Ladia, my hubby just turned off the heat strips (they were on a separate breaker). We shall see.
I would definitely check the performance of the pond loop. Here are few more hints:
If the inlet temperature is low after the HP runs for a while the loop performance is poor either due to too dense winding of the pipe or air trapped inside. If the inlet temperature is OK but return from the HP is low the flow is not adequate. It might be caused by pump cavitations due to low pressure in the pond loop, one pump in dual pump system not working or some restriction in pond loop. There is a pump curve and expected pressure rise (head) in the HP installation manual. If suction and discharge pressure are measured the chart could be used to read the flow rate etc. Low head means high flow rate and vice versa. Listen to the pond loop pump while it is running. It should emit monotonous hardly audible sound. If the sound is "whooshing" or varies in intensity the pump cavitates or there are air bubbles passing trough. If I recall anything else I will post it.
If you have digital steak thermometer use it to check on on the temperatures. It is imperfect but it will give you at least some idea if you need to invest in or borrow the infrared one. The heating season is almost over and you will run out of warranty. You need to find the problems soon. Refloating and fluffing the pond loop isn't that difficult. Based on the pics you should have enough pipe there.
