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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.
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. Some other manufacturer’s
systems are secured with cumbersome and unattractive straps
that can lead to roof damage.
Q: System Sizing
A: There are a number of factors to consider in sizing the collector
area and the first is the actual pool surface area. Starting
with a minimum area equal to 30% of the pools surface area,
system design is further affected by collector orientation,
wind conditions, shading of the pool, local climate and length
of swimming season desired. 100% coverage is not uncommon.
Q: Orientation
A: Ideally the collectors should face south and be tilted to
latitude minus 10 to 15 degrees. Increase collector area to
50% if collectors are laid flat. Add another 25% if collectors
face west or east. Other orientations are not recommended.
Although roof installations are most common, a frame can be
constructed for "ground mount" for most solar systems
when a roof installation is problematic due to inadequate
space or aesthetic considerations. In areas subject to winter
freezing, the collectors and plumbing should be installed
to allow all water to drain when the system is off.
Q: Is there enough sun where I live?
A: Studies show that there is enough solar energy in all parts
of the United States and into Canada for you to enjoy a longer
swim season with a solar pool heater.
The solar collectors should be installed where they can be
in the sun a good portion of the day. Depending on the angle
of the mounting surface, east and west facing system can function
as well as those with southern faces. An orientation up to
45 degrees east or west of due south will not significantly
decrease performance as long as shading is avoided. We typically
look for a minimum of 5 hours of sun on the collectors between
the hours of 10am-5pm for reliable performance.
Q: What if it’s cloudy outside?
A: As long as it is daytime, the system absorbs solar radiation.
Any solar radiation absorbed by the system will heat your
pool. It is important to note that increasing the number of
solar panels in your system will help absorb more heat.
Q: 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.
Q: Is a solar pool heater better than a gas
heater?
A: We think so. 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 the gas company
depending on how much you use the heater (your pool store
can give you estimates for your area). 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.
Q: 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 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.
Q: 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.
How They Work
Most solar pool heating systems include the following:
- A solar collector — the device through which pool
water is circulated to be heated by the sun
- A filter — removes debris before water is pumped
through the collector
- A pump — circulates water through the filter and
collector and back to the pool. Usually the existing pump
will suffice.
- A flow control valve — automatic or manual device
that diverts pool water through the solar collector.
Q: 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 eth pool chemicals. Solar pool collectors
do not require glazing or insulation making them much less
expensive and lighter then domestic hot water panels.
How is solar pool heater different from a solar pool blanket?
A solar pool hating system generates heat for your pool while
a pool blanket helps to maintain the pool temperature. A
pool blanket does not generate heat. Since evaporation is
the biggest source of heat loss for pools (75%), pool covers
are an inexpensive way to maximize the efficiency of a pool
heating system. In addition, pool covers reduce water and
chemical loss 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.
Q: Temperature
A: Pool systems heat a large amount of water each day and an
efficient design returns the water to the pool after picking
up 2 to 5 degrees F.
Q: What maintenance is involved?
A: Your solar pool heater will require no maintenance beyond
your usual pool winterizing procedures.
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