Duratech Sun Spring Heat Pump
Models: SUN05, SUN08, SUN12
This manual provides essential information for the installation, operation, safety, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Duratech Sun Spring heat pump.
1. Specifications
This section details the performance data for the Duratech Sun Spring heat pump models.
| UNIT | SUN05 | SUN08 | |
| Advised Pool volume* | m³ | 12 | 25 |
| Operating air temperature | °C | 4~40 | |
| Air 27°C / Water 26°C / Humidity 80% | |||
| Heating Capacity | kW | 5,02 | 8,1 |
| Btu | 17129 | 27637 | |
| Consumed power | kW | 0,686 | 1,01 |
| COP | 7,31 | 7,96 | |
| Air 15°C / Water 26°C / Humidity 70% | |||
| Heating Capacity | kW | 3,64 | 5,8 |
| Btu | 12420 | 19790 | |
| Consumed power | kW | 0,639 | 0,972 |
| COP | 5,69 | 5,97 | |
| Power supply | 230V / 50Hz / 1 Phase | ||
| Electronic Controller | Colour LCD | ||
| Nominal Running current | A | 3,1 | 5,1 |
| Max Current | A | 5 | 7 |
| RCD - Rated current | A | 10 EU/UK/SWISS | 10 EU/UK/SWISS |
| RCD - Leakage current | mA | 30 | 30 |
| Condensor | Titanium Heat Exchanger / NoFrost | ||
| Compressor quantity | 1 | ||
| Compressor type | Rotary | ||
| Refrigerant | R32 | ||
| Refrigerant weight | kg | 0,45 | 0,74 |
| Fan quantity | 1 | ||
| Fan power input | W | 70 | 80 |
| Fan rotary speed | RPM | 950 | 1200 |
| Fan direction | Vertical | ||
| Noise at 10m | dB(A) | 44,2 | 43,8 |
| Water connection | mm | 38 | 38 |
| Water flow range | m³/h | 3 - 12 | 4 - 12 |
| Unit net dimensions (L*W*H) | mm | See dimensions on p3 | |
| Unit shipping dimensions (L*W*H) | mm | 470x490x550 | |
| Net weight | kg | 24,7 | 32 |
| Shipping weight | kg | 25,7 | 33 |
* Advised pool volume for an entirely insulated pool, with cover, free from wind and exposed to the sun.
| UNIT | SUN12 | |
| Advised Pool volume* | m³ | 38 |
| Operating air temperature | °C | 4~40 |
| Air 27°C / Water 26°C / Humidity 80% | ||
| Heating Capacity | kW | 12,2 |
| Btu | 41628 | |
| Consumed power | kW | 2,068 |
| COP | 5,9 | |
| Air 15°C / Water 26°C / Humidity 70% | ||
| Heating Capacity | kW | 9 |
| Btu | 30709 | |
| Consumed power | kW | 1,837 |
| COP | 4,9 | |
| Power supply | 230V / 50Hz / 1 Phase | |
| Electronic Controller | Colour LCD | |
| Nominal Running current | A | 9 |
| Max Current | A | 12 |
| RCD - Rated current | A | 16 EU/SWISS & 13 UK |
| RCD - Leakage current | mA | 30 |
| Condensor | Titanium Heat Exchanger / NoFrost | |
| Compressor quantity | 1 | |
| Compressor type | Rotary | |
| Refrigerant | R32 | |
| Refrigerant weight | kg | 0,95 |
| Fan quantity | 1 | |
| Fan power input | W | 80 |
| Fan rotary speed | RPM | 1200 |
| Fan direction | Vertical | |
| Noise at 10m | dB(A) | 44,7 |
| Water connection | mm | 38 |
| Water flow range | m³/h | 5 - 12 |
| Unit net dimensions (L*W*H) | mm | See dimensions on p3 |
| Unit shipping dimensions (L*W*H) | mm | 470x490x770 |
| Net weight | kg | 45,7 |
| Shipping weight | kg | 46,7 |
* Advised pool volume for an entirely insulated pool, with cover, free from wind and exposed to the sun.
