Solar Pool Heating Reviews
There's nothing better than swimming in a heated pool, except maybe if heating it was nearly free. By taking advantage of the sun's energy you can save substantially on the heating costs associated with keeping your pool a comfortable temperature. Our solar pool heating reviews will help you understand how solar pool heaters work, which brands to watch for and some tips on installation.
How Solar Pool Heaters Work
Most solar pool heating systems work by collecting the heat from the sun with a large plastic collector. The pool will act as the heat storage tank, with the water holding the heat. The pump you already have that filters your water will continue to do that and will now also circulate the water through the solar collectors. Since you already have the pool and the pump, all that will be needed is the solar collector itself. Many systems are inexpensive - some as little as $150 or so. Full kits may run much more, into the low $2,000's.
Solar Pool Heater Brands
- Heliocol - This brand is one of the top sellers world wide. Instead of a large collector, it's design is based on individual tubes that eliminates the stress from expansion and contraction. If you live in an area where there are drastic temperature changes, then this may be a system for you to investigate.
- Vortex - This brand manufactures solar collectors that you mount to your roof. Vortex is one of the best pool heater manufacturers, with extremely efficient designs that can raise your pool temperature 20 degrees instead of the 10 that many other brands are capable of. Vortex panels do tend to be heavier - around 30% more than competitors so you will need to be sure that your structure can handle the load.
- Fafco - This is another panel manufacturer that gets high marks from consumers. They advertise that their system can raise your pool 10 degrees and they offer a 12 year warranty on the collector.
When comparing systems, look at both the product and the company. You want to be sure that any company you work with will be around long enough to make good on their warranty. When comparing collectors, look at the total surface area. Some brands state a size of collector, but the frame takes up more room and so the total surface area collecting is less than other brands.
While the brand and type of pool heater is important, proper installation will be equally so.
Installation
While you may be able to install your solar pool heater as a do it yourself project, don't be afraid to call a local, licensed HVAC professional. Water and electricity don't mix, so if you're concerned at all about properly installing your system, it's worth giving a call and paying a little to have it done for you. After the installation is finished you won't be paying for a fuel source so why not have it done right with an HVAC installation company even if it does cost a little more?
As with all products, it's also a good idea to read some HVAC reviews on various brands and models to see what consumers are saying about the product you're considering.