Using sunshine to heat your pool water is a very practical way of getting free energy from the sun. You can use a solar water heater to extend your swimming season and retain the pool warmth overnight 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 at 80 to 85 degrees even in moderate climates.
Installing a swimming pool solar heating system also adds value to your home.
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. But you could build your own swimming pool solar heater for an average-sized pool for under $200, including materials, plans and expert guidance.
The solar water heater is fitted into a circulation loop connected to the existing filter system. During the day while the filter is operating, the pool water is passed 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 locally.
The solar collectors are often mounted on roofs to get the best exposure to direct sunshine. Ideally the collectors should face the mid-day sun and be tilted 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. This will be nearer 75% for horizontal or west-facing collectors. In some cases, where there are significant shade or strong prevailing winds, the collector area can be as much as 100% of pool size. Because solar collectors tend to take up a lot of space, it is often advisable to mount them on a frame on the ground or even a suitable fence.
These are some factors which need to be considered in the design of a swimming pool solar heater:
- Climate and sunshine levels.
- Building codes and safety issues.
- Pool size.
- Length of the swimming season.
- Required pool temperature.
- Collector efficiency.
These considerations really need the input of an experienced designer for 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.
You can build your own swimming pool solar heating system without any special skills or tools, and you will find it very easy to do. You will find all needed materials in your local hardware shop. 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 will provide you with a simple set of plans and a comprehensive set of step-by-step instructions to guide you every step of the way in making your solar swimming pool heater. For less than $200, including all plans, instructions, materials and expert guidance, you can make a fully working and professional solar heating system for your swimming pool – quite an inspiring thought!
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