Frequently Asked Questions

Learn the basics of solar heating for swimming pools

How does a solar pool heater work?
Why would I want to heat my pool?
How does solar pool heating compare with heat pumps?
How much will my solar pool heater cost to operate?
How well does solar energy heat a pool?
What is the best type of collector to use for pool heating?
Does the solar collector have to face south?



How does a solar pool heater work?
A solar swimming pool heater uses your pool’s filter pump to make the water flow through the solar collectors, where it is heated, and then returned to your pool. When the water has reached your desired temperature, it bypasses the solar collectors and returns directly to the pool. More info

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Why would I want to heat my pool?
Once you’ve invested in a pool, it only makes sense to get the most enjoyment you can from it. But if your pool is too cold to use for many months at a time, you are not realizing the full benefit of your investment. Heating your pool with a solar powered pool heater can double your swim season. Plus, having such a unique, eco-friendly feature can add greatly to the value of your home.

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How does solar pool heating compare with heat pumps?
The initial cost of installing an in-ground orabove ground solar pool heater is generally comparable to that of an electric heat pump. However, while the annual cost of electricity to run a heat pump may be only two thirds that of natural gas (and far less than propane), the sun's energy is FREE! And of course, solar pool heating is much more environmentally friendly.

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How much will my solar pool heater cost to operate?
Since the sun's energy is free, there are NO operating costs!

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How well does solar energy heat a pool?
A properly designed solar swimming pool heater will heat your pool just as effectively as one that uses fossil fuels. On days that are warm enough to comfortably relax poolside, but not warm enough to swim, solar energy will heat your pool to a perfect temperature for swimming, so you can dive right in.

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What is the best type of collector to use for pool heating?
Many people make the mistake of spending money on expensive equipment that is not expressly designed for pool heating, such as glass-covered and insulated housings intended for household water heaters. In fact, lower-cost unglazed collectors can deliver heat to your pool more effectively.

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Does the solar collector have to face south?
Not necessarily. As long as the solar collector is installed where it will be exposed to sunlight for a good portion of the day, it will provide plenty of heat. Depending on the angle of the mounting surface, east- and west-facing collectors function just as well.

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