Q: Where is the solar pool heating system installed?

A: The solar collectors are typically mounted on roofs or any area near the pool that provides the proper exposure, orientation and tilt toward the sun. The system however, can also be installed on the ground or on racks.


star Q: Will a roof- mounted system harm my roof?
A: Energy by Choice installs solar pool heating panels that have a roof- friendly individual tube design. The individual tubes allow moisture to pass through the panels, while competing systems trap moisture and debris that can deteriorate the roof condition over time. The solar pool heating panels are then secured while still allowing normal expansion and contraction without applying pressure to the roof.

 

starQ: What is the best orientation for a solar collector?
A: Ideally, the collectors should face south and be tilted for maximum sun exposure. Energy by Choice Ltd. can calculate the performance of a solar pool heater collector on your house. Although roof installations are most common, a frame can be constructed for ground mounting.

star Q: Is there enough sun on Long Island?
A: Yes, as long as the solar collectors can be installed where they can be in the sun a good portion of the day. A minimum of 5 hours of sun on the collectors between the hours of 10am-5pm is usually sufficient.

starQ: What if it’s cloudy outside?
A:The solar collectors absorb some solar radiation, even when it’s cloudy. Additional solar panels can provide extra output as insurance against extended periods of clouds.

starQ: Can I use it with my existing fossil fuel pool heater?
A: Some of our customers choose to use their solar heating system in conjunction with an existing pool heater. The solar heating system is designed to serve as the primary heat source for your pool water, while your existing pool heater serves as a backup heater. By using a solar heating system as your primary heat source, you can extend the life of your existing pool heater while minimizing the utility bills associated with heating your pool.

starQ: Is a solar pool heater better than a gas heater?
A :Yes. A solar pool heater can be less expensive up front than a gas heater, depending on the size of your pool. Once a solar pool heater is installed, your heat is FREE from the sun. With a gas heater you need to pay your gas utility depending on how much you use the heater. In the spring and fall when you really need heat, you use the pool heater more, so it costs you more - but solar energy is still free. Also, solar is non-polluting, and it can cool your pool during hot months, something no gas heater can do.

 

starQ: How do I compare a gas and electric heater to a solar pool heater?

A: First check the operating costs. Will you really be willing to pay the gas bill, or will you shut off the pool heater when you need it most? Second, ask about annual maintenance costs. Solar has none. Also, determine the life of the system. Solar pool heating systems can last 15-20 years. Lastly, what are you really trying to accomplish with a pool heater? If you want your pool to be a comfortable swimming temperature all season long, then choose solar. With an electric heat pump, the annual cost of electricity to operate heat pump is typically between $1400 and $3000 depending on pool size. The operation cost of a heat pump may be one-third the cost of gas, but the sun’s energy is FREE. Also remember that a heat pump has a refrigerant system with a motor and compressor. These mechanical parts eventually wear out and are expensive to replace. If your home is not a suitable candidate for a solar pool heating system due to lack of space for panels or too much shading, an electric heat pump is a better option than oil or gas heaters.

 

starQ: Can pool solar panels be used to heat the house?
A: No. Solar pool panels and controls are designed specifically to heat a large volume of water in a swimming pool, and to operate in temperature ranges of 80 to 100 degrees. Household space heating and household hot water are different applications of solar, requiring the heating of smaller volumes of household water to higher temperatures.

starQ: Can I use a domestic hot water solar system to heat my pool water?
A: No. These solar technologies are designed for different applications. A domestic hot water system cannot sufficiently heat a large body of water such as a pool to comfortable temperatures while a solar pool heating system cannot reach the very high temperatures needed for domestic use. In addition, domestic hot water systems are made of copper, which deteriorates quickly when in contact with the pool chemicals. Solar pool collectors do not require glazing or insulation making them much less expensive and lighter than domestic hot water panels.

starQ: How does a solar pool heater differ from a solar pool blanket?
A:A pool blanket does not generate heat. A solar pool heater generates heat; a pool blanket helps to maintain the temperature. Pool covers reduce loss of water and chemicals while preventing debris from entering the pool. The combined use of a solar pool heater and pool blanket will most cost-effectively and efficiently heat and maintain your swimming pool.

 

starQ: How much will the pool temperature increase?

A: An efficient design returns the water to the pool after picking up 2 to 5 degrees F.

starQ: What maintenance is required?
A: Your solar pool heater will require no maintenance beyond your usual pool winterizing procedures.

 

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