How to Pick the Right Solar Pool Heater?

If you want to know more about choosing the right solar pool heater, you’re at the right place. There are some things that are crucial that you need to consider and by considering these factors, you will be able to pick the best solar pool heater for your home. With that said, let’s take a look at the factors to consider when picking your solar pool heater.

 

Size of the solar pool heater

The first factor to consider when looking for a solar pool heater is its size. Using a solar pool heater with an appropriate size will give you the best results and the appropriate size will be based on the following factors:

  • The size of your pool
  • Duration of the swimming season
  • The average temperature of the region
  • The ideal temperature of the pool
  • Orientation and tilt of the solar collector
  • Collector efficiency
  • Use of any kind of pool cover

Generally, the solar collector’s surface area should be between 50% to 100% of your pool’s surface area. However, this ratio may vary depending on whether your area is cold and cloudy or hot and sunny. For cooler and cloudier areas, the ratio between the solar collector’s surface area and the pool’s surface area should be higher.

Also, you will need a pool pump that is properly sized for your solar pool heater. If you do replace your existing pool heater with a solar pool heater, a bigger pump or a separate small pump will be needed.

 

Efficiency of the system

The second factor to consider is the efficiency of the solar pool heater. This can be determined based on the system’s thermal performance rating, which is measured by Btu (British thermal unit) per square foot per day (Btu/(ft2day)) or kWh (kilowatt hours) per square meter per day (kWh/(m2day)).

Generally, the higher the value, the more efficient the solar pool heater is at collecting solar energy. With a higher efficiency solar pool heater, you can expect lower operating costs and also a collector with a smaller surface area to heat up the pool.

You should note that thermal performance rating is not fully accurate because of varying weather conditions and instrumentation accuracies. If two solar pool heaters have ratings that are within 25 Btu/(ft2day) of each other, they can be considered as about the same.

 

Cost and budget

The next thing to consider is the cost of the solar pool heater and your budget. Ideally, you want to find the best solar pool heater that is within your budget and you can find which is the best one by comparing the systems.

You can estimate and compare the cost of solar pool heaters by looking at their thermal performance rating, the number of solar panels and piping needed, and also the total installation cost of the heater.

There is no need to overspend on a solar pool heater but you also shouldn’t choose a solar pool heater based on the estimated cost alone.

 

Local regulations and permit requirements

When installing solar water heating systems such as a solar pool heater, it’s important to consider the local building codes and regulations. You might need to get certain permits to install the solar panels and this is why it’s important to choose installers who have proper licensing.

Regulations and requirements for the installation of solar panels vary based on location. After installing the solar panels, the local permit municipalities will conduct inspections to ensure that the panels are installed properly and up to the regulations and requirements. We would also strongly suggest you identify the regulations first before deciding on installing a solar pool heater.

 

Choosing Contractors for Solar Pool Heater Installation

After you consider the factors above, you will need to look for contractors to install and maintain your solar pool heater. Here are some considerations to take into account when you select potential contractors:

  • Company experience in installing and maintaining solar pool heaters
  • Years of experience with solar pool heaters
  • Is the company licensed or certified?

 

Conclusion

By considering the factors that we’ve mentioned above, you will be able to pick your solar pool heater with ease. But remember, the factors to consider are only applicable if your home is suitable for a pool heater. That means your home is getting sufficient sunlight so the solar pool heater can function efficiently and effectively.

After picking your solar pool heater, you can consider the criteria that were mentioned when choosing a contractor to install and maintain your solar pool heater.

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