Using solar heaters for an in-ground pool is quite expensive. Lucky for you, I have reviewed some great solar powered heater for in-ground pools, so you too can still enjoy a good warm swim without burning your pocketbook. But first, here are three tips to remember when selecting an in-ground solar pool solar heater. Use these solar energy tips when looking for the right solar pool heater.
Find out the type of sun and temperature you will have in your area. Different solar panel systems will work better under different conditions, so it is important that you find out the solar panel’s ability to absorb and distribute solar radiation. Find out about the size of the solar panel you need. A bigger size solar panel will be able to absorb more solar radiation. Now that you know what type of sunlight you will be receiving, go over to our solar heating guide and learn the pros and cons of each solar panel system.
Choose a solar panel system that has one of the following parts: solar panels, an aluminum bypass valve or a solar panel mount. The location where you will install your solar panel will depend on the amount of sunlight your area receives and your comfort level. Remember to also cover any exposed copper wires with wire shelters. Also, be sure to have a way to remove water from the solar system. This is critical for cleaning the solar panel system and any exposed copper wiring. Depending on the size and amount of sun you are receiving, there are a number of ways to heat your pool.
The solar heating system can be mounted to the top of your above ground swimming pool. Some solar panels are even made adjustable so you can adjust the solar panels to gain or lose heat depending on the amount of sunlight your pool is getting. With the solar panels mounted to the top of your pool you’ll also need to install an aluminum bypass valve. This bypass valve will allow water to flow from the swimming pool to the heater so it can heat up.
If you choose a solar panel type heaters with an aluminum bypass valve you will want to have a good water flow connection in the drain of the heater. With solar collector heaters you can either have a direct water pipe connection or you can use a solar collector hose. Solar hose allows more direct connection between the solar energy collector and the water pipes. However, solar collection hoses come with their own problems such as damage and frequent leaks.
Next you’ll want to make sure your solar collector has good mounting locations. In most cases, you should position your solar panel somewhere that is shaded by trees, buildings or any other shade blocking object. Having good mounting locations will allow you to reduce the amount of heat loss through the sides of the building and have more long-lasting use of your solar collector. There are many ways to find good mounting locations. If you are building your own solar system, you can make a simple post and stake list of places you would like to mount your dome.
The cons of DIY solar dome heaters are fairly minimal compared to its pros. You can purchase solar heaters with different wattage output. You can also find solar heaters that are designed to heat more water than others. These solar heaters are better for pools that are shallow and are not large in size. If you plan to use your heater year round, a solar heat pump is highly recommended.
If you decide to use solar heaters, there are many great resources available online to help you select a system and install it. The pros of DIY solar panels and heaters can make your decision easy. However, if you do not know much about your electrical system or plumbing, having a professional install your solar panel heater may be a better choice.
