What is Pool Heating?

Solar energy is the most perfect and economical way to heat your pool. Compared to conventional pool heaters using propane, solar pool heating systems can pay for themselves in four years or less. And if you currently don't heat your pool, a solar heating system can provide an inexpensive way to extend your pool season, starting earlier in the spring and extending later into the fall.

The use of solar energy for pool heating and the equipment need of pool owners make a perfect match. The storage unit for the solar heated water already exists - the swimming pool, and you need a pump to push water through the solar collectors.

The type of  solar system may vary, however, the basic principle remains the same. Pool water is circulated through a series of tubes (collectors), usually mounted on the roof, where heat is absorbed, and the heated water returned to the pool.

The collectors can be of  EPDM Rubber or PVC/TPR material and are usually supplied in multiple tube strips, however we prefer to use polypropylene with special ultraviolet inhibitor additives. Our system is guaranteed not to discolor your pool due to deterioration of the solar panel material.

An automatic controller allows you to set your desired pool temperature. When that temperature is reached, the system will automatically turn off to maintain the desired temperature. In some cases the swimming pool can naturally reach uncomfortable temperatures during peak summer months and the system can dissipate excess heat in the pool water by circulating the water through the collectors at night.

Benefits

Saves on pool heating costs

Energy costs continue to rise. In the last two years alone, the price of natural gas has more than doubled. On the other hand, the sun's energy is free, and more and more pool owners are taking advantage of this opportunity to save money and avoid future price increases.  A solar pool system, which can last for 20 years, can pay for itself in as little as 3 years while providing free heat from the sun to warm your pool. 

Many pool owners switch to solar because it meets all of their heating needs. But, even if you continue to use a gas or electric heater as a backup, solar heating is a smart investment that will save you money, year after year.

Extends your swimming season

A properly sized solar heating system will get you swimming earlier in the spring and later into the fall. Whether or not you have an existing heater, you can keep your pool warmer and open longer with free energy from the sun. A solar heater used in combination with a solar pool cover can add one to two months to the beginning of the swimming season and one to two months to the end of the swimming season.

Equipment is durable

Solar equipment often lasts longer than gas or electric heaters. With proper yearly maintenance, you can expect fuel heaters to last 7 to 10 years. Most gas heaters come with a two-year warranty, and well-made heat pumps carry a two-year warranty with five years on the compressors. Solar panels have a 12-year warranty for parts and labor and generally last 15 to 20 years or longer.

Requires less maintenance

Unlike gas and electric heaters, which should be serviced by a technician every year, a solar heater requires very little servicing. Again, that means less cost and less hassle for the pool owner.

Solar energy is good for the environment

These days we hear a lot about the damaging effect that burning fossil fuels is having on the environment. Burning fuels releases nitrogen oxides that cause pollution in urban areas which is worse on warm and sunny days. This affects people with respiratory problems such as asthma. Using solar energy instead of burning fossil fuels can help reduce this.

NC Renewable Energy Tax Credits

North Carolina offers a tax credit equal to 35% or maximum $1400 for solar pool heating systems.  There is no Federal tax credit because solar swimming pool heating is already very cost-effective.