I have (2) 20ft x 2ft solar panels hooked up to 6000 gal fiberglass pool. I use these in the spring and fall to extend the season. My question is: Does anyone know if solar panels will/can get a pool hotter than the normal daily ambient temperature?
Although technically possible, with 80 sq ft of panels, increasingly short sun exposure combined with cooler tempertures I would think it is unlikely that the pool temperature is going to climb into the 80s. Depends on other variables, too, of course, such as at what time of day and how long the pump runs, angle of panels relative to the sun and overnight lows, the latter two factors contributing to the average ambient temperature you mentioned. Recommend checking the forecast for your area; if avg. day/night temperatures will climb steeply during this next week, wait a few days; else, SWIM NOW! :-D
Avg temps in Virginia Beach right now are mid to upper 70's and I really like to get the pool temp up to about 80 to get in. I have a cover on it. Is it time to give up for this year?