Solar panel heating

[dariushd]

I am considering solar panels for the pool, and have some newbie questions:

Are all panels about the same, or is it worth the premium for Heliocol panels? I got an install quote of about $6k for my 25k, 16x32 pool, while pool stores tell me $2k-ish should do it (obviously without Heliocol panels).
Are panels difficult to install for a DIY job?
How long do they last, and are they fairly maintenance free?

Thanks!

 

[jblizzle]

There are certainly different qualities. And some think theirs are worth a lot. Some companies cater more to DIY than others. I bought my Heliocol panels used on Craigslist and installed myself. Difficult depends on your roof type and level of experience.

They are mostly maintenance free. Just drain them for winter to avoid damage. I have not had a leak for the 3 years they have had them installed.

Other members have done DIY with new panels they ordered online. Hopefully they will chime in.

 

[pooldv]

I bought my panels from Solar Direct and installed them about 5 years ago. I think they have a 10 year warranty. No issues at all so far. It isn't a bad DIY. But, I'm pretty handy and I also built the building they are installed on. There are pics of my solar in my pool thread, link in sig.

You want between 50% and 100% of your pool surface. I only have 240sf for a 700sf pool and more would be better. But, I added a small heat pump last year and it is nice to have both. We like the water between 86 and 89 and we've been swimming since March 13th this year.