Vian Nexus Air Source Heat Pumps

The Smart Choice

Vian Nexus Air Source Heat Pumps are designed specifically for hot tubs and swim spas. Whether you already own a hot tub or swim spa, or you’re planning to purchase one, adding a Vian Nexus heat pump is a smart and cost-effective upgrade.

As one of our best-selling accessories, Vian Nexus heat pumps have already helped hundreds of customers significantly reduce their electricity costs while enjoying faster, more efficient heating. Engineered for performance, reliability, and long-term savings, the Nexus range is the perfect companion for any hot tub or swim spa setup.

Make the smart choice—choose Vian Nexus for efficiency, comfort, and real energy savings.

nexus air source heat pump

1. Purpose-Built for Spas

Vian Nexus heat pumps are specifically designed for hot tubs and swim spas. Unlike generic heat pumps made for homes, the Nexus range is optimised for the flow, volume, and control systems used in spa environments.


2. Best-in-Class Efficiency

Using advanced inverter and EVI (Enhanced Vapour Injection) technology, Nexus heat pumps deliver industry-leading COPs up to 14.2. That translates to more heat for less energy—and lower electricity bills.


3. Strong Performance in Cold Weather

Whether you’re in a mild or harsh climate, Nexus models deliver:

  • Nexus 5: works down to –10°C

  • Nexus 6: works down to –20°C

  • Nexus 7: works down to –25°C
    This means greater reliability, even in winter.


4. Hybrid Logic for Flexibility

Vian Nexus supports “hybrid” operation—using both the heat pump and your hot tub’s existing electric heater when needed. This is especially useful for:

  • Faster heating when demand is high

  • Quick heat-up between uses (e.g., in holiday rentals)


5. Quiet, Discreet Installation

The Nexus units are compact and can be cleverly hidden:

  • Fit behind most hot tubs

  • Can be integrated into custom steps or housings
    This gives you powerful heating without spoiling the look of your outdoor space.


6. Built-In Frost Protection

With warm-core technology, Nexus models reduce ice build-up internally by gently heating the body and tray. This improves winter reliability and longevity.


7. Full Compatibility with Spa Control Systems

Nexus heat pumps can integrate with Gecko and Balboa control systems (with the correct hardware), allowing for seamless communication, intelligent heating, and easy control.


8. Backed by UK Hot Tubs Expertise

Developed by UK Hot Tubs directors Avon Potter and Simon Clarke, the Nexus range was born out of real-world spa experience and a deep understanding of UK energy challenges. Their hands-on design ensures the range is truly built for spa owners like you.


9. Proven Savings & Customer Satisfaction

Hundreds of spa owners have already installed Nexus heat pumps—and they are reaping the rewards through lower energy bills, longer spa sessions, and reliable heating.


10. Future-Proof Technology

Built with modern, efficient components and smart functions, Nexus heat pumps are designed to last and adapt. Investing in a Nexus means sustainability, reliability, and cost savings for years to come.


In short:
Choose Vian Nexus if you want a spa-specific, ultra-efficient, winter-proof, and intelligently designed heat pump that pays for itself in energy savings and gives you reliable performance when it matters most.

Why Choose the Nexus 5

The Nexus 5 is an efficient, compact, and reliable heat pump in the Vian Nexus range—perfectly suited for smaller to medium-sized hot tubs and swim spas, especially in moderate climates.


1. Optimised for Moderate Conditions

Built for stable performance, the Nexus 5 operates smoothly even when outside temperatures drop to –10°C, making it well-suited to typical UK winters and temperate outdoor settings.


2. High Efficiency

With full inverter and EVI (Enhanced Vapour Injection) technology, the Nexus 5 delivers a COP of up to 13, ensuring you get more heating power for less electricity—saving on running costs without compromising performance.


3. Compact and Discreet Design

Designed for practical installation, the Nexus 5 fits neatly behind most hot tubs—even when a cover lifter is fitted. That means:

  • Hidden from sight

  • Doesn’t need additional space

  • Makes use of the space already used for the cover to drop down behind the tub


4. Precise and Consistent Temperature Control

With smart modulation and inverter technology, the Nexus 5 maintains accurate and stable water temperatures, letting you enjoy your spa whenever you want without big fluctuations or energy waste.


