The AES EFI Ultra represents a new generation of full-inverter swimming pool heat pumps designed specifically for Australian conditions. Using environmentally friendly R32 refrigerant and featuring Mitsubishi twin rotary DC inverter compressors, this range delivers exceptional efficiency and quiet operation for residential pools.
Product Range and Specifications
The EFI Ultra series comprises five models suitable for various pool sizes:
Model Lineup
EFI Ultra 9.5kW
- Recommended pool size: 20-40m³
- Heating capacity: 1.8-9.48kW
- Power input: 0.11-1.44kW
- COP range: 6.6-16.4
- Dimensions: 910 × 355 × 620mm
- Net weight: 37kg
EFI Ultra 11.5kW
- Recommended pool size: 25-50m³
- Heating capacity: 2.8-11.51kW
- Power input: 0.17-1.74kW
- COP range: 6.6-16.5
- Dimensions: 1000 × 400 × 660mm
- Net weight: 42kg
EFI Ultra 15.3kW
- Recommended pool size: 30-60m³
- Heating capacity: 3.48-15.3kW
- Power input: 0.22-2.35kW
- COP range: 6.5-15.9
EFI Ultra 21.2kW
- Recommended pool size: 45-80m³
- Heating capacity: 4.72-21.21kW
- Power input: 0.29-3.26kW
- COP range: 6.5-16.2
- Dimensions: 1130 × 455 × 760mm
- Net weight: 66kg
EFI Ultra 25kW
- Recommended pool size: 55-90m³
- Heating capacity: 5.05-25.28kW
- Power input: 0.31-3.89kW
- COP range: 6.5-16.2
- Net weight: 71kg
All models operate on 220-240V~/50Hz single-phase power supply and feature titanium tube heat exchangers with hydrophilic fin air-side coils.
Key Features and Technology
Inverter Technology
The full inverter design uses DC variable-speed technology for both the compressor and fan motor, allowing the heat pump to modulate output precisely to match heating demand. This results in superior energy efficiency, reduced noise levels, and extended equipment lifespan compared to fixed-speed units.
Three Operating Modes
Boost Mode: Maximum heating capacity for rapid temperature increase. Operates at full power with COP values ranging from 6.5 to 6.6, depending on the model.
Smart Mode: Balanced performance optimising both efficiency and heating speed. Delivers COP values between 8.9-9.35, providing excellent energy efficiency whilst maintaining good heating rates.
Silent Mode: Prioritises quiet operation for noise-sensitive environments. Despite reduced output, it still achieves impressive COP values of 13.1-14.2, making it highly economical for overnight or extended heating cycles.
Environmental Considerations
The use of R32 refrigerant offers several advantages:
- Lower global warming potential than traditional refrigerants
- Improved energy efficiency
- Single-component refrigerant simplifies handling and recovery
- Better performance across the ambient temperature range
Operating Range
The EFI Ultra series operates effectively in ambient temperatures from -10°C to 43°C, making it suitable for year-round use in most Australian climates. The water temperature can be set between 15°C and 40°C, accommodating both comfortable swimming temperatures and spa-like warmth.
Installation Requirements
Location and Spacing
Proper installation site selection is critical for optimal performance:
- Minimum 3 metres from the water’s edge
- Minimum 600mm above ground level
- Level, stable concrete foundation capable of supporting unit weight
- Minimum support weight requirement: 21g/mm²
- 500mm clearance on sides and rear
- 1000mm clearance in front of the unit
- Free ventilation above the unit
- Protected from direct weather where possible
The unit must be positioned to ensure adequate airflow, prevent air recirculation, and allow drainage of condensate water that forms during operation.
Plumbing Connections
Water connections accommodate 40mm or 50mm PVC piping. The inlet and outlet unions cannot support the weight of flexible hoses and must be connected using rigid pipes. For optimal heating efficiency, keep the water pipe length to 10 metres or less between the pool and the heat pump.
Recommended water flow rates:
- EFI Ultra 9.5: 60-90 LPM
- EFI Ultra 11.5: 70-105 LPM
- EFI Ultra 15: 85-120 LPM
- EFI Ultra 21: 120-160 LPM
- EFI Ultra 25: 135-185 LPM
Operating pressure limits: 0.1-0.6 MPa for both water operating pressure and inlet pressure.
