The idea of using a solar powered swimming pool heater is an excellent one for several reasons – it is economical, energy efficient and ecologically sustainable because it runs on clean, renewable energy. A heating system will obviously create greater opportunities for using the pool: you can use the pool even when it’s too cold to do so by heating the water; practically all the year round. While using electric or gas heaters are good options, the running costs can be very high.
After all it’s a pool full of water that you have to heat whether it’s a personal pool, a community pool or a training pool. So harnessing solar energy is the best option for heating a pool. Solar heaters are also typically longer lasting than gas heaters.
How does it work?
A solar heating system can raise the temperature of the pool water by about 150. The pool water is collected via a solar collector, filtered, and then heated before being restored to the pool. There is the added advantage that the system can be used to cool down the water temperature as well, by running the water through the solar panels at night.
The system does not use conventional fuel such as electricity or gas, but works only on solar energy which is free. So there are no recurring fuel costs once you have installed the system. So in a sense the system will pay for itself in some years (how long will depend upon the sort of fuel costs would likely have incurred).
Is it a good choice for you?
Harnessing solar energy is a good option for anyone; even those who don’t have very sunny weather all the year round. However do have to assess the location of your property. Does sufficient sun reach the property? Are there tall buildings or trees that could obstruct this?
You then have to look at the size of the pool that needs heating. Your local temperature range, the water temperature you want in the pool, the duration of the swimming season are other factors to examine. Based on these factors you can decide upon the size of the solar collector you will need and hence the outlay you are looking at.
