Steve and Kerri bought their home in Kelowna last summer, but shortly after moving in they both agreed swimming in an un-heated pool was not the greatest experience.
A number of heating options were explored. Installing a gas heater would require running a new gas line to the filter room at large expense; this in addition to the cost of the heater. A solar pool heater proved to be the most economical option, with initial costs significantly lower than other considered options, factor in free solar energy to heat the pool and the choice was obvious.
We installed seven 10’ by 4’ Ecosun panels, positioned on a West facing roof, an automatic controller was installed to maximize heating efficiency of the solar panels. The install required a large run of black supply and return UV rated pipe. This piping absorbs solar energy helping to heat water returning to the pool; all piping was installed to naturally drain water back into the pool.
With the new solar water heater the pool should be regularly over 80 °F, and Steve, Kerri and their children will no longer suffer cold ‘Polar Bear’ swims during the summer.
