What Are The Advantages Of A Solar Panel For A Pool Over Traditional Heating Methods
Since there are no gas or electric bills involved with solar panels, they are safe and cost-effective.
Traditional heating sources like gas-powered pumps and electric heaters are expensive to maintain, especially during the winter months when electricity bills tend to rise.
Pumps that operate on gas can be dangerous as they require propane tanks.
Types Of Solar Collectors
There are three different types of pool solar collectors flat plate collectors, evacuated tube collectors, and batch collectors.
- Flat-plate collectors: The flat plate collectors are the common solar heating solutions for swimming pools. You can install them on the top of your roof or the ground near your pool. They do a decent job in heating the pool. But the main drawback is that they consume a lot of space.
- Evacuated tube collectors: The evacuated tube collectors are the most efficient heating solutions. They use vacuum tubes to generate the heat. Even though they consume less space than flat plates, they produce more heat. The evacuated tubes are the ideal option if you have a large pool.
- Batch collectors: The batch collectors can heat your swimming pool to a high temperature. But they are less efficient than the other two. Besides, it heats the pool more than needed.
The Guide To Solar Heating For Swimming Pools
Mis à jour le May 7, 2020 | Solar technology | 1
But what if there was a way to heat your pool for free?
A solar energy-powered heater can help you do just that. Delve into this guide to discover the many different solar swimming pool heating options at your disposal.
SUMMARY
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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.
How Do You Heat An Inground Pool With Solar Panels
What is the work of solar pool heaters? First, pool water is pumped out from the pool through a filter, then to a solar thermal collector where solar energy heats the water before its returned to the pool. The check valve, flow control valve, and sensor are required to keep the pool temperature in check.
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How Many Hybrid Solar Panels Does It Take To Heat A Pool
The number of panels needed to heat your pool depends on its surface area and volume. The geographical location should also be taken into account. For instance, the panels will have a higher efficiency in the south of France because the region boasts more regular sunshine.
To determine the number of panels to be installed, one must know the swimming pools heat loss surface, meaning the surface exposed to the air. In the case of an underground pool, this means the surface of the pool only.
With this in mind, the next step requires accounting for the regional climate. In the south of France, for instance, it is recommended that the surface occupied by the solar panels represent at least 50% of the swimming pools heat loss surface. In the north, this number is something like 75%. In both of these cases, the panels will increase the temperature by 2 to 4°C depending on the amount of sunshine available.
Consequently, in the south, one should install 5m² of DualSun panels per every 10m² of swimming pool surface area. In the north, 7.5m² of panels per every 10m² of swimming pool surface area.
As an example, an 8 x 4m underground swimming pool in the south of France will require: 8 x 4 x 50% = 16m² of panels, or 3kWc.
The 4 Best Solar Pool Heaters 2022
A solar pool heater is an affordable and efficient solution to heat your swimming pool. But you have to check if the heater can generate enough heat to raise your pool temperature even during the winter season.
We all know that solar heaters work using solar panels. As solar panels receive less sunlight exposure during winter, they generate less heat. So, you need to get a heater that has more solar panels or bigger sized panels. This increases the heaters efficiency and helps it to generate enough heat to raise the water temperature.
Furthermore, an above ground pool requires a more efficient heater than an inground pool. This is because the heat escapes through the sides and top of an above ground pool. But, in an inground pool, the soil acts as insulation and does not let heat escape through the sides.
Below are the primary features you need to check while hunting for the perfect solar pool heater to heat your pool.
Apart from these primary factors, there are other several factors you need to consider that are mentioned in the Buying Guide.
But before that, you can go through our list of some of the Best Solar Pool Heaters to buy in 2022. We have considered different parameters and prepared the list to help you simplify the choice.
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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.
Disadvantages Of Solar Pool Heater
- Less efficient heating in evenings and overcast days. Solar power operates on heat from the sun, so when the sun isnt shining, your pool wont heat as well.
- More expensive initial cost. The initial cost of solar pool heaters generally ranges from $3,500 to $7,000. For many people, the initial cost seems hefty, but its a worthwhile long-term investment. You will make your money back and then some after just a couple of years. The installed cost for gas heaters or heat pumps generally range from $2,000-$4,500
- Takes longer to heat. After the initial installation, solar pool heaters take several days to heat the pool before they maintain the heightened temperature. Gas heaters surge energy from your home in order to heat your pool quickly, which is why your monthly gas bill is so much more expensive with a gas pool heater.