2. Preface
Duratech is committed to providing high-quality and reliable products. This manual contains essential information for installation, debugging, discharging, and maintenance. Please read it carefully before operating or maintaining the unit. The manufacturer is not liable for injury or damage resulting from improper installation or maintenance. Adhere strictly to all instructions. The unit must be installed by a qualified person.
The heat pump will perform optimally when the following elements are present:
- 1. Fresh air
- 2. Electricity
- 3. Swimming pool water
3. Safety Information
Please read these instructions carefully before using the heat pump and keep them for future reference:
- Always keep the unit upright. If tilted or laid on its side, wait 24 hours before starting.
- Place the unit on a flat, solid base. Tilting up to 3° is acceptable.
- Do not drop the heat pump.
- The heat pump must always be installed outdoors.
- Verify that the unit's voltage matches the local mains voltage before connecting. Refer to section 4.4 for electrical connection details.
- Do not pull electrical cables, sensors, or tubing with excessive force.
- Do not wrap cables around the heat pump.
- Do not use the heat pump with a transformer.
- If the heat pump is damaged during transport, contact a service center for replacement to avoid hazards.
- Ensure water connections are properly secured before operation.
- Never insert objects into the fan, as this can cause blockage and damage.
- The evaporator fins must not be damaged.
- This heat pump is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless supervised by a responsible person.
- Children should be supervised to ensure they do not play with the heat pump.
- Disconnect electricity when the unit is not in use and before cleaning.
- Service should only be performed by qualified personnel. Contact an authorized service facility.
- If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, service agent, or similarly qualified person to avoid hazards.
- Contact your dealer if the heat pump is not working properly. Leakage may occur, and while R32 refrigerant is safe, it is flammable if exposed to flames. Stop use until the leak is repaired by a qualified technician.
- Ensure a circuit breaker is installed for the unit to prevent electrical shock or fire.
- The heat pump has an over-load protection system with a 3-minute restart delay after stoppage.
- Condensate water is not suitable for potable water connections.
4. Preparing the Heat Pump for Use
4.1 Typical Set-up
The factory provides the heat pump and connection kit. Additional parts, such as a bypass, must be supplied by the user or installer. The heat pump should be located approximately 2 meters (recommended) from the swimming pool to minimize heat loss from the piping.
Diagram Description: A diagram illustrates the typical setup. It shows the heat pump connected to water pipes. An outlet valve and inlet valve are visible on the heat pump. The water flows from the swimming pool, through a filter, a water pump, and then to the heat pump's inlet. The outlet from the heat pump goes to water treatment (2) and then back to the pool. A bypass valve is recommended in the piping system. Water supply is shown connected to the system.
[!] Put the heat pump on a flat, solid base. Tilting up to 3° is allowed. Install silent blocks to minimize vibrations and noise.
[!] All water treatment feeding to the pool water must be done downstream of the heat pump.
[!] Condensate water is normal and not a sign of a leak. High humidity can result in several liters of condensate per day. Refer to section 5.2 for more information.
[!] Always keep the heat pump in an upright position. If tilted, wait 24 hours before starting.
[!] Installing a bypass is recommended for easier maintenance.
4.2 Water Connection Kit
The factory supplies a water connection kit consisting of 6 parts. Parts 1 and 2 are the main components. Parts 3 to 6 can be interchanged to suit specific pool requirements, offering four possible connection options:
Diagram Description: The diagram shows the 6 parts of the connection kit, labeled 1 through 6. Part 1 and 2 are shown as custom threads. Part 3 is a hose connection for 38mm and 32mm diameters. Part 4 is a BSP G 1 1/2" straight internal pipe thread. Part 5 is a 50mm (metric) connection tube. Part 6 is a 48mm (imperial) connection tube.
The four connection options are illustrated:
- Clamping connection: Uses parts 1, 2, and 3.
- Thread connection: Uses parts 1, 2, and 4.
- Glue connection (50mm metric): Uses parts 1, 2, and 5.