Electrical Requirements
Professional installation by a licensed electrician is mandatory. The system must comply with AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and include:
- 30mA RCD (residual current device) upstream protection
- Appropriate D-curve circuit breaker sized for the unit
- Outdoor-rated supply cable with the correct diameter
- Proper earthing connections
- 30A/250VAC fuse specification
Recommended cable specifications:
- EFI Ultra 9.5 & 11.5: 3G 2.5mm² (AWG 14)
- EFI Ultra 15, 21 & 25: 3G 4.0mm² (AWG 12)
Third-Party Controller Integration
The EFI Ultra includes terminals for connecting third-party pool automation controllers. This passive input connection allows the heat pump to respond to external control signals without requiring a power plug from existing pool pumps, preserving manufacturer warranties.
Connection points vary by model:
- EFI Ultra 9.5: Terminals 1 & 2
- EFI Ultra 11.5/15/21/25: Terminals L1 & N1
Operation and Control
Wired Controller
The EFI Ultra features a colour touchscreen controller with intuitive navigation:
Main Display: Shows current water temperature, target temperature, operating mode, WiFi status, and system alerts. Temperature adjustment is accomplished via a circular touch interface.
Mode Selection: Quick access to heating, automatic, cooling, and defrost modes. One-touch defrosting initiates the manual defrost cycle when needed.
Frequency Settings: Immediate switching between Powerful, Silent, and Smart operating modes to suit current requirements.
Timer Functions: Schedule up to 8 on/off cycles per day with flexible programming. Each timer cycle can specify start time, end time, and repeat pattern across weekdays.
Screen Protection: Configurable screen saver conserves power and extends display life. When enabled, the display shows a simplified interface after 5 minutes of inactivity, then turns off completely after an additional 2 minutes.
Status Monitoring: Real-time display of inlet water temperature, outlet water temperature, ambient temperature, exhaust temperature, suction temperature, coil temperatures, and compressor current.
Smart Life WiFi Control
The integrated WiFi module enables remote monitoring and control through the Smart Life smartphone app (iOS and Android compatible).
Setup Methods:
- QR Code Scan: Controller displays QR code for quick pairing
- Manual EZ Mode: Traditional network configuration
- Bluetooth Connection: Automatic device discovery when Bluetooth and WiFi are both enabled
App Features:
- Temperature adjustment with a visual interface
- Mode switching between heating, cooling, and automatic
- Timer scheduling with multiple daily programs
- Device sharing with family members
- Real-time status monitoring
- Push notifications for faults or alerts
Multiple users can control the same heat pump through device sharing functionality, ideal for households or rental properties.
User-Adjustable Parameters
Advanced users can access additional settings via password-protected menus:
| Parameter | Function | Range |
| A1 | Heating target temperature | 20°C to A7 setting |
| A2 | Cooling target temperature | A8 setting to 30°C |
| A3 | Automatic target temperature | A8 to A7 setting |
| A10 | Temperature sensor compensation | -10°C to +10°C |
| P01 | Pump control mode | 6 options for various configurations |
| P02 | Pump interval running time | 0-120 minutes |
Maintenance and Winterisation
Regular Maintenance
Monthly Tasks:
- Clean casing with a damp cloth (no detergents or harsh chemicals)
- Check condensate drainage
- Verify airflow through the evaporator
Annual Professional Service:
- Comprehensive safety inspection
- Electrical wiring integrity check
- Earth bonding verification
- Pressure gauge monitoring
- Refrigerant charge verification
- Evaporator coil cleaning (soft brush and vacuum cleaner)
Winter Shutdown Procedure
When not using the pool during the winter months:
- Turn off the power at the isolator and main switchboard
- Remove the water inlet union to drain the heat exchanger completely
- Allow all water to drain from the system (critical to prevent freeze damage)
- Replace the union loosely to protect threads
- Install a protective cover over the unit
- Document shutdown date for service records
Critical Warning: Water freezing inside the titanium heat exchanger will cause permanent damage not covered by warranty. Complete drainage is essential if temperatures may drop below 0°C.
