You have been hearing about solar pool heating for swimming pools and it sounds like it might be a good option for your pool. Installing a pool was a large investment and you want to use it as much as possible. You are also concerned about the cost benefits, if any. But the idea of an environmentally-friendly heating system appeals to you, too. Maybe it is an excellent choice for your pool. But how can you be sure?
In this article, we will look at why many swimming pool owners have switched to solar pool heaters. There are some downsides to it, though, and we’ll break those down as well. Then, you will have the information you need to make the best choice for your pool.
The Benefits of Using Solar for Pool Heating
Why not use the energy from the sun to heat the water in your pool? Solar pool heaters work precisely that way. The system pumps water through the pool filter and the solar collectors where the water is warmed by the sun. After the water is heated, it is circulated back into the pool. In warmer climates or during warm summer months, this system can also cool down the pool by sending water through the collectors at night.
Here are the major benefits of switching to a solar heater for your swimming pool.
Simple to Set Up
No more huge solar panels requiring professional installation, all with a matching price tag. Many of today’s solar pool heaters are an easy DIY Saturday project and require only a hacksaw, some ordinary hand tools, the required plumbing supplies, and a ladder. Solar collectors can be installed on roofs, though they can be placed anywhere with sufficient sunlight. The systems come with instructions and most companies provide technical support if you have a question.
The System Can Be Affordable
Once the system is purchased, there are no other monthly costs to consider. No fluctuating (or any!) utility costs to worry about every time the power bill shows up. According to the US Department of Energy, your initial investment for an average solar pool heater for inground pools is generally between $2,500 and $4,000 to buy and install. An average above-ground round pool is only about half that cost.
This investment will be recouped between one and seven years, depending on what your power bills have been running with a traditional heater. These solar systems also last longer than gas pump heaters.
Low Maintenance
Operation and maintenance requirements are minimal because solar pool heating systems are simple in design. Solar energy systems do require routine inspections and some maintenance, just like any piece of equipment. From time to time, components may need repair or replacement as well. It is also important to do what you can to prevent corrosion, scaling, and freezing. Even with those things, solar pool heating systems are fairly low maintenance.
Environmentally-Friendly
Let’s face it: Capturing heat from the sun to heat a swimming pool using a system that emits no air pollution doesn’t get any more eco-friendly. Solar power is an abundant, clean energy source that doesn’t contribute to pollution or the depletion of natural resources, like fossil fuels. Any family that wants to lessen their carbon footprint has a powerful tool in switching to solar heating for their swimming pool.
It’s Powered by FREE Energy!
We saved the best for last: Solar energy is free. Renewable energy from the sun will heat your pool, so your energy bill will be much less. In contrast, a gas pool heater can cost up to $200 per month.
Many cities and states offer rebates and incentives to homeowners to encourage the switch to solar heating. Check your local utility website for details.
The benefits of solar pool heating are numerous, but there are a couple of other factors to take into consideration as well.
Other Factors to Consider in Switching to Solar Heat for Your Swimming Pool
Before making the decision on switching to solar heat in your pool, you need to also think about the following:
Less Efficient on Cloudy Days
If the sun isn’t shining, there is no power source to heat the water. And if the cloudy spell lasts longer than a few days, it will take a few more days for the water to heat back up to a comfortable temperature. A climate that is routinely overcast isn’t the best place for a solar pool heater.
More Expensive Initial Cost
There is no doubt about it: Solar pool heaters cost more to purchase. However, keep in mind that from that point onward you will not be using a billable energy resource to heat your pool. You will recoup your initial investment after a few years of using the sun instead of gas or electricity.
Considering Solar Heat for Your Pool Makes Sense
Now you have the information you need to weigh your options for using solar power to heat your pool. There are many benefits to switching, including lower maintenance, easy installation, affordable costs once the system is purchased, and above all, it’s a free source of power!
Though, there are some aspects to consider that may mean a switch to solar heating wouldn’t work for you, such as your climate and the initial investment. But, overall, solar pool heating is an extremely advantageous addition for many pool owners.
And once you’ve got your solar pool heating system warming your pool water up, Pool School Videos’ Mike Steele, “The Pool Doctor,” can provide all the information you need to keep your pool water sparkling and clean while saving money and time doing it. Based on his 30 years of professional pool maintenance experience, he has created 20 online, self-paced videos to share all of that knowledge with you. With Mike’s video series, you are making a one-time purchase that will save you money for years.
The information is easy to understand and guides you through the process of taking care of your pool better than ever before. Why spend time constantly trying to adjust the chemical balance or fixing equipment? Spend more time with your family enjoying the pool instead!
Once you buy Pool School Videos, you can watch the videos whenever you want and as many times as you need to. Plus, with your purchase, you also become a member of the Pool School Videos private Facebook group. There, you can ask specific questions and get a personal response within 24 hours with Mike’s customized guidance!
Check out a sneak peek of our top 5 videos and then get started on maximizing the time and money you save on pool maintenance efforts with Pool School Videos today!