- Glue connection (48mm imperial): Uses parts 1, 2, and 6.
4.3 Installation of the Tubing
The heat pump should be positioned approximately 2 meters (recommended) from the swimming pool to reduce heat loss. Piping must fit the chosen connections and can be glued, clamped, or screwed. Use piping specifically designed for swimming pools and the appropriate glue.
Diagram Description: Diagrams show the 'OUT' water connection from the heat pump to the water treatment system and the 'IN' water connection from the filter system to the heat pump.
4.4 Electrical Wiring
Always verify that the mains voltage matches the unit's operating voltage. A timer can be used to control the heat pump and pool circulation pump. The heat pump remembers its last settings after power interruptions.
Although electrically isolated from the pool water, the unit requires grounding for protection against internal short circuits.
RCD Test Procedure:
- Plug the RCD into a fixed socket.
- Press the "RESET" button. The indicator should turn "ON".
- Press the "TEST" button. The indicator should turn "OFF".
- Press the "RESET" button again to start using the heat pump.
[!] Switch off the heat pump immediately if the RCD indicator turns "OFF". Be cautious when pressing "RESET" after a failure.
The Sun Spring heat pump controller has memory, allowing it to retain settings even after power loss. This enables timer operation. The timer must be installed between the heat pump and the RCD plug. Installation should be performed by a certified electrician.
5. Be Aware Of
5.1 Heat Loss
Longer piping distances increase heat loss. Positioning the heat pump closer to the pool is recommended. Achieving the desired water temperature may take several days, depending on initial water temperature, ambient conditions, and pool volume. Using a pool cover and insulating the tubing can significantly reduce warming-up time.
5.2 Condensation
As the heat pump cools the air by approximately 10°C, condensation may form on the evaporator fins. In high humidity, this can be several liters per hour. The water drains into the base pan and out through a bottom hole. This condensate may be mistaken for pool water. A clear vinyl tube can be fitted to divert condensate away from the unit.
TIP: To verify condensation, shut off the unit while the pool pump runs. If the water stops draining, it is condensation. Alternatively, test the drain water for chlorine; its absence indicates condensation.
[!] Regularly check that the drainage is not clogged and no condensation water remains in the heat pump.
5.3 Unobstructed Space
Ensure a clear area around the heat pump for adequate fresh air intake across the evaporator. Do not obstruct the fan.
Diagram Description: The diagram indicates required clearances: 500mm for inlet air on multiple sides, 1000mm for the connection area, and 3000mm for the blow-out air.
5.4 Time Delay of Compressor
The heat pump features a 3-minute solid-state restart delay after the compressor turns off and a 1-minute compressor running time. These delays protect control components and prevent rapid cycling. The unit will automatically restart approximately 3 minutes after a control circuit interruption or a 1-minute compressor run. Power interruptions during the delay period will reset the countdown.
6. Operation and Use
6.1 Before Operation
The desired temperature can be set using the arrow keys and is automatically stored. The unit can be configured for °C or °F:
- Press UP and DOWN buttons simultaneously to enter the parameter menu.
- Navigate to parameter P02 (Fahrenheit) using the UP/DOWN buttons.
- Press the ON/OFF button to enter the parameter set mode.
- Adjust the parameter value. Setting P02 to '1' changes temperature display to °F.
- Press ON/OFF to exit parameter set mode.
- Press UP and DOWN buttons simultaneously to exit the parameter menu.
6.2 Initial Startup
Follow these steps after verifying all connections:
- Turn on the filter pump. Check for water leaks and proper water flow.
- Plug in the heat pump and turn it ON. The unit will start after the time delay (see 5.4).
- After a few minutes, confirm that the exhausted air is cooler.
- Allow the unit and pool pump to run 24 hours daily until the desired pool water temperature (+0.5°C) is reached. The unit will shut off automatically and restart when the temperature drops 0.5°C below the set point.
6.3 General Interface
The heat pump can be turned ON or OFF using the ON/OFF button.
When OFF: The display shows 'OFF', the desired heating temperature, and any error messages.