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Why Choose A Solar Pool Heater
Solar pool heating is a specialized area of solar energy that utilizes purpose-built solar panels to absorb heat from solar radiation.
Solar pool heating panels are black in color and made from polymer material, the blend of which is proprietary to each manufacturer. If you drive around virtually any community in Florida, you will start to notice many homes with large black panels on the roof. Those are solar pool heating systems.
Solar heat for pools is extremely popular in Southwest Florida. In fact, we are one of the top markets in the country for this type of solar panel.
There is no electricity involved. Pool water actually flows through the solar collectors, absorbing heat along the way. These systems use your existing pool pump and works with virtually any existing pool equipment.
What Is Better Salt Or Chlorine Pool
Lower chlorine levels makes saltwater pools more pleasant to swim in. The levels of chlorine in the water are enough to kill harmful organisms, but not enough to fade expensive swimwear and gear. Because of the natural chlorine, saltwater pools dont have to use as many chemicals as chlorinated pools.
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Solarpro Curve Solar Pool Heater
This particular above ground solar heater can increase the pool temperature by 5 degrees in four days for an 8,000-gallon pool. Its made with high-quality materials and will hold against exposure to the sun along with outdoor elements. Its constructed in a unique curved shape thatll help with maximizing heat collection.
Other great features of this solar above ground heater include its adjustable and foldable legs that allow the heater to have maximum exposure to the sun. Its also a great gradual heater thatll help extend your pool season by increasing the pool water temperature by a couple of degrees.
Pros:
Smartpool S240u Pool Solar Heaters
- Durable polypropylene materials
- Eco-friendly heating device
- Efficiency is weather dependent
The SmartPool solar pool heater is another consideration when shopping around for your choices because it is efficient and durable. You can count on it when finding a popular product because it is by a reputable brand that works hard to deliver its promises. One of the things I liked about the heater is that it is easy to set up. You dont need to worry about any difficulty in installing it on the fence, rack, ground or roof.
The 4 x 20 inches pool heater is large enough to heat the pool water fast, depending on the weather in your area. You must make sure that it will be able to collect as much heat from the sun.
I also liked that it can be installed on a rack, roof, fence, or ground. With such versatility, you have the option to choose which installation method you want for your heater. I also would like to note its web design, which can promote better sun exposure. You also dont need to buy a new pump because it works with an old one.
I recommend this pool heater also to anyone who wants a heating capacity between six- and 10-degrees Fahrenheit. With it, you can ensure that your loved ones will enjoy a more extended summer season. It can offer heating to your pool up to the late fall.
In terms of durability, the solar panel heater is made of polypropylene material. It can ensure long service life. This item can increase the temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Fafco Solar Bear Economy Heating System
- Efficient heating for its ideal design
- Compact and sleek appearance
- Large solar heat collector without connectors and couplings
- Easy installation and little to no maintenance
- Includes a user manual
- Requires additional materials, such as a flexible hose and spikes
The Fafco heating system is a topnotch pool heater that is also another consideration for a high-quality pool heater. One of its selling points is its versatility for installation. You can mount it on the ground or a nearby roof. If you wish to, you can also set it up in a rack.
Another thing I liked about the FAFCO solar heater is that it comes with what we need for installation. Every package comes with a collector plus barb connection, 12 mounting bases, 12 mounting caps, one valve handle, 20 pieces of rubber tube plugs, and six mounting straps.
I also liked that this model has a pool pump that can circulate the water coming through the collector. Also, I would like to note that this model can promote heating efficiency. But then, you should ensure that it is tilted up to 30 degrees to the south and ideally between 10 am and 4 pm.
I also liked that it comes complete with a bypass valve, which we can quickly turn on or off without any hassles. In addition to these benefits, the Solar Bear heater is also with an easy to understand manual.
Types Of Solar Panels For Swimming Pools
- Unglazed solar collectors: this is the cheapest, simplest option. Unglazed collectors are not covered by a glass layer and are made of plastic or rubber. They have the disadvantage of being less efficient in cold climates but are much more cost efficient than their competitors. They are the best choice if you are only going to use your pool in above-freezing temperatures.
