Nothing says summertime or vacation like a nice, refreshing dip in the pool. The only problem with outdoor swimming is when the pool temperature becomes too cool to stay in the water. When water is below a certain temperature, the body reacts negatively to the sudden change. Body heat is lost, blood vessels constrict and cardiovascular and breathing problems can arise causing serious health issues. Fortunately, heating sources are available to ensure a more comfortable and relaxing swim.
What types of pool heating systems are available?
Although gas systems have been used frequently, today’s needs require an alternative to fossil fuel use for our eco-friendly society. High gas prices dictated a more cost-efficient method be designed to provide warmth for consumers. The answer developed is solar power. A solar pool blanket is a covering for pools used to capture the rays of the sun in the bubbles of the product to elevate the temperature of the water. Solar pool heaters operate by removing cold water from the pool. Simply set the thermostat for the desired temperature. The installed sensors will note the difference and pump cold water from the pool, push it through the solar collecting tubes, and warm it as it passes through before then being pumped back into the pool. Customers have the option of using a blanket swimming pool cover or heater system independently or in combination to produce the maximum heat.
What are the benefits for the customer?
- ·Swimming season is extended. Pools usually open late May around Memorial Day and close at the beginning of September around Labor Day. With one of these systems, open swim may start earlier and stay open longer because the water is not chilly. Hotels and resorts can attract tourists for longer periods of time after their busy season ends by advertising their heated pools.
- ·Evening swim is encouraged. Many people swim during the day because the water cools off mainly at night. Having a heat system in place gives people the option to swim at the end or beginning of their day without having to share a crowded pool. For those that are sensitive to the sun or do not wish to swim during the high period of the day, this option is a huge selling point. Schools and recreation centers that offer lessons or training for competitions will be able to offer schedules that work with more families and not have to worry about finishing a session early before the cold bothers the swimmers.
- ·Heat lost and gain is mainly done on the surface of the pool. When gas heat is used, water vapors leave the surface and cannot be recaptured. Vapors mean the consumer is losing money as the gas bill continues to accumulate. Gas prices fluctuate and tend to be at their peak during the summer months. Unfortunately, summer months are when most people want to swim which means a higher cost to the person or company making the payments. Plus, fossil fuels are limited, so gas will not always be available. The sun provides a free source of heat in virtually unlimited supply which means an enormous decrease in bills.
Exhaust from a gas pool heater can be potentially hazardous, even deadly, to people because of the carbon monoxide emitted. Solar heating eliminates this danger completely.
- ·It is environmentally friendly. For anyone wanting to give back to protect the environment, this is a good way to recycle, reduce or reuse what is already available sunlight.
What is the cost to the purchaser?
Solar winter pool covers normally range anywhere from $75 – $150. Considering a blanket or covering can raise the temperature of the pool an additional 14 degrees, this cost is minimal. A covering also reduces evaporation, cuts down on debris and keeps the heat in which will cut cost in the area of maintenance. This is, by far, the most cost-effective method to safely heat a pool. They are available in a variety of colors and shapes. For additional cost, covers can be purchased with a built in UV protector.
A solar heating system typically ranges from $200 – $300. Solar pool heaters usually raise the temperature 10 degrees or more within a few days. For maximum heat absorption and long-term monetary value, a heater and cover should be used together. Due to the variety of pools available (above-ground, in-ground, circular, different depths, etc.) a professional should be consulted to determine the appropriate amount of sunlight that will need to be captured to produce the desired results.
What kind of maintenance is needed for upkeep?
Minimal maintenance is needed to care for a solar heated pool. Generally, one of these heaters will last 10 or more years. Warranties are usually offered for a time span of up to 10 years. Instructions on care will be included in the package and explained at time of purchase or installation.