Most orders are dispatched within 1 working day of purchase — we try our best to dispatch same day where possible.

• Standard items: Royal Mail 24 Tracked (typically 1-2 days)
• Larger items: UPS Next Day service
• Heat pumps & robotic cleaners: Delivered via specialist pallet courier. Due to their high value, we'll contact you before dispatch with an estimated delivery date and tracking information.

Cut-off times: UPS collection is typically 12:30-15:00, Royal Mail 15:00-17:45.

Yes! We offer free UK delivery on all orders to most UK postcodes. No minimum spend, no hidden charges.

We deliver to most UK postcodes including Scotland and Northern Ireland. Some remote areas (Highlands, Islands, Channel Islands) may have delivery restrictions for larger items like heat pumps. If you're unsure, please contact us before ordering and we'll confirm delivery options for your postcode.

Yes! All orders are sent with tracking. You'll receive tracking information by email once your order has been dispatched. For high-value items like heat pumps and robotic cleaners, we'll contact you directly with delivery details.

We carefully package all orders, but accidents can happen during transit. If your item arrives damaged:

1. Take photos of the damage (including packaging)
2. Email us at sales@123pools.co.uk within 48 hours
3. Keep all original packaging until the issue is resolved

We'll arrange a replacement or refund as quickly as possible.

The right heat pump depends on your pool volume and when you want to swim. Here's our quick guide:

Pool Volume	Summer Only (May-Sept)	Extended Season (Mar-Oct)
Up to 20,000L	3.1kW - 5kW Plug & Play	5kW Plug & Play
20,000 - 40,000L	Flotide A5 - A7	Flotide A7 - A10
40,000 - 60,000L	Flotide A10	Norsup P26X
60,000L+	Norsup P26X	Norsup P35X

Not sure? Get in touch with your pool dimensions and we'll recommend the perfect unit.

👉 Browse our full heat pump range

Plug & Play Heat Pumps

• Come with a standard UK 13A plug — just plug in and go
• Perfect for above-ground pools and smaller installations
• Typically 3.1kW to 10kW output
• No electrician required for installation
• Ideal for "taking the edge off" pool water in summer months

Hardwired Heat Pumps

• Require professional electrical installation
• Higher power output for larger pools (12kW+)
• Better for year-round heating or large volumes
• More powerful performance in cooler weather

👉 Shop Plug & Play Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are remarkably efficient. For every 1kW of electricity used, they return 4-5kW of heat to your pool. This is known as the COP (Coefficient of Performance).

Example: A 6.6kW Flotide A7 heat pump only uses about 1.2kW of electricity per hour — similar to running a kettle!

Tips to keep running costs low:

• Use a thermal cover to retain heat overnight
• Run the heat pump during the warmest part of the day
• Once at temperature, you're just maintaining — much cheaper than initial heating

To get your pool ready for the season, you'll typically need:

• Chlorine tablets or granules — for ongoing sanitisation
• Shock treatment — to kill bacteria and clear cloudy water
• pH adjusters — to balance water chemistry (pH should be 7.2-7.6)
• Test strips — to monitor chlorine and pH levels
• Algaecide — to prevent green water (especially after winter)

Our Premier Blue Starter Kit includes chlorine tablets, a dispenser, and test strips — perfect for getting started.

👉 Shop all pool chemicals

The best robotic cleaner depends on your pool type and size:

• Above-ground pools: Look for cleaners designed specifically for above-ground pools with softer liners
• In-ground pools: More powerful units that can climb walls and scrub tiles
• Large pools: Models with longer cables and wider cleaning paths

Our top picks include the Dolphin range — reliable, efficient, and low maintenance.

Not sure which is right for you? Contact us with your pool details and we'll recommend the best option.

👉 Browse robotic pool cleaners

We want you to be completely happy with your purchase. If you change your mind:

• You have 14 days from delivery to return unused items in original packaging
• Items must be in resaleable condition
• Return postage is the customer's responsibility unless the item is faulty

For faulty items: All products come with manufacturer warranties. Heat pumps typically include a 2-year warranty with 5-year coverage on compressors and heat exchangers. Contact us and we'll help resolve the issue.

Email sales@123pools.co.uk to arrange a return.

We're here to help! You can reach us by:

• Email: sales@123pools.co.uk (quickest response)
• Contact form: Click here

We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours on working days.

We supply equipment only and don't currently offer installation services. However:

• Plug & Play heat pumps: No installation needed — just connect your hoses and plug in!
• Hardwired units: Any competent pool engineer or plumber should be able to install these. We're happy to provide technical guidance.
• Robot cleaners: Simply drop in the pool — no installation required!

All our products come with clear instructions, and we're always available by email if you need help.

Yes! If you've seen any of our products cheaper on Amazon or eBay, contact us and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.

We're committed to offering unbeatable prices alongside quality products and expert support.

For a healthy, safe pool:

• Chlorine levels: Test 2-3 times per week (aim for 1-3 ppm)
• pH levels: Test 2-3 times per week (aim for 7.2-7.6)
• After heavy use: Test immediately after pool parties or lots of swimmers
• After rain: Rainwater can affect pH and dilute chlorine

Our 3-in-1 Test Strips make it quick and easy to check your water in seconds.

👉 Shop water testing supplies

Most UK pool owners open their pools between late April and mid-May, once the weather starts to warm up.

Opening checklist:

1. Remove your winter debris cover and clean it for storage
2. Remove any winterising plugs and reconnect equipment
3. Check your pump, filter, and pipework for damage
4. Refill to normal water level if needed
5. Run your pump and check for leaks
6. Test and balance your water chemistry
7. Shock treat the water to kill any bacteria
8. Once water is clear and balanced, you're ready to swim!

Tip: Start your heat pump a few days before you want to swim — it takes time to raise the temperature.

Proper winterisation protects your pool and equipment during the cold months. Typically done in late September to October:

Pool winterisation steps:

1. Balance your water chemistry one last time
2. Add a winterising chemical treatment (we stock Relax Pool Winter Treatment)
3. Lower the water level slightly (below skimmer)
4. Drain and store pumps, filters, and heaters
5. Fit a winter debris cover

Heat pump winterisation — CRITICAL:

1. Disconnect power and turn OFF circulation
2. Disconnect plumbing unions
3. Remove the drain plug and allow all water to drain
4. Tilt the unit if needed to ensure no water remains inside

⚠️ Important: Freeze damage to heat pumps is NOT covered by warranty. Always fully drain your heat pump before temperatures drop below freezing.

It's personal preference, but here are typical ranges:

• Casual swimming: 26-28°C (most popular)
• Lap swimming/exercise: 24-26°C
• Children's pools: 28-30°C
• Hot tubs/spas: 36-40°C

Cover note: If you're heating above 29°C, you'll need a 12mm thermal cover rather than standard 8mm, as thinner covers aren't rated for higher temperatures.