How does solar pool heating actually work?
If you’re looking for a new pool heating system for your swimming pool, chances are you’ve researched the different types of pool heating. Pool heat pumps and gas heaters are common, but can be particularly expensive to run. This is especially true if you’re planning to use your pool consistently. Wouldn’t it be great if you could harness natural energy to keep your pool warm, saving you hundreds of dollars on operating costs? Thankfully you can, with solar pool heating! Capture the heat generated from the sun and use it to warm your pool all year round. Solar heating systems are becoming increasingly popular amongst pool owners, with new technology emerging that can make them even more effective. They are affordable, environmentally-friendly and highly durable, reducing the need for consistent maintenance and part replacements. It sounds great, but how does a solar pool heating system actually work?
A rundown
To put it simply, a solar pool heater works by pumping your pool water through a series of black tubes that are mounted to either the ground or the roof of your home. These tubes are known as a solar absorber, or a solar collector. As the water circulates through these pipes, the energy from the sun is absorbed which heats the temperature of the water. The warm water is then transferred back into the pool. Solar controllers can be used to set a desired water temperature and the heater will continue to work until it’s reached.
The process
Firstly, the pool owner uses their solar controller to choose their desired water temperature. The controller is able to monitor both the roof and pool sensor. This provides feedback about the temperature of the water. If the water reaches a difference of 7-8 degrees between the two sensors, it will activate the solar pump. The solar pump is responsible for transferring the cold water from your pool into the solar absorber in order for it to be heated. The pump will operate until the set temperature has been reached. This is granted that the weather conditions create enough sun to heat the water. Once the water has been through the solar pump, it’s diverted through a vacuum relief valve and taken to the solar absorber. As the water is pumped through the solar absorber, the heat from the sun warms the water. This water is then circulated back into the vacuum relief valve and sent to the pool. Once the sensors reach a difference of 2 degrees between the water and the set temperature, the solar pump will shut down and the vacuum relief valve will drain the remaining water from the roof.
Types of solar heating
Heliocol HC
Constructed with quality and efficiency in mind, the Heliocol HC solar absorbers are one of the most advanced products available on the market. The latest Heliocol systems are the result of 30 years of engineering, design and research, creating a highly effective absorber that will stand the test of time. Heliocol’s individual tube design prevents it from lifting up over time and protects from rain rot as moisture can escape.
Sunvalue SV
The Sunvalue SV is another solar pool heating system from Heliocol. These systems are designed to provide efficient heating with minimal maintenance. The innovative engineering behind these solar panels ensures that they are capable of heating pools of any size throughout the colder months. They feature over-moulding injection technology, a process that connects riser tubes to the manifold header creating one single polymer panel with no leaks.
SUNX SX
The SUNX SX solar pool heating systems utilise collector tubes within a special glazing material to significantly increase the performance of the solar absorbers. This increased performance creates more heat, requiring less roof space for optimal heating. They are also purpose built for increased winter-time solar gain. This means that they perform extremely well, even in cloudy conditions.
All three options are a great investment, so do some research and find out which solar panels are suited to your needs and budget. If you’d like to get in touch with a heating specialist, you can contact our team by clicking here. We’d love to assist you in choosing a solar heating system that’s right for you.
What’s the initial cost?
The cost to purchase and install a solar pool heating system will depend on the size of your pool. If you own an average sized pool in Sydney, a solar heating system could cost you anywhere from $3000 – $5000 to install. When compared with some other heating options, they are a little more expensive to purchase initially. However, the savings come after with the little to no operating costs. If you’re operating solar pool heating in Sydney, the solar heat could extend your swimming season by up to 6 months. They also require very little maintenance and can last an incredibly long time, saving you money on repairs too.
Conclusion
Unlike other pool heating systems, a pool solar system will require very little running costs. The heating process itself is free, and the only electricity that is required is used for the solar controller and the pump. They are also incredibly durable and many people report that after 20 years their systems are still functioning as they should. With more advanced technology emerging, solar pool heating solutions are becoming even more effective and reliable. In addition to saving you money, a solar pool heating system is also great for the environment with a very low carbon footprint. If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable way to heat your pool and extend your swimming season, a solar pool heating system could be for you.
Contact us
If you’re searching for solar pool heating on the Northern beaches or surrounding suburbs, give Sydney Solar Solutions a call on 0432 364 334. We regularly install swimming pool solar heating in Sydney and the surrounding suburbs. With nearly 20 years’ experience in pool heating systems, we have the expertise and the advice you need to start your pool heating journey. You can also visit our contact page here for any enquiries.