Solar Pool Heating

If you have a pool, you should consider installing a solar pool heater.  Pool heating is one of the most cost-effective uses of solar energy .  Typical payback period is anywhere from 1 to 7 years, depending on your amount of sunlight, fuel costs, and construction costs.

Many do-it-yourselfers have successfully installed their own solar pool heating systems, but you have to know what you're doing.  If you don't feel comfortable trying this on your own, there are many qualified contractors available to do the job for you.

System Components

Most solar pool heating systems include these components:

• Solar collector (solar panel) — the device through which pool water is circulated to be heated by the sun
• Filter — removes debris before water is pumped through the collector
• Pump — circulates water through the filter and collector and back to the pool
• Flow control valve — automatic or manual device that diverts pool water through the solar collector.

How They Work

Pool water is pumped through the filter and then through the solar collector(s), where it is heated before it is returned to the pool. In very hot climates, the collector(s) can also be used to cool the pool during peak summer months by circulating the water through the collector(s) at night.

Solar Collector Construction

There are two basic types of solar pool collectors - glazed and unglazed, which simply refers to whether there is a glass covering or not.  The type you choose depends on your climate and how you intend to use the collector.

Glazed collectors, which have tempered glass coveringare are more efficient that unglazed collectors, making them the preferred type in colder climates.  They generally include copper tubing on an aluminum plate. Glazed collectors also can be used to heat domestic hot water year-round.

Unglazed collectors are less expensive and sufficient if your pool is only used when temperatures are above freezing. They are generally made of heavy-duty rubber or plastic and not covered with glass. 

Selecting and Installing a Solar Pool Heater

If you hire a contractor to install a system for you, expect to spend at least $3,000.  You can save 50% or more if you do the work yourself.  Here are some issues for you to consider as you go through the process:

• Amount of sunlight available
• Required system size
• System efficiency
• Cost of labor and parts
• Local code requirements