Solar PV and DC Element

[Van G]

Has anyone looked at putting a DC element inline and powering it directly by PV panels.

This would be a supplemental heat source to gas and blanket.

According to online calc 2K watts will raise my pool by 1 degree in 17 H which is about 3 days of sun.

6 panels at 420W
The system would be cheap and simple in implementation but is that enough supplemental heat to make any difference vs. Helicol or Vac Tube panels?

 

[Donldson]

You would never get as much heat out of using PV collectors and electrical heating as you would the same size solar heating collectors.

I'm also dubious of your definition of "cheap".

 

[Van G]

Cheap in pool terms is under 2K. 6 PV panels, wire, and 2500W element.

Thinking out loud, the simplicity of panels directly supplying DC to element that is inline. No extra pumps, controllers, and a long life low maintenance solution. But if it doesn’t do the job….

This solution takes up 14x10 on my shop roof.