Using the Sun to cut Pool Heating Costs

One of the biggest energy expenses for homes is heating the pool. Using the power of the sun can keep you swimming in the middle of winter.

If you have a pool you know heating it can run your utility bill through the roof. Fortunately there are a number of practical steps that can be taken to cut costs.

Many people who complain about the cost of heating their pools fail to take common sense steps to cut the bill. One of the unrealized costs is the power required to run the filter circulation system. Spend the money on a high powered pump and you will save money. The more you pump the less time it will need to be on.

Next make absolutely sure you use a cover for the pool. Heat escapes through uncovered surfaces. If you’re not using the pool put a cover on it just like you would a hot tub. Try to add a solar bubble cover which will create a bit of water heat by letting the sun in. Regardless using a pool cover will make a major difference in your utility bill. Don’t be lazy! Make sure you keep the cover on the pool.

Even pool covers can only do so much to keep a pool warm. For some people
cutting the costs associated with warming a pool means going to a solar system. Solar heating systems for pools can be a very cost effective way to keep water warm throughout much of the year without driving your utility bill through the roof.

Solar platforms typically will heat a pool up to around 32 degrees but not much more. The systems tend to be less expensive than home heating systems because they are smaller and need fewer components. Your solar vendor can help you figure out what you need for your particular situation but the rule of thumb is you need panels totaling  the size of the pool. This can vary based on whether the pool has a dark bottom and is isolated from the wind.

With utility bills soaring many people are forgoing heating their pools to save money. By taking practical steps and possibly using a solar heating system you’ll have the glory of swimming in July and not worrying about the utility bill.

for more info visit http://www.solar-temp.co.za

Tags: Swimming Pool, solar by admin
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Do I need a swimming pool heater?

Whether or not to get a swimming pool heater is an individual decision. However, in general, it is a good idea. Swimming pools have many uses. They are not just for summer fun. Many people like to use it for as much of the year as possible, for exercise, relaxation, or socialization. If you are one of these people, but you live in a climate where the weather can change at the drop of a hat, or you just plain do not like cool water, a heater is a great thing to have.

Once you decide to get a heater, the next decision is what type of heater to purchase. Deciding which pool heater system is best for you will depend on your specific needs, budget and the design of your pool and house.

Solar heaters will usually bring the temperature of a swimming pool up into the eighty degree range. When you have this type of heater, a spell of cold weather can drop the temperature of the pool. A few warm days will soon restore it, though. Solar pool covers are great for recreational pool users who don’t necessarily need to swim in their pool every single day.

A heat pump heater will keep pools heated at a consistent temperature between 28 and 32 degrees centigrade. This type of heater is an absolute necessity for anyone who is a serious swimmer. If you are set in a daily, year-round swimming routine then this heater is the choice for you.

Athletes and people who do swimming therapy will benefit greatly from this heater, since 28 to 32 degrees centigrade are ideal temperatures for training. A heat pump heater is also a good option if your home is simply not capable of accommodating solar panels for solar heating.

Another type of heater that is available is a gas heater. Gas heaters are more expensive than the other heaters. They are generally great for heating a swimming pool quickly and efficiently when time is an issue. For instance, they are excellent for heating a pool for a party. These are not readily available in South Africa.

Heaters are also wonderful options for pools that are not used often, such as a pool located at someone’s vacation home. Gas heaters are usually extremely large, so they can reach any temperature desired quickly and maintain it constantly, no matter what the weather is like.

If heating a swimming pool is a top priority for you then, in addition to a heater, you may want to invest in a solar pool cover. The solar cover will collect heat from the sun and transfer it to the water. This, in conjunction with your heater, will help to maintain the pool’s temperature.

Considering all of your options should help you to determine if you need a swimming pool heater or not. If you decide that you do then this information should help you to easily determine which heater suits your needs and budget the best.

For more swimming pool information please visit http://www.swimmingpoolbasics.com - a popular pool website that provides tips, advice and swimming pool resources. Don’t forget to check out our page on swimming pool heater.

Tags: Swimming Pool, solar by admin
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