5. Easy to Install and Maintain

Thanks to its thoughtful design and reliable engineering, the Nexus 5 is:

  • Simple to set up

  • Low-maintenance

  • Built for long-term dependable performance


6. Compatible with Leading Spa Control Systems

Thanks to its communication options, the Nexus 5 integrates with major spa control platforms like Gecko and Balboa (when paired with the correct hardware), giving you control and flexibility.


7. Durable and Built to Last

Its inverter technology, robust build, and efficient components make the Nexus 5 a long‑lasting solution, delivering both reliability and consistent performance over time.


In Summary

Choose the Nexus 5 if you want a cost-effective, compact, high-efficiency heat pump for a smaller or medium hot tub. It provides:
✔ COP up to 13
✔ Performance down to –10°C
✔ Quiet, discreet installation
✔ Stable temperature control
✔ Compatibility with Gecko & Balboa

Ideal for spa owners who want efficiency, reliability, and simplicity in a small package.

Why Choose the Nexus 6

The Nexus 6 is a high-performance model in the Vian Nexus heat pump range, engineered for efficient and reliable heating in colder climates. It strikes a perfect balance between power, control, and energy savings for both domestic and commercial spa applications.


1. Cold‑Weather Reliability

Equipped with EVI and heated bands, the Nexus 6 delivers consistent heat even when temperatures drop as low as –20°C. This makes it a dependable choice for:

  • Exposed outdoor installations

  • Regions with harsh winters

  • Users who want peace of mind during prolonged cold snaps


2. Excellent Efficiency

With a COP of up to 12.5, the Nexus 6 offers outstanding energy efficiency, helping you reduce electricity costs without compromising on heating power.


3. Fast Heat-Up with Hybrid Logic

The Nexus 6 supports hybrid operation, meaning it can work alongside your hot tub’s 3 kW electric heater. This delivers:

  • Rapid temperature recovery

  • Ideal performance for high-usage environments (e.g. holiday lets or rentals)

  • Smart energy usage during steady-state heating


4. Built‑In Anti‑Ice Protection

Thanks to Warm Core Technology, the Nexus 6 gently heats its internal body and tray to avoid ice build-up. This ensures:

  • Reliable operation in freezing conditions

  • Reduced maintenance and longer component life

  • Greater longevity and consistent performance


5. Compact Yet Powerful Design

Though more powerful than smaller models, the Nexus 6 is designed to be integrated neatly:

  • Can be housed in a custom step or cabinet

  • Keeps the unit discreet and out of sight

  • Maintains garden aesthetics without compromising functionality


6. Control System Compatibility

The Nexus 6 is fully compatible with leading spa control systems, thanks to a direct input switch for Gecko and Balboa platforms (when fitted with the correct hardware). This provides:

  • Seamless integration

  • Intelligent temperature control

  • Simple user experience


7. Built for Longevity

With robust components, inverter technology, and protective heating features, the Nexus 6 is built to last—delivering reliable performance through challenging conditions.


In Summary

The Nexus 6 is an excellent choice if you want a powerful, efficient heat pump that can handle cold climates without sacrificing control or speed.
✔ Operates down to –20°C
✔ COP up to 12.5
✔ Hybrid logic for fast heat recovery
✔ Anti-ice warm-core protection
✔ Compact and discreet installation
✔ Compatible with Gecko and Balboa control systems

For spa owners who need reliability, efficiency, and speed in colder environments, the Nexus 6 delivers.

Why Choose the Nexus 7 EVI?

The Nexus 7 EVI is the flagship model in the Vian Nexus air source heat pump range, engineered for maximum performance, efficiency, and reliability in even the harshest conditions. It’s designed for hot tubs and swim spas where consistent warmth and energy savings are essential.


1. Extreme Cold-Weather Performance

Thanks to EVI (Enhanced Vapour Injection) technology, the Nexus 7 can reliably operate in temperatures as low as –25°C. This makes it ideal for:

  • Exposed locations

  • Northern climates

  • Long-term outdoor installations

No other standard heat pump in its class delivers this level of cold-weather reliability.


