your pool receives strong, reliable sun exposure.
6. Why is heater size shown in kW and BTU/hr?
Many hotel teams compare equipment in different units. Showing both makes supplier quotations and internal budget discussions easier across regions.
7. Can I use this for indoor pools?
Yes. For indoor pools, enter lower wind speed and realistic room temperature. Indoor humidity control can still change real-world heat loss.
8. What is the first day total cost?
It combines the one-time heat-up cost with one day of maintenance cost. This helps during opening, reopening, or temperature reset planning.