For pools used year-round in cold climates, keep the circulation pump running continuously during freezing conditions to prevent ice formation in the heat exchanger.
Fault Diagnosis and Protection
The EFI Ultra incorporates comprehensive protection systems with clear fault code displays. When faults occur, the warning icon flashes on the controller and detailed information is accessible via the fault menu.
Common Fault Categories
Sensor Faults (E10-E18): Temperature sensor failures display as “-.-” on screen. These typically indicate disconnected sensors or damaged wiring rather than sensor failure itself.
Communication Faults (E01, E06, E07): Indicate problems between the controller, main board, and inverter driver. Usually resolved by checking connections and power cycling the system.
Pressure Protection (E03, E04, E31, E32): High or low refrigerant pressure protection or pressure switch faults. These may indicate low refrigerant charge, blocked airflow, or flow switch issues.
Flow Protection (E02): The Flow switch fault indicates insufficient water flow through the heat exchanger. Check for closed valves, dirty filters, inadequate pump capacity, or air in the system.
Temperature Protection (E24-E27, E30): Various temperature limit protections prevent equipment damage from extreme conditions.
The controller displays fault codes with plain English descriptions, making troubleshooting accessible without extensive technical knowledge. Persistent faults should be addressed by qualified service technicians.
Performance Optimisation
Maximising Efficiency
Use Smart Mode: For most heating applications, Smart Mode provides the best balance of heating speed and energy consumption, with COP values approaching 9.3.
Size Appropriately: Selecting the correct model for pool volume ensures optimal efficiency. Oversizing leads to short cycling, while undersizing results in extended run times.
Maintain Water Flow: Keep filters clean and ensure the circulation pump provides flow within the specified range. Low flow reduces heat transfer efficiency.
Optimise Runtime: Heating during warmer parts of the day (when ambient temperature is higher) improves COP and reduces operating cost.
Insulate Pool: Pool covers and proper insulation dramatically reduce heat loss, allowing the heat pump to maintain temperature with minimal runtime.
Regular Cleaning: Keep the air-side heat exchanger clean. Blocked fins reduce airflow and severely impact performance.
Noise Management
For installations where noise is a concern:
- Use Silent Mode during noise-sensitive hours (evenings, early mornings)
- Position the unit away from the bedroom windows and neighbouring properties
- Ensure level installation to minimise vibration transmission
- Consider acoustic barriers or strategic landscaping
- Verify the unit sits on a solid, stable foundation
Silent Mode operates at 33-35 dB(A) depending on model, comparable to a whisper, whilst still maintaining remarkable efficiency (COP 13.1-14.2).
Warranty Coverage
AES EFI Ultra heat pumps include comprehensive warranty protection:
- 30-year titanium heat exchanger warranty (pro-rata)
- 6-year compressor warranty
- 2-year electronics warranty
- 1-year labour warranty
Warranty terms and conditions apply. Complete warranty documentation is available from Australian Energy Systems.
Warranty Exclusions: Damage from improper installation, inadequate drainage, chemical corrosion, power surges, lightning strikes, or operation outside specified parameters voids warranty coverage.
Summary
The AES EFI Ultra series represents advanced pool heating technology optimised for Australian conditions. The combination of full inverter technology, three operating modes, comprehensive WiFi control, and exceptional efficiency ratings makes these heat pumps suitable for discerning pool owners seeking performance, economy, and convenience.
With COP values reaching 16.5 in optimal conditions, the EFI Ultra can deliver more than sixteen times as much heating energy as it consumes in electricity, making it one of the most economical heating options available. The R32 refrigerant and DC inverter technology position this series as both environmentally responsible and technologically advanced.
Professional installation, regular maintenance, and appropriate winterisation ensure years of reliable service, whilst the extended warranty coverage demonstrates manufacturer confidence in product durability.
For Australian pool owners seeking efficient, quiet, and controllable pool heating with modern smart home integration, the AES EFI Ultra series merits serious consideration.
Distributor Contact Information
Australian Energy Systems
Unit 17/6 Maunder Street
Slacks Creek QLD 4127
Australia
Phone: (07) 3299 2700
Web: www.australianenergysystems.com.au