2. Industry-Leading Efficiency

The Nexus 7 achieves a COP of up to 14.2, meaning it produces more heat per unit of electricity than almost any other spa heat pump. This translates to:

  • Significant savings on energy bills

  • More cost-effective all-year-round heating

  • Faster payback on your investment


3. Powerful Hybrid Logic

The Nexus 7 can work alongside your hot tub’s built-in 3kW electric heater, using it only when needed for rapid heat-up. This ensures:

  • Fast recovery after heavy use or water changes

  • Maximum efficiency during normal heating

  • Ideal performance for holiday lets, rentals, or busy households


4. Built-In Anti-Ice Technology

Featuring a warm-core system, the Nexus 7 gently heats critical components such as the compressor body and tray to prevent ice build-up, ensuring:

  • Continuous operation in extreme weather

  • Reduced maintenance

  • Long-term reliability


5. Seamless Integration and Discreet Installation

Despite its superior output, the Nexus 7 is designed to be compact and space-efficient. When installed with a custom step or housing, it can be almost completely hidden, delivering high performance without compromising your outdoor space.


6. Smart Control System Compatibility

The Nexus 7 integrates with modern spa control systems such as Gecko and Balboa (when fitted with the correct hardware), allowing:

  • Intelligent heating management

  • Precise water temperature control

  • Easy integration with existing spa electronics


7. Built for Longevity and Sustainability

  • Uses modern inverter technology for smoother, quieter operation

  • Highly efficient, reducing energy waste and environmental impact

  • Designed to last and maintain performance in challenging climates


In Summary

The Nexus 7 EVI is the ultimate heat pump for hot tubs and swim spas, offering:
✔ Extreme cold-weather capability (down to –25°C)
✔ Outstanding energy efficiency (COP 14.2)
✔ Fast hybrid heat-up when needed
✔ Anti-ice warm-core protection
✔ Seamless, discreet installation
✔ Smart compatibility with modern control systems

For anyone who wants maximum performance, reliability, and energy savings—especially in cold climates—the Nexus 7 EVI is the best choice in the Vian Nexus range.

How Are Air Source Heat Pumps Fitted?

Installing a Nexus air source heat pump is a specialized process that requires the expertise of a qualified hot tub technician. Our team ensures every installation is safe, efficient, and tailored to your spa setup.


1. Professional Installation is Essential

Air source heat pumps involve both plumbing and electrical connections, so proper installation is critical for:

  • Safe operation

  • Optimal heating performance

  • Longevity of your equipment

All installations are completed by experienced technicians with extensive knowledge of hot tubs and swim spas.


2. Installation Included in Our Pricing

All our pricing includes standard delivery and installation within our coverage area, so you know exactly what you’re paying for—no hidden costs.


3. Tested and Trusted Technology

Our Nexus heat pumps represent the latest in UK hot tub heating technology. They have been:

  • Extensively tested to ensure reliability

  • Reviewed highly on Checkatrade, reflecting our customers’ satisfaction

This means you can trust the product and our installation service.


4. Flexible Fit for Most Hot Tubs and Swim Spas

Starting from £1,344 and available in a range of sizes, Nexus heat pumps can be fitted to:

  • Small to medium-sized hot tubs

  • Larger swim spas

  • Most standard UK spa designs


5. Expertise You Can Rely On

By combining UK Hot Tubs’ extensive experience with high-quality equipment, every Nexus heat pump installation is:

  • Safe and compliant

  • Optimized for performance

  • Designed to maximize energy efficiency


In Summary

Fitting a Nexus air source heat pump is more than just plugging in a device. With professional installation included in our pricing, fully tested UK-ready technology, and flexible sizing for most tubs and spas, you can enjoy:
✔ Safe, reliable installation by experts
✔ Energy-efficient, cost-saving heating
✔ Proven technology with great customer reviews
✔ A solution tailored to your spa

In Summary: Why You Need a Nexus Heat Pump

If you want to enjoy your hot tub or swim spa more often, more affordably, and more efficiently, then a Nexus Air Source Heat Pump is the smartest upgrade you can make.

You’ll benefit from:
✔ Significant energy savings
✔ Faster heating times
✔ Reliable performance in cold weather
✔ Quiet, efficient operation
✔ Lower long-term running costs

Advantages of Choosing a Nexus Air Source Heat Pump Over All Others

1. Purpose-Built for Hot Tubs & Swim Spas

Unlike many “generic” air source heat pumps, the Nexus range is designed specifically for hot tub and swim spa applications. This means:

  • Correct flow rates

  • Compatible control logic

  • Efficient low-volume heating

  • Seamless integration with modern spa systems

No compromises—just optimal performance.


2. Exceptional Energy Efficiency (Leading COP Ratings)

The Nexus models offer industry-leading COP values, with the top model achieving a COP of up to 14.2.
This means:

  • More heat for every unit of electricity

  • Lower running costs

  • Faster return on investment

Most standard heat pumps can’t match this efficiency across real-world spa conditions.


