Friday, March 22, 2024

Solar Panels For Pool Heating

Pentair 460734 Mastertemp High

Improved Solar Pool Heater – Full build

Specifications: Compact, rugged casing design, 300,000BTU, digital controls with indicator lights, rotating digital display, certified low NOx emission, dimensions 36 x 25 x 30, weight 136 pounds.

With a minimal and compact design, the Pentair 46734 master temp is powered by natural gas and does an outstanding job in heating above ground pools in a really short space of time.

Its rugged casing on the outside is designed specially to withstand the harsh weather conditions generally experienced by items left in the open air, while it also not affected by stray water splashes that regularly happens around pools.

With a really impressive output heat rating of 300,000BTU, this unit is able to cover extremely large-sized pools, heating the water up in a speedy and efficient fashion. It also comes with a digital display that carries indicator lights, making the unit very more modern, and allows the user to control and operate smoothly. This digital display is designed with controls at the front and center, hence no matter how the unit is positioned, theres always quick, easy access.

Another cool feature about this unit is the presence of a cupro-nickel exchanger that makes sure this unit is able to withstand the unpredictable nature of water that might be used, such as very high flow rate, low PH value and extended runtime.

Pros

Best Pool Heater Solar Panels

Posted on Last updated: December 2, 2022

The best way to enjoy the summer heat is to take a quick dip in a swimming pool. And nowadays, owning your own personal pool is easier and more accessible than ever!

The joy of soaking under the sun is not just for the Rockerfellers and Rothschilds anymore! Swimming pool technology has come a long way. In fact, in addition to permanent in-ground pools and above-ground pools, almost anyone can have access to their own portable pools that you can store in a box when youre not using them. But, there are some limitations to outdoor pools, the main one being that they will always be chillier than their indoor counterparts what if some of us dont enjoy cold water as much as others?

Honestly, I dont enjoy it that much, in spite of being Minnesotan, and I cant do anything about it but wait until the weather is hot enough to relish dipping into cooler waters and find the perfect balance. But what if I want to swim on a cloudy day like the Rockerfellers and Rothschilds?

If you have the same problem as chilly old me, you will want to look into solar panels to heat your portable pool. It is an effective, cost-efficient, and sustainable way of heating up icy waters and keeping them warm.

Florida Solar Design Group

  • Carefree Enjoyment of Your Swimming Pool

    Enjoy a warmer pool every day of the year. No planning ahead. Just pure pleasure.

  • Connector.

    Solar pool heaters are passive. No operating costs. Use your existing pool pump and filter!

  • Connector.

    The Most Effective Way To Heat Your Pool

    The #1 reason people dont use their pool is the operating cost and hassle of using a traditional heater.

Read Also: Solar Powered Outlet For Shed

Siting A Solar Swimming Pool Heater’s Collector

Collectors can be mounted on roofs or anywhere near the swimming pool that provides the proper exposure, orientation, and tilt toward the sun. Both the orientation and tilt of the collector will affect your solar pool heating system’s performance. Your contractor should consider them while evaluating your site’s solar resource and sizing your system.

What Are Solar Panels For Pools

Heat your pool with Sunbather Solar Pool Heating and you can DOUBLE ...

A solar panel for the pool is a device that uses solar energy to heat your swimming pool. It is made up of solar panels, which are installed on your roof or in your yard, and a pump and motor, which circulate water.

In this article, we will discuss the following:

  • What is a solar panel for the pool?
  • How does it work?
  • Advantages of a solar panel for pool over traditional heating methods
  • Cost savings of solar panel for pool
  • Installation tips for a solar panel for the pool

Solar energy heats the water in your pool, making it possible to swim even during colder months of the year.

Recommended Reading: Where Is Solar Energy Used The Most

Above Ground Pool Solar Heaters

Small Pools: If you own one of the ever-popular soft-sided pools like the pop-up or metal frame pools from makers like Intex, there are some quality do-it-yourself solar heaters from Game and Smartpool that are simple to install and take up very little yard space.

To install, all you need to do is turn off your pump and isolate your system by blocking off your skimmer and return or closing your shut-off valves. Next, disconnect the hose to the return and plumb it to the solar heater intake, then add another hose, fitting, and clamp from the solar heater output to the return fitting on the pool wall. Unblock your skimmer and return and turn the system back on and you are ready to enjoy the free heat!

The SunCoil solar heater shown right sits on the ground and can be tipped on 2 legs to maximize the best angle to the sun. A by-pass valve kit is included to shut-off the solar system during night or rainy days. The bypass kit also slows the water flow to allow the solar panel to maintain optimum heating temperature.

Large Pools: For larger, steel-sided above ground pools, there are a variety of manufacturers of much larger solar panels. These are long and flat, rigid yet bendable, and typically 2W x 20L or 4W x 20L so you will need a long space to put them.

Oval above ground pools lend themselves well to these systems as you can place them along the length of the pool, on a small rack attached to the braces or kickers. For round pools you need to be a bit more creative.

