Pools are a great way to cool down in summer; however, owning a pool isn’t as simple as it seems. In fact, pool owners often spend a small fortune on keeping the water suitable for swimmers throughout the whole year and maintain the pool open as long as they need/want. Knowing the high costs associated with heating up pools, solar pool heaters are becoming increasingly popular. This renewable energy source enables warm pool water throughout the whole year and reduces the overall costs of water heating when relying on other heating sources like electricity or gas.
With this in mind, if you’re a pool owner and wonder if you should order a solar heater today, stay tuned! We’ll share important information and present you with the top 18 solar pool heaters for this year that you mustn’t miss out on!
Why Do You Need a Solar Pool Heater?
Solar pool heaters are systems that heat up pool water via the sun’s rays. Usually, these systems have four main elements, that is, the collector which moves the water, the filter which cleans the dirt as the water in the pool circulates, the manual or automatic valve for control of the flow of the water, and the pump which ensures the movement of water going from the pool to the collector and from the collector to the pool. The heater warms up the water by pumping it through the filter and flowing it through the tubes that transmit the heat from the collectors to the pool. Some solar heaters may also have automated sensors and valves for control of the flow. These elements help detect the temperature of the water from the collectors and ensure optimal pool water temperature (higher or lower). Namely, let’s say it’s sunny outside and the water in the pool is cool. The valve for flow control will redirect the water through the collectors and the heating panels will warm it up before it goes back into the pool. On the other hand, if the pool water is very hot, the valves will make sure that the extra hot water doesn’t enter the pool and cause the water to become even hotter.
One of the major reasons why pool owners decide to invest in a solar pool heater is to warm up the water in colder months.But, there’s another, less known benefit, that people living in very hot climates will certainly appreciate: the heater will ensure the water stays cool and comfortable by moving it throughout the night.
Still not sure if a solar pool heater is what you need? Check out other great advantages when you decide to invest in this heating system:
🌱 Longer pool season that lasts up to 5 and 6 months
🌱 Warm and cozy pool water temperature and undisturbed enjoyment for swimmers without the need for oil or gas
🌱 Saves you money in the long run because you won’t need gas or electricity to heat up the water
🌱 This system is eco-friendly and there are no toxic emissions
🌱 The maintenance isn’t not demanding and you can install some of the models on your own
Solar Pool Heaters Explained
A solar pool heater is a system that uses the thermal energy from the sun to make pool water warm. The solar collectors that are used for the heating of the water can be installed on the roof or set on the ground near the pool. They’re very similar to photovoltaic panels. In the case of a solar pool heater, the water from the pump goes through a filter and reaches the collectors on the roof. The collectors are similar in design and construction to the photovoltaic panels; however, they have tubes on the inside in order for cold water to flow through them and heat up. This heated water goes into the pool.
Thanks to solar heating, you won’t need to use fuel or gas to heat up the pool. In addition to going green, you will also save money in the long run, although the exact amount will depend on several elements, including the system’s efficiency, the upfront costs, the current heat source for the pool, etc.
How Much Will It Cost You to Install & Operate a Solar Pool Heater in 2023?
Data provided by the Department of Energy notes that if you want to invest in a solar pool heater system, you will need to spend anywhere between $2,500 and $4,000 for the installation. The period of payback for the investment is conditioned by numerous factors like how much you used to spend to heat up the pool or the cost of energy where you live. However, usually, most owners of a solar pool heater break even on the costs in somewhat less than seven years. The upfront payments are the highest costs associated with this type of heater.
On the other hand, the operation and maintenance costs may be $0 within a year if there’s no need for replacement of parts or repairs. A proper installation of premium quality solar pool heaters will operate efficiently for a decade to two.
What Is the Size of the Solar Pool Heater That You Need?
The size of the solar pool heater is an important aspect to take into account. The choice you make depends on several factors such as the pool’s size, the temperature you want for the pool water, the amount of sunshine that the collectors will absorb, etc. Even though you may install as many collectors as the space allows, if they’re not getting the needed sun exposure for the larger part of the day, the collectors won’t help you meet the heating needs.One general guideline is that the surface of the collectors should be 50 to 100 percent of the pool’s area.
Let’s make this simpler: you have a pool that is 200 square feet.The solar collectors need to have a minimum surface of 100 square feet. In some cases, especially if your home is in a climate such as that in Florida and the pool is active throughout the whole year, sizing up the system may be a smart choice. And, the opposite is usually done if the pool is used only for a couple of months in the summer season. Below, check out several size estimates for some common home pool sizes:
THE SIZE OF THE POOL
POOL SURFACE AREA
LOW-END COLLECTOR SIZE NEEDED
HIGH-END COLLECTOR SIZE NEEDED
10×20 ft
200 sq. ft
100 sq. ft
200 sq. ft
15×20 ft
300 sq. ft
150 sq. ft
300 sq. ft
20×40 ft
800 sq. ft
400 sq. ft
800 sq. ft
If you’re unsure about the right size of the solar collectors for your pool, contact the contractor. These professionals will advise you on the optimal system size by taking into account the pool specification and the pool’s location. Sometimes, particularly in areas where there’s shading or a lot of cloudy days, contractors may offer you to have a backup electric heater system.