3. Outstanding Cold-Weather Performance

With advanced EVI and inverter technology, Nexus heat pumps outperform competitors in cold climates:

  • Nexus 5: down to –10°C

  • Nexus 6: down to –20°C

  • Nexus 7: down to –25°C

This allows stable, reliable heating long after other heat pumps lose performance.


4. Hybrid Logic for Faster Heat-Up Times

The Nexus range can work in harmony with the hot tub’s existing 3kW electric heater, providing the ideal blend of:

  • Speed (rapid heat-up when needed)

  • Efficiency (heat pump as primary source)

Perfect for holiday lets and high-turnover environments.


5. Discreet, Space-Saving Installation

Each model is engineered with practical installation in mind:

  • Compact units fit behind most hot tubs

  • Larger models can be hidden inside custom steps or housings

  • Minimal visual impact with maximum heating performance

No bulky equipment ruining your garden space.


6. Warm-Core Anti-Ice Technology

The Nexus range includes internal heating protection to prevent ice build-up in extreme weather.
This increases:

  • Reliability

  • Lifespan

  • Winter efficiency

A feature rarely found on standard heat pumps.


7. Full Compatibility With Leading Spa Control Systems

Nexus heat pumps integrate seamlessly with:

  • Gecko systems

  • Balboa systems

(using the correct hardware), enabling:

  • Direct communication

  • Intelligent heating logic

  • Simple, user-friendly control

Not all heat pumps offer this level of plug-and-play compatibility.


8. Designed and Evolved by UK Hot Tubs Specialists

The Nexus range was developed with real-world UK spa usage in mind, informed by:

  • Rising UK electricity costs

  • Harsh winter conditions

  • Customer demand for efficiency and reliability

This results in a product range that solves actual spa-owner problems—not just theoretical ones.


9. Proven Savings for Hundreds of Customers

These heat pumps are already one of the best-selling hot tub accessories, with hundreds of satisfied users benefiting from:

  • Lower running costs

  • Quieter operation

  • Longer equipment life

  • Better temperature control

The track record speaks for itself.


10. Future-Ready Technology

With inverter technology, EVI systems, smart integration, and highly efficient components, Nexus heat pumps are built to remain relevant, efficient, and reliable for years to come.

If you are interested in finding out more about the range of Vian Nexus Air Source Heat Pumps we offer, why not call us today on 02382 687 005

Our team would be delighted to help you with any questions or queries you might have, and we will endeavour to get back to you as soon as we can.

REQUIREMENTS

 
  • Electrical requirements – The heat pump does not need any additional electrical installation on site as the unit will take its power from the hot tub or swim spa.
  • Planning – Each installation will vary, and we will undertake a site survey to review and discuss the best fitment and location for the heat pump. This survey is free of charge to our local clients and is a great opportunity to discuss the best option for the installation of the heat pump.
  • Fitment – We will undertake some basic modifications to your hot tub/swim spa to plumb the heat pump into the heating system. There will be an inlet and an outlet pipe plumbed into the hot tub base/cabinet to provide circulation through the heat pump.
  • Location – The heat pump requires a minimum of 450mm of inlet space and is recommended to have a minimum of 1500mm of space for the fan outlet.

HOW IT WORKS

  1. The fan in the air source heat pump draws air over a network of tubes that look a little like a car radiator. These tubes are filled with an eco-friendly R32 refrigerant.
  2.  The air then passes over the tubes warming up the refrigerant and turning it from a liquid into a gas.
  3. This gas is passed through a compressor which increases the pressure and significantly raises the temperature of the gas, which is then passed through a titanium heat exchanger.
  4. The hot tub’s water circulation system is plumbed through the air source heat pump and the heat from the gas travels through the heat exchanger, which in turn heats the water from the hot tub or swim spa as it passes over it.
  5. The refrigerant then cools and turns back into a liquid and starts the process all over again.
How a Air Source Heat Pump works on a Hot Tub or Swim-spa

Due to how the system works, our air source heat pump will still produce heat even if the ambient air temperature is below zero as the compression of the refrigerant creates heat. Not only is this a far more cost-effective solution to heat your hot tub, it is also a much more eco-friendly option.

