Using the sun to heat your swimming pool is one of the most practical applications of free solar energy. A solar water heater will let you enjoy a longer swimming season and preserve your water temperature during cooler evenings without having to think about the costs. Swimming pool solar heating systems can heat a large amount of water each day, and are quite capable of keeping the water temperature in the 80 – 85 degree range even in moderate climates.

Fitting a solar pool heater is also a good way of adding value to your property.

Buying and fitting a shop-bought solar water heater could set you back from $2,000 to $4,000 depending on collector size and installation costs. However, you can make your own solar heating system for an average-sized pool for under $200, including materials and an extra recirculating pump.

Solar pool heaters are connected directly to your existing pool filter system. While the filter is working during the day the pool water is circulated through the solar collectors and back to the pool. You can have a swimming pool solar heater system which has no moving parts, such as a recirculating pump, but this will depend on the average sunshine levels in your area.

The solar collectors are often mounted on roofs to get the best exposure to direct sunshine. Ideally the collectors should face the sun at mid-day and be at an angle equivalent to your latitude less 10 to 15 degrees. Several factors will influence the size of the collector panels, but it will be at least 50% of the pool surface area. Increase this to 75% if the collectors are laid flat or facing west. It is not unusual for the collector area to be the same as that of the pool when the site is shaded badly or exposed to strong winds. Because these solar collectors are space-hungry, it is often advisable to mount them on a ground frame or even a suitable fence.

There are several factors which can influence a solar heater installation, including:

  • Weather and sunshine levels.
  • Building codes and safety issues.
  • Pool size.
  • Length of the swimming season.
  • Desired pool temperature.
  • Collector efficiency.

This is why you should consider getting some guidance in designing your swimming pool solar heating system, because only someone with professional experience will be able to put forward the best solar pool heating system for your particular circumstances.

It is very easy to make and fit your own swimming pool solar heating system and you need no special skills or tools. Your local hardware store should have all the necessary materials. However, using the appropriate experts will make your job much easier and more fun. We have no hesitation in recommending one group of professionals who have produced a simple set of plans and a comprehensive set of step-by-step instructions to guide you throughout the build in making your solar swimming pool heater. For under $200, including all plans, instructions, materials and expert guidance, you can build a superb solar water heater system for your pool – quite an inspiring thought!

 

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