- Glazed solar collectors: these panels are more expensive, mainly due to the materials they are made of . They are more efficient in cold climates and can be used all year long, even to for domestic water heating. However, both glazed and unglazed collectors can benefit from a freeze protection if they are intended to be used in extra cold conditions.
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Solar Pool Heater Parts
The solar pool heater has the following parts:
- A pump: Pumps help circulates water through the collector and filter and back to the pool.
- A flow control valve: When you have plans to install a solar pool heater, one requires an automatic or manual device to divert water to the solar collector.
- A solar collector A collector is a device through which pool water is circulated for it to be heated by solar energy.
- A filter: Before water is pumped through the collector, its vital to remove any leaves, debris, and dirt present. A filter helps get rid of any occurring debris. Dirty filters use a lot of power to circulate the water. In order to maintain a solar pool effectively, you need to ensure that the cartridge filter is clean.
Smartpool Solar Pool Heater
This above-ground heater is just what you need to keep your pool warm. Its easy to install and uses your existing filtration system. Upon purchase, youll get end caps, elbows for flex hose connection, stainless steel hose clamps, a roll of Teflon tape, and rubber connector hoses. This particular heater comes with a unique design thatll allow it to capture as much sunlight as possible.
The heater is also durable and comes with two panels that are made of high-quality polypropylene. Those that have purchased this heater are impressed and mentioned that its excellent at heating their pool. Some have even said that its warmed up their pool by about 10 to 20 degrees and extended their swimming season by almost two months.
Pros:
- Can warm up your pool by about 10-20 degrees
Cons:
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Sunheater S120u Universal Solar Pool Heater
- Made in the USA
- Can be used universally
- Effectiveness may vary for weather conditions
The SunHeater solar heater for pool is a large heater that measures two by 20 feet. You can count on its efficiency even if you have a large pool. This solar pool heater is one of the best ways of heating the pool. It does not require using gas or electricity. You dont need to add cost to your utility bills by choosing a solar heater like it.
With the universal pool heater, you can extend the pool season without any problems. You just need to install this one and see how it works. I liked that it can heat the water between six- and 10-degrees Fahrenheit. Using it, you and your loved ones can enjoy swimming in the pool at an ideal temperature. They will feel comfortable even if it is the late fall. Nevertheless, having this item installed is very convenient. Plus, this model works for above-ground and inground pools, too.
The Sun Heater is one of the best in capturing free heat from the sun, so it does benefit you in the end. It doesnt add to your utility cost, too. You can also use it for above-ground or inground pools.
I would also like to recommend this item that has a patented design that allows for the maximum accumulation of sunlight. With this design, you can ensure excellent heating efficiency. You can also use an old heat pump with this item. And for quality, this item is also made in the USA.
Individual Solar Water Heater With Discharge In Swimming Pool
DualSun has have developed a system that makes the most of solar energy. It is called the Individual Solar Water Heater with Discharge in Swimming Pool and is the best solution on the market.
Schematic diagram of a ISWH with Discharge in Swimming Pool solar heating installation
In this configuration, the solar installation is connected to both the solar hot water tank and the swimming pool. Within this system, the panels first heat the solar water heater. Once the water in the solar water tank is heated, it is fed into the pool.
What are the benefits?
- Better photovoltaic efficiency compared to a traditional ISWH due to the more effectively water-cooled panels
- Energy autonomy and free solar heating for your swimming pool
Conversely, this configuration requires the swimming pool to be located close to the house. This very system is implemented in an exemplary project in Cabriès. Have a look!
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Which Size Solar Collector Is Right For Your Home
Depending on how many months out of the year you plan to use your pool and how warm you prefer your water to be, the Department of Energy recommends the solar collector be between 50% and 100% of the square footage size of the pools surface.
For example, if a pool is 15-by-20 feet, it has 300 square feet of surface area. Therefore, the solar collector should be between 150 and 300 square feet in size.
Homeowners looking to keep their pool open throughout the year should consider a solar collector that is the full size of the pool or larger.
For example, a 15-by-30-foot outdoor swimming pool in Florida typically requires a collector that equals 100% of the pool’s square footage to accommodate year-round use. This equals 450 square feet of collectors.
In northern California, most people use outdoor pools 68 months per year, so they typically size their systems at 60%70% of the pool’s surface area.
