What is Solar Heating and How Does it Work?
Yes, you can add solar heating to an existing pool. There are solar heating systems designed specially for pools that can be retrofitted to heat both new and existing swimming pools using solar energy.
This is made possible because solar heating operates on a rather simplistic, but revolutionary principle. It involves harnessing the sun’s immense natural heat, transforming it, and then using this derived energy to heat your pool. Primarily, solar heating follows a straightforward three-step process:
- Your pool’s pump circulates the water, sending it to the filter.
- Post filtering, the water is made to pass through a solar collector, specially designed in the form of panels to absorb and trap the sun’s heat.
- This solar-heated water is then returned to the pool, and the circuit goes around again, heating your pool gently but effectively over time.
Adding Solar Heating to an Existing Inground Pool
Process of Installation for Inground Pools
To add solar heating to an existing inground pool, we install the solar collectors on the pool’s existing filtration system. First, our engineers calculate the total solar panel area required, which usually depends on factors like pool size, average local temperature, and solar radiance. We then fit the collectors on the roof of your house or a nearby structure and attach it to your pool’s filtration circuit.
Tips for Adding Solar Heating to Inground Pool
You may wonder how to add solar heating to an existing pool without spending a fortune? Or What’s the best place to install the solar panels? The best location would be any non-shaded structure that’s exposed to the sun for the more significant part of the day. The panels also don’t need to be close to the pool; they need to be connected to the pool’s circulation system. In fact, installing the system at a higher altitude than the pool leverages gravity, which can help improve the overall efficiency of your system.
Relative Cost of Adding Solar Heating to Inground Pool
The cost of adding solar heating to an existing pool can be surprisingly cost-effective. Particularly for inground pools, prices may range between $3,000 and $4,000, including the panels, hardware, and installation cost. Although the upfront cost might seem steep, think about the hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, you would save by not using electricity or gas for pool heating.
Adding Solar Heating to an Existing Above Ground Pool
Process of Installation for Above Ground Pools
Adding solar heating to an existing above-ground pool follows a similar process to that of inground pools, albeit the complexities and cost being relatively less. Being on the surface, the pumps for above-ground pools do not have to work as hard, meaning the installation process can be less intensive.
Tips for Adding Solar Heating to Above Ground Pool
One of the critical tips on how to add solar heating to the existing pool is identifying the best spot for the panels. The larger the non-shaded area under the sun is, the better. Also, it’s advisable to keep the panels at an angle to maximize sun exposure throughout the day.
Relative Cost of Adding Solar Heating to Above Ground Pool
The cost to add solar heating to an existing above-ground pool is generally lower, ranging from $1,500 to $2,500. The lesser cost is owing to the small size of the pool, and therefore, fewer and less expensive equipment.
Important Installation Tips for Adding Solar Heating to Pool
For adding solar heating to any pool, the cardinal rule is to use professionals to install the system. While DIY may seem enticing, remember that proper installation will ensure the system’s efficiency and longevity. If possible, choose contractors with experience in solar installations in pools similar to yours in size and type.
Automated Solar Heating for Pools – Setting and Forgetting
Understanding Solar Controller Installation
Ever wished for a system where you could set and forget the heating of your pool? Solar controller installations make it possible. Controllers are devices that automate the operation of the solar heating system, maintaining optimal water temperature by regulating the flow of water through the solar collectors.
Benefits of Solar Automation in Pool Heating
Consider the convenience of having your pool heated to your desired temperature without the cost and hassle of manual controls. The perfect swimming experience is just a dive away with solar automation. Moreover, an automated system ensures the most efficient use of solar energy to heat your pool, saving you money in the long run.
The future of pool heating is here and, with our help, it’s never been easier to get it. Over the past two decades, I’ve helped countless pool owners move from conventional heating methods to solar heating. Trust me when I say there’s nothing quite like a warm midnight swim in a pool heated for free by the sun.
Dive into our comprehensive guide on how to choose your solar panel for pool to start your journey. You’ll discover the best way to make the sun work for your pool and enjoy your best summer, one solar-heated swim at a time!
