Solar heat as an option for the swimming pool…is it really worth considering? To answer the question simply, yes! Realizing that every heating option has its pros and cons, lets focus on solar heating and you will be more knowledgeable to determine if it is an option for you to consider.
Solar pool heating is the most cost-effective use of solar energy in many climates. And, you can significantly reduce swimming pool heating costs by installing a solar pool heater, in comparison to the other options available. They are very competitive with gas and electric heat pumps and have a very low annual operating cost.
You must have a good climate and direct access to sunlight for solar heat to perform well. Uh, duh, Florida…hello?
The largest con for solar heating is not being able to control the desired temperature as quickly and easily as a traditional heat pump would.
Simply, solar pool collectors are installed on your roof and they “collect” solar heat and send it through the system to the water just as the other options would. Each collector’s thermal performance rating will determine its efficiency. In fact, if you are an Algebra nut, you can figure out how well the performance would rate on your own with a formula such as:
Megajoules (MJ) per square meter per day: MJ/(M2day) or Btu per day, which is simply the rating in Btu/(ft2day) multiplied by the area in ft2. Also used is MJ per day, which is the rating in MJ/(M2day) multiplied by the area in M2.
If perhaps Algebra isn’t your thing, Horizon Pool and Patio have experts on staff to decipher this mind-boggling question for you and help you conclude if solar pool heating is the clear choice for you.
Horizon Pool and Patio are considered to be the solar heating experts. They are family owned and operated. Since 1985, they have been serving Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Acreage, Loxahatchee and many of the other communities in Palm Beach County.
Horizon Pool and Patio provide both residential and commercial pool and spa service, equipment repairs, retail supplies and equipment, along with full pool renovations and remodeling. For more information on Horizon Pool & Patio, visit them at www.horizonpool.com or call (561) 790-0665. You can always visit their Wellington store located in the Wellington Plaza next to Schaefer’s Drugs at 12785A W. Forest Hill Boulevard.
