Solar Pool Heat

We just signed with the pool company today and they will begin the work to install an inground pool in our yard. I’ve asked that they put in the necessary plumbing so that we can add the solar system later (paying approx $400 for 3 pipes?). How difficult is it to do this? Is this something relatively simple/straightforward? I should add that we have a computer control panel, so according to our pool man, we should be able to hook up to it and have it controlled remotely. So my question is, once it’s stubbed for solar, what are the next steps and best cost approach? Any guidance is greatly appreciated!

I installed my own solar system as soon as they finished our pool. I didn’t have them plumb anything for it. There is only one valve you’ll need and one backflow preventer and they both come with the solar system. Then you just cut into the return line and add the valve which will direct the water to your panels or bypass them. Then add a "Tee" for the water to come back from the panels. Nothing to it. And by the way, instead of hooking our solar system up to the control panel, we chose to put in an automatic thermostat control valve.

Do solar covers really work? We have an in ground pool and after weekend storms the water has gotten very cold. We have a solar cover, but never used it. Do these really work? And, if so, how many degrees can it raise the water tempature?

We have a huge pool and have always used a solar cover. I think they work. We put it on after or pool use and take it off when the sun is out. after storms, we’ve swam and never once did the kids complain about it being too cold. the heat is staying in and when not in use, the sun is beating down on the cover to keep the water warm. it doesn’t raise it too high, maybe 2-5 degrees more but remember, it’s keeping the heat is so when you use it again, the water is warm, not cold like most pools after a storm or cooler weather. you have to try it. it’s the only way you’ll learn the difference between a solar cover and not covering it at all.

Can you put solar panels on the bottom of a swimming pool or koi pond? That way you don’t have to use more space of your yard? Or would that be too dangerous or hot?

No. The huge loss of energy in the filtered and refracted sunlight would make the solar panels virtually worthless.

If black absorbs heat from the light of the sun… wouldn’t it heat the water a little bit to paint the outside of the above ground pool black? Interested if anyone has tried this.

It is possible that the pool temperature may raise a few degree’s by doing this. You will also violate your pool warranty. A second option besides a solar cover, is a solar panel, which sets apart from your pool and you never have to move it to go for a swim. It hooks inline with your filter system and can ad 10-15 degrees of heat