Swimming Pool Heating
Solar heating systems can be sized for any type or size of pool.
The solar thermal system can work as the only heat source or in conjunction with a boiler, electric heater or heat pump etc.
A system can provide up to 100% of the energy required for swimming during the summer, or up to 60% of the energy required to heat a pool all year.
A typical solar pool system will comprise the following components:
• Collectors (Panels)
Collectors can be mounted on a southerly-facing pitched roof or wall, a flat roof or on the ground. They can be installed on an east or west-facing but the total collector area will need to be increased to compensate for the lower energy levels. Shading, aesthetics, roof condition and accessibility will all be considered when selecting a position for the solar collectors.
The number of collectors required can be specified once the pool energy demand has been estimated and the collector location identified. As the amount of solar energy available to the collectors is fixed; the greater the collector area the more energy will be absorbed.
• Pipe Work
Copper or flexible stainless steel pipe work will be used to connect the collectors to a heat exchanger and pump station. The pipe work will be sized to maximise the performance of the system. Insulation, and were appropriate mechanical protection, will be applied to all pipes. Pipe work can be run underground if required.
• Controls
A solar control system, incorporating a differential controller, pump station and expansion vessel, will usually be installed close to the pool circulation system.
The solar differential controller monitors system temperatures to automatically control the delivery of energy to the pool. A display screen indicates how the system is performing. The control settings will be optimised at the time of installation.
The solar pump station incorporates a circulation pump, as well as the flow controls, gauges and valves required for the safe and effective operation of the system.
A suitably sized expansion allows for the expansion and contraction of solar fluid within the system. The solar fluid contains an anti-freeze and corrosion inhibitor.
• Heat Exchanger
The solar heat exchanger allows the solar energy to be transferred from the solar system to the pool water. The solar heat exchanger will be sized to matched the power output of the solar collectors and will typically be installed in-line and upstream of the secondary heat source, close to the pool circulation system. In larger systems a buffer vessel may also be used.
System Diagrams
Example system diagrams can be downloaded and viewed by clicking here
Further Information
Call or email us now if you have any questions or would like to discuss a particular project.