How To Install Solar Panels To Heat Your Swimming Pool

If youve decided to purchase pool solar panels and you want to install them yourself, youre in luck: solar panels are pretty simple to install, so this makes for a perfect weekend project.

However we completely understand if DIY isnt for you. So you could also find a solar contractor through Ygrene to install your solar system for you. This will save you a great deal of work and decision-making, and may even make the project go faster.

Read Also: Do You Get Paid For Solar Panels

Don’t Miss: What Are Tesla Solar Panels Made Of

What Are Solar Heaters And How Do They Work

Pool solar panels are constructed of rows of small, hollow tubes made of black polypropylene or rubber that are seamed together to create a large surface area called a panel.

The sunshine heats the black mat and as water passes through, the heat is transferred to the water and returned to the pool.

Solar panels are an eco-friendly way to heat your pool 10-20 degrees warmer, with do-it-yourself installation, zero emissions and with zero operational costs. With no gas or electrical lines to run, they are favored by pool owners everywhere!

Solar heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes but the mechanics are basically the same. You can use your existing pump to circulate water through black tubing which naturally absorbs heat from the sun and sends that heated water back to your pool.

The more surface area the solar heater has, the more BTUs of heat are generated. And the more BTUs you generate, the greater the volume of water you can heat. Since a pool is open to the air, heat can be lost quickly. To combat the heat loss, it is recommended to over-size a solar pool heater.

One or more panels can be joined to create more surface area. Panels can be installed for above ground and in ground pools, positioned in a variety of ways, and controlled manually by turning a valve or automatically, with a solar controller.

Solar Vs Heat Pump Swimming Pool Heaters

XtremepowerUS Solar Pool Heating System Installation

The heat pump for swimming pools is another cheap option that ends up being more expensive in the long run. This pool heater uses electricity to function, capturing the outside heat and warming water that circulates back to the pool. Using this pump pool heater costs on average $1,040 $1,845 annually in electricity and requires that outside temperatures remain above 45ºF 50ºF, making it less efficient than the best solar pool heaters.

You May Like: Solar Panels With Battery Bank

Installing The Solar Collector

The first step when installing a solar pool heater is to properly install the solar collectors. They should be set in the right direction to ensure they absorb as much solar energy as possible and properly fixed to secure them.

a. Choose the right direction and angle for your solar collectors

The solar thermal collectors should be geographically oriented south since this ensures they receive higher solar energy and maximizes heat collection. If you do not have enough roof space on the south, the second best option is for the collectors to face west and east with a 40º tilt or as close to it as possible , this will still produce a good amount of heat. We recommend you ensure that no trees are shading the collectors to get the best possible efficiency.

b. Determine the proper size for your solar collector

Most swimming pools require a solar collectors array with an area equal to 60% 75% of the surface area of the pool, especially when the solar pool heating panels face west. If you use the pool year-round or install the collectors in another direction, you should get an array with the same area as your pool.

c. Set the right mounting for the solar system and install your collectors

d. Connect the collectors in between

Install A Solar Pool Heater This Weekend

If you are looking to add a solar heating system to your swimming pool and have questions about how to install solar panels, read on.

From simple, single on-ground panels for Intex pools to multi-panel roof mounted systems for in ground pools, Ill explain the differences and how to get them up and heating your pool in a weekend!

To quickly qualify myself, I have four 2 x 20 panels on my garage roof and have installed dozens of solar pool systems on local residential pools. Plus, I work at InTheSwim enough said.

Don’t Miss: Is Solar Power Worth The Investment

Choose The Right Size For Your Solar Pool Heater

You should consider the number of solar thermal collectors concerning the surface area of your pool, the performance of the solar collectors, and the temperatures at your location. For most swimming pools, installing a solar collector array equal to 60% 75% of the pools surface area is more than enough. You might also want to couple your pool heating solar system with a solar cover or collection of sun rings, which are excellent pool accessories which ensure your pool can retain heat.

The Best Solar Pool Heaters Reviewed

Solartherm Enclosed Solar Pool Heating Panels in Sydney,Brisbane,Perth

Make your pools warm and enjoyable in an energy-efficient way.

Robert is a renewable energy and sustainability specialist with 10+ years of experience in the solar and renewable energy space.

With experience in different organizations in the industry, he operates semprius as a passion project promoting sustainable renewable energy ideas and products.

We love the summer splash of our pools, mainly due to the fun and refreshingly cool water. However, come winter we all refrain from even going anywhere near a pool due to the icy cold water. But, it doesnt have to be the same this winter. Solar pool heaters not only bring back the fun you have in the pool during the winters but they are environmentally friendly as well.

Finding out the best solar pool heater is a tricky job as the market is flooded with a variety of these pool heaters. Dont worry as weve got you covered. We have collected the best pool heaters available in the market and briefly defined their specifications. You can take a quick look at the list below and find out which one is the right solar pool heater for you, so you can bring the pool season back.

