Using the sun to heat your swimming pool is one of the most practical applications of free solar energy. You can use a solar water heater to extend your swimming season and keep 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 a ready-made solar water heating system could cost you anywhere 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 less than $200, including materials, plans and expert guidance.
The solar water heater is fitted into a circulation loop connected to the existing filter system. While the filter is working during the day the 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 minus 10 to 15 degrees. The total area of the solar collectors will depend on various factors, but 50% of your pool area is a good starting point. Increase this to 75% if the collectors are laid flat or facing west. 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 of the space requirements of the collectors, it is often advisable to fix them to a ground frame 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 sunlight availability.
- Building codes and safety regulations.
- Size of the pool.
- Length of the swimming season.
- Required 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 suggest 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. But, as always, there are experts that will make your job easier and safer, and the project planning stage much more complete. 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 clearly illustrated 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 have a fully working and professional solar heating system for your swimming pool – quite an inspiring thought!
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