REAL WORLD TESTING

By UK Hot Tubs

The chart below shows the kWh used by the heat pump to maintain the set point of 40°C. The test period is for 31 days between the 8th Dec 2022 and the 7th January 2023.

This was an ideal test period as the beginning of the test on the 8th Dec 2022 the UK experienced a very cold spell with temperatures dropping several degrees below zero.

Figure 1 shows the recorded temperature on the 10th of Dec 2022 of -3.1°C and the chart shows the kWh usage of 5.62kWh. Compared to figure 2 showing the temperature for the 4th of Jan 2023 being 11.5°C the kWh usage reduced to only 1.66 kWh.

The total kWh used by the heat pump over this period was 116.21 and this equates to an average of 3.75 kWh per day. As the ambient temperature rises, we can easily see that the efficiency of the heat pump increases significantly.

heat pump kWh
  • Test Location is Chichester, West Sussex, UK – All figures are just relating to the heating. – The hot tub is outdoors and not under a gazebo or shelter
  • The electric heater is disconnected so all heating is supplied by the heat pump only – We are testing a Vian 7kW S7 Plus Air Source Heat Pump
  • The heat pump is set to boost mode – The hot tub is a mid-specification model of approx 1550 litres of water. – The hot tub is set to heat to 40°C
  • We have used an older cover for these tests that is slightly waterlogged (to mimic real world) – The pipes to the heat pump are not insulated
  • The heat pump is within 1 metre of the hot tub (The hot tub has economy cycles set as follows: Tub goes into economy from 10.00pm to 10.00am, so does not heat for 12 hours overnight, 7 days per week. Then a second economy mode from 1.00pm to 4.00pm it also won’t heat)

To equate these kWh figures to a cost, we use the current price per kilowatt hour as a multiplier. Currently at the time of updating this case study the new kWh rate as per Ofgem is: 27.35 pence per kWh (1/10/2023)

10th December 2022, a cold day where we experienced temperatures below zero – kW usage = 5.62kWh used / Heating cost = £1.53

For comparison on the 4th January 2023 we had much a warmer temperature and the kW usage was only 1.66 equating to a cost of £0.45p.

The total average daily Kilowatts used during this winter test period of 31 days equated to 3.75 kW meaning the average daily cost of the heat pump was only £1.03p.

electricity stats
electricity stats
heating temp
figure-1-alt

LONG-TERM TESTING

By UK Hot Tubs

Looking at further long-term results we continued to measure the heat pump consumption through the winter, spring, and summer months. 

At the time of updating this case study we can report on a ten-month period of testing. This period covers the initial 31-day test period from 8th December 2022 up to the 7th September 2023. 

The chart and table below show the total kilowatts consumed by the hot tub air source heat pump by month during this period.

IN SUMMARY

We can now look at a long period of results covering warm and cold months to determine an average overview of the consumption and cost experienced when using the Vian S7 air source heat pump to heat the hot tub.

The total kilowatts used by the air source heat pump over this period was: 749.55.

Resulting in an average monthly kW use and cost of 74.96 kW / £ 20.50.

Resulting in an average daily kW use and cost of 2.46 kW / £ 0.67p when we gross this data over a year and averaging by 365 days. 

Quite incredibly these figures mean that the total cost of the air source heat pump consumption over the ten months test period equates to £205.00 at a rate of 27.35 pence per kilowatt hour.

Vian S7 air source heat pump to heat the hot tub. Results covering warm and cold months
From 1st October 2023 new kWh rate will be set at 27.35p website reference (Ofcom)
Vian S7 air source heat pump to heat the hot tub

These recordings and data are only for representative purposes as there are so many variables with different locations, temperatures and usage that could result in different figures. 

Whilst not independently vetted, we have performed this test to measure the kWh power consumption of our Vian 7kw S7 plus heat pump to show some of the real-world results. 

We used a simple inline kWh meter that connects to a smart home system to measure and record the usage.

We chose to undertake this testing during the colder months and incorporate a very cold period of weather to record the results in these conditions. As the ambient temperature increases through the seasons then the efficiency of the heat pumps will increase, and the kWh usage will reduce as can be seen with the longer-term testing results.

Our figures and recordings are only relating to the consumption of the air source heat pump. Whilst fitting an air source heat pump to your hot tub or Swim Spa will significantly reduce overall running costs it will only reduce costs pertaining to heating.  

We believe it is clear to see that a Vian Power Heat Pump is an extremely efficient heating solution for your hot tub or Swim Spa.