The 18 Best Solar Pool Heaters for 2023
The right solar pool heater is an affordable, effective, and energy-efficient method to heat up the water in pools. Since there are plenty of options available, you will need to consider the climate where you live, the swimming season’s duration, the pool’s size, as well as the budget you’ll need to spend to buy and install the system. In order to help you with the research and picking out the most suitable solar pool heater system for your needs and budget, we’ve made a list with 18 top options currently and included what each of them offers.
Constructed strong enough to withstand stormy winds and cold temperatures
Doesn’t crack thanks to the over-molding process which molds the riser tubes and headers together
Reduced pressure, better efficiency, and lower clogging thanks to the low head-loss riser tubes
No need to connect the panels together and use hoses and clamps
Easier maintenance (no straps involved) and replacements (if needed)
Great choice to save in energy and maintenance
Certified by the National Sanitation Foundation for Safety and Performance, the International Organization for Standardization for Quality and Environmental Health, and the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation for Safety, Durability, and Performance
Comes with a lifetime warranty with a freeze protection
You can pick between four and 18 panels in the kit depending on the pool size and depth
It warms up the water by 10 degrees and sometimes even 15, especially on very sunny days
Optimal design, durability, and quality
Saves you money in the long run
Everything already included in the kit
You will need a flexible 1.5-inch to 1.25-inch hose so that the water can flow from the pool to the panels and the heated water can go back into the pool
Made by a company that produces premium quality sun pool heaters
Made in the US
Comes with a five-year limited warranty
It includes two 2-foot by 20-foot solar panels
The panels are designed with polypropylene for optimal longevity and durability
Easy installation
The system is Direct Flow and therefore every heating tube has a single header hole for the water flow which is highly effective, but it does require a potent pump for efficient circulation
It will warm up the temperature of the pool water by 6 to 10 degrees
Designed for an in-ground pool, but it can also be used for above-ground ones with the right piping
If you want to install it on the roof, it requires the SK21 System Kit
You can include extra panels for additional efficiency if you have a bigger pool
Constructed with patented designs for optimal heating
The specially-designed panel is made with polyolefin which is a strong and durable material that has been UV-stabilized to maximize efficiency and capacity for years
Long life expectancy: between 15 and 20 years before it needs to be replaced
The company has been making its products for more than half a century and has therefore perfected their palette
For optimal performance of the system, it’s essential to tilt the collector 10 to 30 degrees to the South during the peak hours of sunlight
Low need for maintenance
Can be installed anywhere, including the roof or on the ground near the pool
A solar heating blanket designed for pools with 33 feet by 33 feet sq.
It floats on the surface of the pool and absorbs the sun’s rays
It looks like a big blanket or a big piece of blue or clear bubble wrap
It helps heat up the temperature of the pool water by six to 10 degrees F within a week
The setup is easy: you just spread the cover throughout the pool, from wall to wall, with the bubbles facing down
This cover warms up the water in several ways, i.e., by trapping heat as any cover does, by pulling in solar warmth through its special technology, and by preserving the heat by reducing evaporation
Great for moderately warm to hot climates
Not the smartest choice for areas with colder climates, more cloudy days, and low sunlight
Every dome can increase the temperature of the pool by 10 degrees in seven days
Several of the collectors can be connected in series to boost the efficiency of the heating
Great way to warm up pools with the use of solar energy
You will need a bypass valve to hook two or more heaters or pools that have a 1 HP or a bigger pump
The system comes with several installation kits for the racks and roofs to ease the DIY installation
As a dome-shaped heater, it fits best with round pools and ones above ground
The solar panels come in several size options so that you can use them to collect solar energy via the absorption of heat or use them as covers for above-ground pools
It measures 4 feet by 4 feet and it’s constructed using polypropylene
It’s designed to effectively catch the sun’s rays and transfer the warmth into the pool water
It can elevate the temperature of the water in an 8,000-gallon pool by 5 to 9 degrees F
Easy installation thanks to the package which includes all the necessary fittings and connectors
Saves you space when it’s not in use: can be rolled like a mat and stored in the garage
Takeaway/ Is a Solar Pool Heater a Worthy Investment?
Without a doubt, a quality solar pool heater can make all the difference in the duration of the swimming season of your pool. These systems are an efficient and sustainable option to cozy up the pool water and prolong the swimming season. It’s a smart option if you’re spending a bit too much on other heating sources to prolong the pool’s swimming season. They quickly offset the overall cost, especially the models designed to enable a quick return on the investment. You will lower the costs associated with other heating options like gas or electricity and avoid extra charges due to the low annual costs for operation and maintenance. If your climate is right, a solar pool heater would be one of the most cost-effective choices you can make. With the vast amount of quality solar pool heaters available today, investing in them is a great way to enjoy an earlier and longer swimming season and warmer water, as well as contribute to a greener environment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why should one consider investing in a solar pool heater?
A solar pool heater uses the sun’s thermal energy to warm pool water, offering several advantages: •It extends the pool season, lasting up to 5-6 months. •Provides a consistent warm water temperature without needing oil or gas. •Reduces heating costs in the long run as it doesn’t rely on gas or electricity. •It’s eco-friendly with zero toxic emissions. •Low maintenance and some models can even be self-installed. •Additionally, in hotter climates, the heater can help keep the pool water cool by circulating it at night.
What are the key considerations when choosing a solar pool heater for my swimming pool?
When choosing a solar pool heater, consider your location’s climate, the size and type of your pool, and your budget. Ensure you have adequate space for installation and that the heater is compatible with your pool’s pump system. Always consult experts to find the best fit for your needs.
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