Pool solar panels are the most economical way to heat your swimming pool, whether it's in-the-ground or above ground. The use of pool solar panels first became popular in 1972, and the United States Department of Energy reports that in 1997, approximately 93% of all solar panels sold in this country were used to heat swimming pool water.



It is a misnomer to think that pool solar panels are effective only in warm, sunny climates. In fact, they are commonly used in all of the continental United States, as well as in Hawaii. Even on cloudy, hazy days, pool solar panels have proven to do their job.

Pool Solar Panels Virtually Sell Themselves

There are several major reasons that pool owners choose to heat using solar panels. These include:

* Low cost and easy installation -- can be installed in less than one day for costs ranging from $300.00 (do-it-yourself) to over $3,000.00 (plus professional installation).

* Avoid high gas or electricity cost(s) -- panels can increase pool temperature from six to twenty degrees each day, depending on the pool to surface ratio. Obviously, the greater the solar panel surface the warmer the pool water. Note: most panels are installed either on the roof on along a wall adjacent to the pool.

* Extend swimming season -- even in northern climates, a pool heated by a solar panel can be comfortable and used as early as April and into October

* Easy to use - pool owners can basically set the pool solar control panel to whatever temperature they choose and the system does the rest.

* No regular maintenance necessary -- once installed, pool solar panels need virtually no attention. Even if the pool is shut down, the panels will automatically drain themselves, if properly installed.