Solar Pool Heaters Explained

So how do they actually work?

A solar pool heater is a pool heater that uses the sun’s energy to run. Most pools are heated by either a gas or an electric heater which can be very expensive. To understand how a solar pool heater works, first you must understand solar power; then you must understand how it applies to the solar pool heater. Finally, you have to see the benefit of installing this type of system in your home. A solar pool cover is an easy way to save money, but don’t just believe me, read the facts below.

Solar power is the process of converting sunlight into electricity. There are two ways this energy is converted, either directly using photovoltaics (PV), or indirectly using concentrated solar power (CSP). In layman’s terms, PV uses huge solar panels and transmits the energy they get from the sun to semiconductors, which are attached to the electric system of a home or business. Concentrated solar power uses lenses or mirrors to concentrate the sun’s rays onto one beam of energy, creating a current of electricity.

A solar pool heater uses photovoltaics to run. The solar panels are attached to the collectors of the pool water. The solar panels heat the collectors, the water runs from the filter to the collector, where it is heated, and – voila! You have heated water for a much cheaper cost than using a gas or electric heater. Not only that, but a solar pool heater can last for 10-20 years if well-maintained, and they can even outlast a gas or electric heater.

Solar power is a hugely untapped resource supplying less than 0.02% of the world’s energy last year. Using a solar pool heater is often considered the most cost-effective use of solar power, meaning that you get the most bang-for-your-buck with the solar pool heater. While a gas heater can run you upwards of $1700 for just the heater, let alone the cost of the monthly bill, a solar heater can be found for as low as $150! I am not sure if those prices will last long, since more and more companies are springing up to take advantage of this largely untapped natural resource, and you know how it goes – if people can find a way to charge for something that should be free – they will!

You can even make your own solar pool heater which I will discuss in another article. Making your own solar pool heater is an even more cost-effective way to utilize the sun’s power.