Does the solar collector have to face north?
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.
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. Lower-cost unglazed collectors can deliver heat to your pool more effectively.
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.
How much will my solar pool heater cost to operate?
The sun’s energy is free, but if you require a booster pump there will be minimal operating costs.
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 realising 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.
How does a solar pool heater work?
A solar swimming pool heater uses a booster pump, controlled by an automatic solar controller, to control the water through the solar collectors, where it is heated and the returned to the pool. When the water has reached the desired temperature, the automatic controller turns the booster pump off. The temperature is then maintained on an hourly basis.