Was this like DIY coiling irrigation / pex? or was it a DIY installation of a real solar heater? There really isn't a comparison.
No offense intended, but if you are saying you get full sun in Charlotte and your pool does not go over 80 then I have to discount your opinion immediately. I have a heavily tree'd lot, but do get several hours of sun on my pool. It consistently reaches over 80 degrees. This morning it was 79. By 5pm it was 82, and I put the solar cover away 2 weeks ago. I also in the past have been at friend's / family's community pools where there are no trees and full sun, and by July, the water is warmer than pee. Good for a hot tub maybe but not for a refreshing swim in my opinion.
The point is, I am looking for a long-term solution to extending the season without the extra expense (other than an up front cost) of gas or electric heating. I can't understand if there is a reason that Charlotte area has not adopted this.... Maybe I have a business opportunity here..... hmmm.
I don't want to take down more trees (other than the Dang sweet gums and pines). But I would like to extend the season without having to think before I turn the heat on. The pump has to run for the SWG - why can't it be heating at the same time?