The mechanics of a solar swimming pool heating
The outdoor pool heating is the most economical application of solar energy because:
- over time it brings the maximum usage of the sun’s radiation
- only nominal temperatures (mostly under 30°C) are required by which more economical solar absorbers can be used
- no thermal reservoir is needed as the pool itself acts as a huge reservoir.
The basic functionality principle behind a solar unit as a pool heater is relatively simple. AST Solar Mats are installed on a roof top and absorb the sun’s radiation.
The pool water is taken via branch current from the clean water conduit of the filter unit (filtered water) and transferred by a circulation pump through the absorber.
The amount of branch current (m3/h) is dependent upon the size of the absorber area. In the absorber the flowing pool water then absorbs the sun’s radiation as thermal energy and warms itself – when correctly scaled – from 6°- 8°, before it is then re-circulated back into the pool.
The facility is operated by means of an electric regulator, which is controlled by a temperature sensor in the pool water and absorber. A precise regulation is extremely important to the performance of the solar unit.
The circulation pump is started should the temperature in the absorber rise to 4° above the temperature of the pool water. It is then switched off should the temperature difference (intake and return of the solar unit (intake = pool water temperature) be more than 1°. A precise sensor and control accuracy is necessary in order to prevent the loss of thermal energy.
The relatively minor manufacturing costs, as well as the high efficiency and operational safety of the unit, make it the most economical and ecological absorber pool heating system available on the market.
Usage of Thermal Solar Energy
The advantages of solar energy are obvious. It is inexhaustible, clean and eco-friendly.
One disadvantage is that it does not live up to its potential in covering the required energy. This is, however, not the case with a solar swimming pool heating system.
The solar energy supply works together with the time frame in which the energy is needed and the pool itself acts as a giant reservoir.
For active thermal usage of the sun’s energy for pool water heating purposes, the plastic absorber, which is installed onto a roof, has proven to be the best available system.
Industrial examples have proven that the long-term solution for pool heating rests in the solar absorber made from high-end EPDM.
What can a solar unit accomplish? What can’t it accomplish?
What can it accomplish?
It can deliver 300-350kwh thermal energy per square meter of absorber area during the swimming season.
Extend the swimming season.
Make the water temperature more comfortable.
Greatly reduce pool fuel costs offering economic and ecological advantages in all areas.
Increase the attractively of the pool which increases visitor numbers and frequency.
What can’t it accomplish?
It cannot guarantee specific, even, normal (i.e. 23°) temperatures without addition heating options throughout the swimming season.
Solar schemes
- Standard model
- Model with heat exchanger
