Solar pool heating, explained

How it works

Your pool pump already moves water through a filter. A solar pool heater adds a loop: a valve sends some of that water up to collectors on your roof, where black tubes absorb the sun's heat, and the warmed water flows back to the pool. An optional controller only sends water up when the roof is warmer than the pool.

How big should the system be?

Collector area is measured against your pool's surface area. As a rule of thumb on the Space Coast:

• About 50% of pool surface area takes the chill off in spring and fall.
• About 75 to 80% keeps most pools comfortable for most of the year. This is what most owners choose.
• About 100%, with a pool cover, gets close to year-round swimming.

Roof direction, shade and how warm you like the water all shift these numbers, which is why we size each system individually.

What does it cost to run?

Very little. The sun provides the heat and your existing pump moves the water. Compared with gas heaters or heat pumps, there's no fuel and little extra electricity.

Why a pool cover matters

Most of a pool's heat escapes from the surface at night. A solar cover or blanket holds that heat in, reduces evaporation and keeps debris out. Paired with solar heating, it can add weeks of comfortable swimming.

What about the roof?

Collectors are light, but every mount still goes through your roof. Ask your installer how penetrations are sealed and what guarantee covers them. Ours carry a lifetime leak-free guarantee for as long as you own the home.