Navigation

Read Also: Solar Hot Water For Heating

How Much Does It Cost To Heat Your Pool With Solar Panels

According to the EIA, a solar pool heating system can set you back between $2,500 to $4,000 while providing a payback of between 1 to 7 years. Keep in mind, this does depend on the availability of solar in your area as well as local fuel prices.

We know this does seem a tad pricey, but these systems typically last longer than their gas and heat pump counterparts, so the investment is worthwhile.

Smart Pools S601 Pool Solar Heater

It is no wonder that the S601 Pool Solar Heater is ranked first in our list of the best 2022 solar pool heaters. Smart Pool has been delivering effective solar pool heaters for over 20 years. Whether you have an in-ground pool or above-ground pool, the solar heater does a great job in warming your pool.

S601 pool solar heater uses a direct flow system to heat your pool. Each heating tube has a header hole. It uses 80 square feet of solar panels and raises the temperature of your pool water by 6-10°F . Each panel measures 20 feet long and 4 feet wide.

You have to connect the solar heater to an existing water pump. You can place the heating collectors either near your pool or on your rooftop. It is easy to install the pump. But you have to buy the installation kit separately. It does not come with the product.

The solar panels are made from polypropylene which makes them very durable. Furthermore, it has a coating of fiberglass over the molded header. These features prolong the longevity of the product.

Pros

Recommended Reading: Solar Energy In The United States

Install Our Solar Heating Pool Products Yourself

Another reason many pool owners turn to Sunheaters solar heating pool products is the do-it-yourself design. You wont need to hire electricians or contractors to install this system, as its designed for the average person to set up. It has many features that contribute to easy installation and efficiency, such as the tube-on-web design that increases surface area and the wind vents that allow for stability in windy weather.

Enjoy free heat from the sun and make pool warming simple with an affordable DIY solution from the trusted experts at Sunheater.

Kokido Keops Solar Dome Above Ground Swimming Pool Water Heater

Installation of a Solar Pool Heating System

Key features:

  • Size: 23.23 x 23.23 x 11.3 in
  • Includes a protective cover for storage purposes
  • Integrated rack included for maximum sun exposure
  • Easy to install

We only have two dome types of solar pool heaters on the list, and the Kokido Keops Solar Dome Above Ground Swimming Pool Water Heater is one of them. It may not be at the top of the list, but it is at the same solid standard as the other pool heaters on the list.

People using this product are expressing their praise for its functionality and reliability, as promised. The Kokido Keops Solar Dome will extend the summer fun for the whole family.

Some of its features include a protective cover, 4-foot hoses, fittings, and stainless steel clamps. It can be easily installed with an integrated rack that maximizes heat capture.

Pros

Read Also: How Much Are Solar Panels In Nc

What Is The Cost Of Solar Panel Installation For Pools

On average, solar-powered swimming pool heating systems can cost between $1500 and $12000. The price of installing a solar panel dropped from $7600 in 2008 to $2500 in 2018. It makes it more affordable to buy and install solar panels.

Tax credits and rebates offered by most governments make it cheaper as well.

Do Your Due Diligence

Some pool heaters are compatible with all types of pools, but others are not. Make sure that the heater you are buying is compatible with the pool you have. If you make a mistake and accidentally buy a heater that is not compatible, dont fret! There are adapters that can help, itll just cost you a bit extra.

You May Like: How Much Solar Panel Generate Electricity

The Suns Energy Is Free

Heating a pool isnt exactly cheap, but the sun isnt exactly going to be sending bills your way any time soon, now is it? This is well and truly the most obvious and significant advantage of heating your pool via solar energy.

Sure, you have to stomach the initial investment costs of a solar thermal system but the heating youll obtain from it is free of charge.

So if you reduce your utility bill at the end of the month, a solar pool heater is the way to go.

What Type Of Pool Can You Heat With Solar Panels

4 Best Solar Heaters For Above Ground Pool

Any pool filled with water can be heated using solar panels, including in-ground pools and spa pools. Once the pool is filled, it will heat up in about hours.

If you have a pool pump, it will be easier for the solar panels to heat your pool faster.

Most people assume that only above-ground pools can benefit from using solar heating.

However, see past or present American Solar Challenge watercraft events where boats made of plastics and other lightweight materials were towed through the Arctic cold with no problem!

Read Also: Casio G Shock Solar Atomic

The Best Heater For Above Ground Pool Consumer Reviews

Selecting a suitable heater is a crucial part of owning and enjoying an above ground pool. The best heater for above ground pool is useful, especially during the winter season, helping you have a nice time regardless, and also at times during the winter when there is an unexpected fall in temperature.

One of the best above ground pool heater is the solar-type, mainly due to an ability to absorb sunlight during the day and store for your use at night.

The best solar heating for above ground pools system works without electricity supply, hence are cheaper to run, and operates by drawing water, circulating it into the collector where it is heated and returned back to the pool.

There are verities of options to choose from amongst the best solar heater for above ground pools, and someone might get stuck and confused on what to purchase, which is why we have taken time out to bring this information to you containing everything you should know before dabbling into the market.

Read Here:The best electric heater for large space

Popular Articles
Related news