When ON: The display shows the desired heating temperature, the current pool water temperature, the 'Heating' indicator (if active), and a graphical flow bar.
The heat pump operates most efficiently when the flow bar is in the green zone. The graph is indicative after 15 minutes of operation.
Flow Bar: Represents the water volume flowing through the unit.
Operational Conditions:
- Low Air Temperature: Stops working below 3.5°C, restarts above 4°C.
- Set Temperature: The target pool temperature. Heating stops when reached and resumes when temperature drops below the set point.
- Pool Temperature: Displays the current water temperature.
- High Air Temperature: Stops working above 40.5°C, restarts below 40°C.
- Low Flow: Stops working if water flow is insufficient. Restarts automatically when flow is restored.
Display Controls:
- UP: Increases the desired temperature. Changes are saved automatically.
- DOWN: Decreases the desired temperature. Changes are saved automatically.
- Defrosting: Indicator for defrost cycle.
- Heating: Indicator when the unit is heating.
- ON/OFF: Starts or stops the heat pump.
6.4 Parameter Interface
Pressing UP & DOWN simultaneously enters the parameter interface, allowing qualified personnel to adjust settings for optimal efficiency. A full list of parameters is in section 6.5.
Diagram Description: The diagram shows the parameter interface. 'Parameter name' displays the parameter identifier (e.g., P01 to P11, TA, TIN, TLI, TE). 'Set' is visible when a parameter is selected for editing. 'Value parameter' shows the current value. The UP, DOWN, and ON/OFF buttons are used for navigation and selection/editing.
- Up: Scrolls up through parameters or edits the selected parameter's value.
- Down: Scrolls down through parameters or edits the selected parameter's value.
- ON/OFF: Selects a parameter for editing.
6.5 Parameter List
This table lists available parameters, their ranges, factory settings, descriptions, and password requirements.
| Parameter Name | Min. | Max. | Factory | Description | PSWD |
| P1 SW_VERSION | / | / | / | Software version | / |
| P2 FAHRENHEIT | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 is °C, 1 is °F | / |
| P3 PSWD_1 | 0,0 | 999,0 | 0,0 | Password 1 | / |
| P4 PSWD_2 | 0,0 | 999,0 | 0,0 | Password 2 | / |
| P5 | / | / | 40,0 | PPS PASSWORD | |
| P6 | / | / | 4,0 | PPS PASSWORD | |
| P7 | / | / | 2,5 | PPS PASSWORD | |
| P8 | / | / | 10,0 | PPS PASSWORD | |
| P9 | / | / | 0,5 | PPS PASSWORD | |
| P10 | / | / | 10,0 | PPS PASSWORD | |
| P11 | / | / | 5,0 | PPS PASSWORD | |
| TA Ambient temperature | / | / | / | Value of the ambient temperature. | / |
| TIN Water in temperature | / | / | / | Value of the water inlet temperature. | / |
| TLI Liquid line temperature | / | / | / | Value of the gas temperature after the heat exchanger | / |
| TE Evaporator temperature | / | / | / | Value of the evaporator temperature. | / |
Note: 'SET' on the display highlights parameters that can be changed.
6.6 Error Interface
When an issue is detected, the heat pump attempts to resolve it by analyzing parameters and restarting components. If the issue persists, an error code is displayed. The heat pump stops working and can only be restarted by unplugging the RCD. If the error remains, contact a service center.
Count of errors: E01 to E04 indicate the number of errors.
Err: Notification of the error.
Diagram Description: The display shows 'Err' and an error code like 'E01'. UP & DOWN buttons are used to enter the error parameter interface.
6.7 Error Parameter Interface
Pressing UP & DOWN simultaneously enters the error parameter interface, showing specific errors that have occurred. A complete list is in section 6.8.
Error Number: E01 to E04.
Error Notification Name:
- EA: Ambient temperature sensor error.
- Ein: Water inlet temperature sensor error.
- EL: Liquid line temperature sensor error.
- LE: Evaporator temperature sensor error.
