Before you spend money on solar pool heating, make sure you have an idea of the total cost of the components. You'll need solar collectors, pumps, filtration systems, and labor, and each of these components has a different price tag. Fortunately, you can find the cheapest option at your local home improvement store. For a better understanding of what to expect, please read the following. Then, you can decide whether the cost is worthwhile.
Unglazed solar collectors
Solar collectors that are unglazed can be used for pool heating. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to make. To maximize efficiency, they are made of heavy-duty rubber and plastic. These are best for hot climates but can also be used in colder areas. This system of solar pool heating is also known by the name thermosyphon. You should remember that these solar panels aren't as efficient as glazed ones.
Unglazed solar collectors are also easier to install than evacuated tube solar collectors. They also don't suffer from the cold losses experienced by evacuated-tube collectors. The unglazed solar collection can offer a higher heat-trapping capacity for your swimming pool. Unglazed solar cells are more affordable than evacuated tubes since they do not contain any glazing. They are ideal for cold climates because they do not suffer from wind-chill factor.
Pumps
Pumps are required for solar pool heating. The pumps can either be operated at a constant speed or can ramp up when solar heating needs are met. Low-speed pumps are typically more effective at solar pool heating and offer longer operation times. High-speed pumps are more expensive and can cause your pool to cool down when solar heating doesn't work. Make sure you consider the size and personal preference of your pool to choose the best pump.
A pump is required to continuously push the water through solar collectors in order to heat it. Solar collectors are only able to absorb sunlight so they won't heat the water at night. Use a pump that has a greater heat output if you require more heat. Water must travel long distances in order to heat it. The panels require 75-100% of the pool’s surface area. More space might be needed for larger pools.
Filtration system
There are several different ways to heat a swimming pool using solar energy. One method involves installing a solar collector on the roof of the pool. The water is then pumped into the collector. During the day, it is heated by the sun and returned to the pool. The installation of a solar collector can have many benefits. It is important to note that you will use your pool pump and filter system more with a solar collector than with a normal system.
The array's size is the biggest factor in the price of a solar pool heating unit. This will vary depending on the size and orientation of your roof. An average solar collector array will cover 80-100% the area of the swimming pool. Depending on how large your swimming pool is, you may need a different size collector. You might want to clean your collectors occasionally in dry climates.
Labor cost
Solar pool heating can be a great option to heat your pool without the use of electricity or gas. This heating system uses a solar collector to circulate the water, which then is heated by the sun's energy. Installation costs for a solar pool heating system can be anywhere from $500 to $1,000, depending on the size of the system, distance to panels, and other factors. Solar pool heating systems are very easy to set up once they're operational.
Installing solar pool heating requires a skilled contractor. Prices for labor depend on the size of your pool and the location. An above-ground pool will require more panels than an in-ground one. You may choose a smaller solar collector if you live in a colder area. To heat your pool in the colder seasons, you can install a larger solar collector.