What does 'inverter' or 'dual-mode' actually mean on a pool heat pump? Trying to figure out which spec matters
Total noob question. Trying to make sense of heat pump specs and the marketing pages all use these terms like they're obvious.
Setup: 18ft above ground in georgia, want to extend the season a few months on each end. Looking at heat pumps in the $1500-2500 range.
Every product page I read mentions:
- "inverter" or "DC inverter"
- "dual mode" (heating + cooling)
- BTU rating (50k, 80k, 100k)
- COP
- 110v vs 220v
I get BTU and voltage. The other stuff... not really.
What does "inverter" actually do that a non-inverter doesn't? Is it just quieter or is there a real efficiency difference?
And dual mode — when does anyone actually use the cooling function? Is it useful or is it a checkbox feature?
Trying not to overspend on stuff I don't need but also don't want to buy a 50k btu unit and find out in october I needed 80k.
Any plain english explainers welcome. I've watched 3 youtube videos and I think I'm dumber now lol.