Maximizing Your System
There are a few things you can do to obtain the maximum heating
for your pool. This assumes that the system is working correctly.
(See: Troubleshooting)
These are listed in descending order of effectiveness.
- Cover the pool. All solar systems are fighting
against nighttime heat loss. A pool cover will minimize this
and provide a higher starting point for the next day. Of course,
covers are unsightly, a hassle to pull on and off, and need
replacing after 2 or 3 years, but they are quite effective.
Ideally you should only need one for early and late season use.
But some pools, due to shading, wind or other factors may need
a cover at other times.
- Increase the number of hours the system runs.
Generally speaking you should see good results running the pump
about 6 hours per day. However, if you have good sun on the
panels before or after the system is currently set, you might
try to increase the run time to 8 or even 10 hours. This will
cost a little for the extra electricity, but still much cheaper
than running a gas heater.
- Make sure you are getting at least 50 percent of
your suction supply from the bottom of the pool. Usually
this is done by adjusting a valve at the equipment pad or adjusting
the diverter valve under the skimmer basket. The water at the
bottom of the pool can be somewhat cooler than the surface;
cool water will absorb more heat. Many pools are set to run
skimmer suction only, and in effect are reheating warm water.
The results of this may be only slight, but in pools with flow
issues there may be a greater benefit.
- If the return lines into the pool have adjustable “eyeballs”,
direct the flow downward. This will again help
to even out the heating.
- In cool weather minimize the use of water features.
Large spillways, waterfalls, streambeds, negative edge overflows,
fountains, etc. can cool water, especially in windy conditions.