Diagram Description: The display shows an error code (e.g., E01) and the corresponding error notification name (e.g., EA). UP & DOWN buttons toggle between errors.
6.8 Error List
This table details error names, their interface codes, descriptions, and the recommended action.
| Error name | Error parameter interface | Description | Effect / action |
| Ambient temperature error | EA E01 | - The ambient temperature sensor is broken or disconnected. - E01 Total number of errors in the system (Min E01 max E04). | The heat pump will stop working and can only be restarted by unplugging the RCD. If the pump still shows the error, contact your service centre or similarly qualified person. |
| Condensor water inlet temperature error | Ein E01 | - The evaporator temperature sensor is broken or disconnected. - E01 Total number of errors in the system (Min E01 max E04). | The heat pump will stop working and can only be restarted by unplugging the RCD. If the pump still shows the error, contact your service centre or similarly qualified person. |
| Liquid line temperature error | EL E01 | - The water inlet temperature sensor is broken or disconnected. - E01 Total number of errors in the system (Min E01 max E04). | The heat pump will stop working and can only be restarted by unplugging the RCD. If the pump still shows the error, contact your service centre or similarly qualified person. |
| Evaporator temperature error | LE E01 | - The liquid line temperature sensor is broken or disconnected. - E01 Total number of errors in the system (Min E01 max E04). | The heat pump will stop working and can only be restarted by unplugging the RCD. If the pump still shows the error, contact your service centre or similarly qualified person. |
6.9 Troubleshooting Guide
Improper installation can lead to electrical hazards, injury, or property damage.
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
| Heat pump not running | 1. No electricity | 1. Switch on the electrical power. |
| 2. Unit not turned on | 2. Switch on the heat pump. | |
| 3. Wrong temperature setting | 3. Adjust the temperature setting. | |
| 4. Time delay still activated | 4. Wait 3 min for the unit to start. | |
| 5. Air temperature below 4°C | 5. Wait until the temperature has risen. | |
| 6. Other | 6. See 'error messages'. | |
| Insufficient heating | 1. Obstacles blocking air flow | 1. Remove obstacles. |
| 2. Ice on the evaporator | 2. The pump will try to defrost itself. |
[!] DO NOT attempt any adjustments inside the heater.
[!] Keep hands and hair clear of fan blades to avoid injury.
If unfamiliar with pool filtering systems and heaters:
- Do not attempt adjustment or service without consulting your dealer or a professional pool/air conditioning contractor.
- Read the entire installation and user guide before attempting to use, service, or adjust the heater or pool filtering system.
- Do not start the heat pump until 24 hours after installation to prevent compressor damage.
[!] Turn off power to the unit before attempting service or repair.
7. Wiring Diagrams
7.1 Wire Control Interface Diagram Sun Spring
Diagram Description: The diagram shows the control board of the Sun Spring heat pump. It includes a 230VAC power supply input (L, N), a fuse, a transformer, relays (RY1, RY2), and connections for the compressor (COMP) and fan (FAN). It also shows connections for various sensors: Te (Evaporator Temp. sensor), Tc (Cond. Temp. sensor), Tin (Water In Temp. sensor), and Ta (Ambient Temp. sensor). A display unit is also connected.
Sensor Connections:
- Te: Evaporator Temp. sensor
- Tc: Cond. Temp. sensor
- Tin: Water In Temp. sensor
- Ta: Ambient Temp. sensor
7.2 Piping Diagram and Definition Sun Spring
Diagram Description: The diagram illustrates the refrigeration cycle of the heat pump. It shows the main components: Compressor, Evaporator, Condensor, and Strainer, connected by piping including a Capillary tube. Sensor inputs (Tevap, Tamb, Win, Tliq) are indicated.
8. Maintenance and Inspection
Regularly check water inlet and drainage. Ensure sufficient water and air inflow for optimal performance. Clean the pool filter regularly to prevent unit damage from clogging.
Maintain adequate space and ventilation around the unit as per section 5.3. Clean the heat pump sides regularly for efficient heat exchange.
Verify all unit processes are operational. Periodically check power supply and cable connections. If the unit functions abnormally or emits strange smells, arrange for timely repair or replacement.
