I am looking to get a solar system to heat my pool. I would love any advice and experience any of you have about what is the best brand and installation tips.
Thanks.
Thanks.
Best Solar for Pool
- Thread starter ccp
- Start date
I have Aquasol panels, made by Solar Depot. They've done well.
Give us some details about your pool, climate and how much room you have for panels and what direction the roof faces.
Give us some details about your pool, climate and how much room you have for panels and what direction the roof faces.
- Nov 12, 2009
- 324
- Pool Size
- 15000
- Surface
- Plaster
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- Pentair Intellichlor IC-40
JohnT said:
I would add it would be helpful to also know if they will be roof mounted (then roof type - shingle, tile, metal) or could they be on a ground rack (roof direction is then less important, but takes up yard space, etc.).
Would also help to know details about pump and plumbing size, distance, etc. as being part of the pool details JohnT asked for - like square feet of water surface (asked for clarification - if needed).
There are manuals from the panel OEMs that can be found through Google (or whatever) that should be read, and the Florida Solar Energy Research Center has several documents worth a read as well (if you didn't already know).
I have 250 sq ft of self-installed Heliocol panels, only one year in service, but so far quite a good experience. They (heliocol) have some distinct advantages if you are in a high wind area, but otherwise I think some FAFCO products tend to have slightly higher efficiency ratings. BTW, independently tested and verified ratings for many brands can be found at the solar site above.
They will be roof mounted. I have plenty of roof space and it is south facing. The pool is a free form 23x43 pool with about 35,000 gallons. Southern California, specifically in Corona, CA. It can get pretty windy were I live.
I have 2" plumbing that I have pre plummed to the area. My pump is a VS3050.
I have 2" plumbing that I have pre plummed to the area. My pump is a VS3050.
FWIW for diy work, I have been using the ebay ones, and have had really good luck with them, it's a decent way to save some serious money. For roof mounting, make sure you do all the math for pump power and the drain systems, etc.
- Oct 18, 2009
- 3,635
- Pool Size
- 6000
- Surface
- Plaster
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- Hayward Aqua Rite (T-15)
I have Aquatherm Ecosun Solar panels and they seem to do great. We have had then about 10 mths and can't believe that we would be able to live without them. I did some research and quotes on the 3 most popular ones, Fabsfo, Helicoil, and Aquatherm, however the installer gave me a lifetime transferable guarantee on the solar panels and protection from roof leaks. I could not pass up on this. Look at the sig bar to see our solar install.
- Nov 12, 2009
- 324
- Pool Size
- 15000
- Surface
- Plaster
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- Pentair Intellichlor IC-40
I mentioned the wind issue since the Florida wind load building code for coastal installations in my area requires hurricane-rated installs (130mph). However, don't think So Cal bldg codes require hurricane force wind considerations.
Given a major brand, I would let a warranty/cost benefit analysis drive the decision.
Given a major brand, I would let a warranty/cost benefit analysis drive the decision.
I just had aquatherm ecosun panels installed too. I'm not sure if you can get those directly or if they only sell through authorized installers?
I second the recommendation on Aquasol. I installed 6 - 4' x 12' panels on my roof last summer and I'm very happy with them. You can get them online from Best Buy Pool supply at a reasonable price.
