Solar Pool Heaters

Heating Your Pool With Solar Energy

A quick dip in the pool feels great on a hot summer day, but not so much when the weather cools down. That’s why many homeowners are turning to solar pool heaters to extend their swim season and keep their water at a more comfortable temperature year-round. Solar pool heating systems use the sun’s energy to warm your pool water, helping you cut back on energy costs. They have low operating expenses and can be more affordable over time than gas heaters or electric heat pumps. With the right setup, you can enjoy a warmer pool without the high utility bills.

How Do Solar Pool Heaters Work?

Solar pool heaters are fairly simple systems that work with your existing pool equipment. They use a few basic components to warm your water using energy from the sun:

• Pool Filter: Already part of most pool systems, the filter removes debris before water is heated.
• Solar Collector: This is where the water gets warmed. After passing through the filter, pool water flows into the collector, where it’s heated by the sun.
• Pump: The pump moves water through the system, from the pool to the filter, through the collector, and back again.
• Control Valve: This valve directs the flow of water. It can be manual or automatic. It lets you turn the solar heating system on or off depending on your needs.

Most pools already have filters, pumps, and plumbing in place. A solar pool heater simply adds one more step to that loop. Instead of water going straight back to the pool after being filtered, it’s sent through the solar collector first. There, the sun heats it before it returns to the pool.

As this cycle repeats, your pool water gradually warms up. The actual heating effect depends on factors like the size of your solar system, the size of your pool, and how much sun your system gets each day.

How Much Do Solar Pool Heaters Cost?

One significant benefit to using a solar water heater for pools is that they are similar in cost to other types of pool heaters, such as gas heaters and heat pumps. But they offer the added benefit of saving money over time when it comes to utility costs related to heating the swimming pool.

Upfront Costs

The first cost to consider for a solar pool heater is the upfront installation. On average, homeowners spend between $2,500 and $7,500, with most falling in the $4,500 to $5,000 range. The final price depends on the size of your pool, the solar system’s capacity, and the type of panels used. Most homeowners recoup their investment within 1 to 7 years, thanks to low operating costs.

You’ll typically choose between glazed solar panels and propylene mats. Glazed panels cost more upfront but lose less energy, helping your pool warm up faster. Propylene mats are more affordable and work well in warmer climates.

While gas pool heaters may have a slightly lower installation cost, usually between $1,500 and $6,000, they’re far less energy-efficient and come with much higher monthly fuel costs. Heat pumps, another popular option, cost around $2,000 to $6,500 and fall somewhere in the middle on monthly expenses.

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For homeowners looking to save money over time, solar pool heaters often offer the best return on investment.

Monthly Utility Costs: Solar vs. Other Pool Heaters

When it comes to ongoing utility costs, solar pool heaters are by far the most affordable option. They rely on the sun’s energy. Aside from a small bump in electricity use for your pool’s pump, you won’t see much added to your utility bill.

• Solar pool heaters cost around $10 to $25 per month to operate, mostly for pump electricity.
• Gas heaters can run $150 to $450 per month, depending on fuel prices and usage.
• Heat pumps typically cost $50 to $150 per month, offering better efficiency than gas but still requiring electricity to run.

Keep in mind that all pool heating systems require a pump, which uses electricity. With solar, that’s the only major cost, making it the most energy-efficient and budget-friendly option over time.

Solar Pool Heater Collector Options

Solar pool heater systems typically use two types of collectors, each offering different cost and performance benefits.

1. Bulk (Unglazed) Collectors: These simple, flat-panel systems hold pool water and warm it directly in the sun. While not the most efficient option, they’re easy to install and very affordable. Most bulk pool collectors cost around $500.
2. Evacuated Tube Collectors: These high-efficiency units use vacuum-sealed tubes to trap more heat, making them a great choice for cooler or cloudier climates. However, this efficiency comes at a premium. Expect to pay between $1,000 and $5,000 for evacuated tube solar pool collectors.

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Which One Should You Choose?

• Budget-conscious? Go with a bulk collector. It’s simple and low-cost.
• Need faster heating or use water even when it’s cloudy? An evacuated tube system delivers better performance, for a higher upfront price.

No matter which option you choose, ensure your system is properly sized. This guarantees you’ll get enough heat to suit your pool and climate. A solar heating professional can help you determine the right fit and handle installation.

Installing a Solar Water Heater for Your Pool

Installing a solar pool heater is a job best left to professionals. Here’s what you can typically expect during the process:

1. Mount the Solar Collectors: A solar installer mounts the collectors on a nearby rooftop with good sun exposure. If no suitable roof is available, they may build a structure or ground-mount the collectors in an open area.
2. Connect to Existing Pool Equipment: Pipes are added to “T-off” from your current filtration loop, directing water through the solar collectors before it returns to the pool.
3. Install Control Valves: Control valves are added so you can adjust the water flow and turn the solar heater on or off as needed.
4. Add a Vent System: A vent is installed at the highest point of the system to drain water from the collectors when the pump isn’t running, preventing damage.
5. Professional Final Setup: Due to the complexity of plumbing and system alignment, most homeowners hire a professional to complete the installation safely and efficiently.

In-Ground vs. Above-Ground Solar Pool Heaters

You can use a solar pool heater for either an in-ground or above-ground pool, but in-ground pools are more commonly paired with solar heating systems. The main difference comes down to the size and power of the heater required.

Above-ground pools tend to lose heat more quickly, so they often need a more powerful heating system to keep the water warm. That can make the upfront cost of a solar heater slightly higher for above-ground pools. Still, solar can be a smart investment for both types, especially for homeowners looking to reduce energy use and heating costs.

No matter your pool type, solar water heaters offer an energy-efficient, low-maintenance way to extend your swim season. If you’re exploring solar solutions for your home, it’s also worth learning about solar panel options, installation costs, and other solar heating systems.

Ready to get started? Use Modernize’s Contractor Checklist to help you find a qualified solar installer who can guide you through the process.

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