If the unit will be unused for an extended period, purge the water. Inspect all parts thoroughly and refill the system completely before restarting.
Restarting After Long Storage:
- Inspect the system for debris or damage.
- Clean evaporator fins with a soft cloth. Ensure they are clean, as blocked air intake reduces heat output.
- Check the fan for blockages.
- Connect water inlet and outlet.
- Turn on the pool water circulation pump to supply water to the heat pump.
- Restore electrical power and press the RCD reset button.
8.1 Water Chemistry
Maintain proper swimming pool water chemical balance within the following limits:
| Min. | Max. | |
| pH | 7,0 | 7,8 |
| Free chlorine (mg/l) | 0,5 | 1,5 |
| Salt (g/l) | 8 |
[!] Failure to maintain these water chemistry limits will void the warranty.
[!] Exceeding recommended chemical concentrations can cause irreparable damage. Always install water treatment equipment downstream of the heat pump. If using an automatic chemical feeder, it must be installed downstream of the heat pump.
9. Winterizing
Although Sun Spring heat pumps are freeze-protected, draining the installation is good practice. Follow these steps:
- Turn off electrical power at the main breaker panel.
- Shut off the water supply to the heat pump.
- Disconnect water inlet and outlet and allow water to drain.
- Re-connect inlet and outlet loosely to prevent debris entry.
[!] Failure to winterize can damage the heat pump and void the warranty.
9.1 Spring Startup
If the heat pump was winterized, follow these steps for spring startup:
- Inspect the system for debris or structural issues.
- Firmly connect water inlet and outlet unions.
- Turn on the filter pump to supply water to the heat pump.
- Restore electrical power and switch the heat pump ON.
10. Environment
At the end of its service life, this heat pump should not be disposed of with domestic waste. It must be taken to a central recycling point for electrical and electronic equipment to help preserve the environment.
11. Service
For service, information, or problems, contact your local dealer. They can contact the manufacturer if needed. Duratech is committed to assisting you.
Find more information at www.duratech.be.
12. Warranty
LIMITED WARRANTY
Duratech warrants all parts against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship for TWO years from the retail purchase date. This warranty is limited to the original purchaser, is non-transferable, and does not apply to products moved from their original installation sites. Manufacturer liability is limited to repair or replacement of defective parts and excludes labor, transportation, and other associated costs.
This warranty does not cover failures resulting from:
- Improper installation, operation, or maintenance as per the "Installation & Instruction Manual".
- Installer's workmanship.
- Improper pool chemical balance (pH 7.0-7.8, TA 80-150 ppm, Free Chlorine 0.5-1.2mg/l, TDS <1200 ppm, Salt <8g/l).
- Abuse, alteration, accident, fire, flood, lightning, rodents, insects, negligence, or acts of God.
- Scaling, freezing, or conditions causing inadequate water circulation.
- Operation outside published water flow rate specifications.
- Use of non-factory authorized parts or accessories.
- Chemical contamination of combustion air or improper use of sanitizing chemicals (e.g., upstream introduction).
- Overheating, incorrect wiring, improper electrical supply, collateral damage from component failure, or running with insufficient water.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
This is the sole warranty provided. No other warranties are authorized. This warranty replaces all other express or implied warranties, including warranties of fitness for a particular purpose and merchantability. Duratech expressly disclaims liability for consequential, incidental, indirect, or punitive damages.
This warranty grants specific legal rights that may vary by country.
WARRANTY CLAIMS
For warranty claims, contact your dealer with proof of purchase, model number, serial number, and installation date. The installer will coordinate with the factory for instructions and service center location. All returned parts require a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number.
Declarations of Conformity
Declarations of conformity for this product are available for download from the House of Duratech website: www.duratech.be.
Contact Details
Propulsion Systems bv
Dooren 72
1785 Merchtem, Belgium
Tel: +32 2 461 02 53
www.duratech.be
info@propulsionsystems.be
Duratech reserves the right to change any part of this document without prior notice.
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