You are likely considering having a solar heater for your pool or comparing solar pool heaters. We understand that the cost is one of the biggest factors when it comes to solar pool heating.
Continue reading to have an idea of how much you need to spend on a solar pool heating system and its advantages and disadvantages so that you can weigh if the cost is indeed worth it.
How Much Do You Need to Spend on Solar for Your Pool?
Pools are a great way to spend time with your family. However, you don’t have to wait for summer to be able to use it. Adding a solar pool heater can help you maintain warm temperatures during winter without going overboard with your spending.
But how much is too much? In this article, we’ll take a look at the costs of solar heaters as well as their benefits and drawbacks.
Total Cost of a Solar Pool Heating System
Some people assume that a solar pool heating system is very affordable since it collects heat from the sun. Even though you save from energy costs by up to 50%, more factors can add up to the total cost of a solar pool heating system in your home.
The first thing to consider is the installation cost. The average price of installing it is around $5,000. Moreover, the price depends on the size of your pool, the types of panel you prefer, and the amount of labor needed for the installation.
Another factor you need to consider is the electricity cost since you need a pump. Electricity is needed to make your water pump and your solar pool heating system work. You might need to spend around $50 to $200 every month on your electricity to operate the pump of your solar system.
Although you have these costs, it can be worth it to have a solar pool heating system. That is because solar panels can last for 2 decades on average.
What Makes the Cost of Solar Worth it
Low Maintenance
Because it does not have many parts, you do not need to do a lot to maintain your solar pool heating system. If there are components that need to be replaced usually are either the pump or the panels.
More Efficient
A solar heating system is a great way to heat your pool if there is ample sunlight and warmth. It’s efficient and can save up on your electricity bills.
Easy Controls
The automatic diverter valves are a plus to the manual diverter valve used to manage water flow. Automatic diverter valves can identify temperature. It can also divert water automatically towards or away from your panels through their sensors.
Provides Cool Water in the Evening
Using your solar at night can be advantageous to cool your pool if it is too hot during the day. The water is cooled down a bit before it returns to the pool when it goes through the panels at night.
The Drawbacks of Solar
Takes Time to Heat Up
A solar pool heating system is not ideal if you want to heat your pool fast. Even though it is sunny throughout the day, the system can only warm up the water several degrees every day. Here is what we mean:
Uses Too Much Space
Aside from much sunlight, a solar pool heating system requires a lot of space. The number of solar panels you need is the same as half of your pool’s size to make your solar system work.
Conclusion
Finally, you have a better idea of how much you need to spend on a solar pool heating system. The advantages and disadvantages listed can help you decide if it is for you. Keeping the cost factors in mind can also help.
Even though there are limitations, a solar pool heating system can give you the water temperature you want for your pool. This is recommended if you want to swim regardless of the season.