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Modified:    07/19/03

Solar Pool Heaters - In Ground Pools

COST OF OPERATION
Solar is an alternative energy source, and has no cost of operation. The pool pump must run for the solar heater to function, and may increase your electric bill by $30 to $75 per year depending on your normal filtering time. (return to questions)

TYPES OF SOLAR POOL HEATERS
There are two basic types of solar pool heaters: panels and mat. Both types have Carbon Black in them to absorb solar energy and Inhibitors which act like a sunscreen to prevent deterioration. Panels are made of polypropylene plastic, come in rigid sizes (4ftx8ft, 4ftx10ft, 4ftx12ft plus custom lengths), and are approximately 5 to 10% more efficient than Mat Systems. The major advantage to Mat Systems is that they can be tailored to fit odd size roofs. For more details, request information on Mat Systems at sales@solardirect.com. (return to questions)

• Elliptical Flow Tubes for High Flow, Low Pressure and Strength
• Heavy Duty Polypropylene Plastic Extrusion

Vortex Solar Panel

Cross Section

View or print the following in the Adobe Acrobat.pdf format:
Vortex Solar Pool Heater Brochure, Vortex Warranty, Vortex Spec Sheet

WHAT SIZE DO I NEED?
Generally you will need a system equal to 50 to 100% of the pool surface. Solar panels are available in 4x8, 4x10, 4x12 and custom sizes. They are generally placed in a row on one or several roofs.  A typical 7 4x12 panel system would require a space of 12.5 ft by 30.75 ft.  To determine the size required for your pool, use the SIMPLIFIED SIZING GUIDE FOR SOLAR POOL HEATERS. Each pool & home is unique.  The size of the heater is based on several factors, including:  the size & shape of the pool; pool shading (i.e. trees, screen enclosure); geographic location; swimming season and pool temperature desired; windy conditions; and direction of the roof (south, east, west or flat). The size of the heater will determine the temperature, swimming season, and length of time to heat the pool. It is very important to properly size the heater for good performance.

Keep in mind that a Thermal Pool Cover is recommended for all heating systems. Heating a pool without a cover is like heating a house without a roof...the heat just goes right out the top. Without a pool cover, the cost of operating a Heat Pump or Gas Heater is doubled, and a Solar Heater's effectiveness is dramatically decreased.  For convenience a roller may be added to ease placement and removal of the cover.  If a pool cover is not be used, the size of the heater must be increased by 75% - 100%. Pool covers range in cost from $60 to $130 for residential pools; rollers start at $185. (return to questions)

WHAT DO SYSTEMS LOOK LIKE?
System design varies slightly from house to house. They can be installed on most roof types or on ground mounted racks. Click here to view photographs of systems installed by other homeowners. Below is a typical system diagram.  For more details refer to the Vortex Install Manual. (return to questions)

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