Solar Pool Heater

A solar pool heater is a device that uses the sun’s power to heat a pool. Solar pool heaters are ergonomically designed to absorb the maximum amount of sunlight without imposing on the user’s comfort. Solar pool heaters allow the user to change the water temperature without even getting out of the pool. They can operate all day long and even run at night, as a built-in battery that stores excess energy during the day powers them. Solar pool heaters are usually used in small pools and hot tubs, but there are industrial models that can heat any size pool, such as the kind found at water parks and resorts.

How does a Solar Pool Heater Work?

A solar pool heater consists of a solar panel, pump, filter, and a network of pipes and hoses. A pump that directs the water through a filter draws water in from the pool. This filter removes any foreign objects, chemicals, and residue that may clog the system or cause unpredictable results when the water heats them. The water is then sent through a coiled hose that is attached to a solar panel on the roof or on a nearby rack. The solar panel heats the water then it flows back into the pool. The solar panel itself may be attached to a number of other devices such as a battery or monitoring system.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Solar pool heaters are relatively complex and take longer to setup than other pool heating options. Also, solar pool heaters may cost more money upfront than other heating systems. However, because solar pool heaters run on solar power, they are much more efficient, environmentally-friendly, and cost effective. Solar pool heaters can last fifteen to twenty years and the energy savings alone can make up for the cost of the system within two/three years.

Is it Safe?

Solar pool heaters are incredibly safe and allow users to swim freely without worrying about being electrocuted or boiled. Because solar pool heaters simply run water across a solar panel, the water itself never reaches a temperature greater than outside’s. This is so unless an external water heater is used, which causes the water to be slightly colder than the air temperature, due to water’s resistance to temperature change. Solar pool heaters do not have any parts that sit in the pool itself so users are never exposed to electrical equipment.

Where to Find a Solar Pool Heater

Solar pool heaters can mainly be found in places that sell pools and pool equipment. They are sold in stores such as Solar Direct, Leslie Pools, and Lowe’s. Likewise, they can be found online at eBay, Amazon, and National Pool Wholesalers. Popular solar pool heater brands include Sungrabber, Heliocol, Enersol, Fafco, and Intex.