How Much Does A Solar Pool Heater Cost?
On average, the installation cost of a solar pool heater ranges from $2,500 to $6,500. A solar pool heating system, on the other hand, typically has a cost range of $2,000 to $5,000, with an additional expense of $500 to $1,500 for installation labor. The total expense for pool solar panels varies based on factors such as the type, size, brand, location, and whether the pool is inground or above-ground.
In sunny regions, solar panels stand out as the most economically efficient method for pool heating, offering the following advantages:
- Operational cost: They typically incur a monthly cost ranging from $10 to $25.
- Temperature increase: Solar panels can raise the pool temperature by 8° to 12° Fahrenheit.
- Heating duration: It takes approximately 1 to 3 days for solar panels to effectively heat a pool.
- Lifespan: Solar panels for pool heating typically last for 15 to 20 years.
- Return on investment: The average payback period for solar pool heating systems falls between 1 and 7 years.
The Typical Installation Cost For a Solar Pool Heater
Factor | Average Cost |
Solar pool heater | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Installation labor | $500 – $1,500 |
Total cost | $2,500 – $6,500 |
Several factors influence the cost of installing a solar pool heater:
- Pool Size: The size of your pool impacts the number of solar collector panels required to reach your desired temperature. Larger pools typically need more panels.
- Weather: Your location and climate affect the air temperature and swimming season length, which in turn determines the number of solar collectors needed.
- Sun Exposure: Homes with optimal sun exposure require fewer panels compared to those with partial shading during the day.
- Collector Type & Efficiency: Glazed collectors are highly efficient but come with a higher installation cost.
- Inground vs. Above-ground Pool: Solar heating for inground pools often involves higher costs.
- Controller Valve: Investing in a flow control valve and automatic diverter valve, which cost between $325 and $600, can enhance efficiency and performance. These devices bypass solar collectors during cloudy or rainy days.
- Incentives: Depending on your location, rebates and tax credits may be available to reduce the overall installation expenses.
- Plumbing: Plumbers typically charge between $45 and $150 per hour. To minimize plumbing costs, consider siting the solar collector panels as close to the pool pump as possible.
Cost of Solar Pool Panels
The cost of pool solar panels, including installation, ranges from $1,000 to $10,000 or more. The specific price depends on the type and size of the panels.
In most regions, propylene mats and unglazed solar panels are the common and sufficient choices for pool heating.
On the other hand, glazed panels, although pricier, offer better performance, especially in colder regions with less direct sunlight.
Type | Average Installed Cost | Description |
Polypropylene mats | $1,000 – $3,000 | Soft, flexible, thermoplastic mat with thin vein-like tubes for water heating. |
Unglazed solar panels | $1,500 – $4,500 | Plastic or heavy-duty rubber box containing vertical tubes where water gathers heat from the sun. |
Glazed solar panels | $3,000 – $10,000 | Iron-tempered box with glass covering containing copper tubing on an aluminum plate for maximum efficiency. |
The average cost of installing solar panels to power an entire house ranges from $10,600 to $26,500. It’s important to note that the solar collectors used for a pool heater are distinct from the solar panels that generate electricity for a home.
List of Pool Solar Heater Prices by Brand
Brand | Price Range | Description |
Heliocol / SunStar | $2,000 – $6,000 | Complete kit with automatic controller |
SwimLux | $3,200 – $7,900 | Complete kit with automatic controller |
Northern Lights / Sunrain | $2,600 – $6,800 | Complete kit with automatic controller |
SwimEasy | $1,500 – $4,200 | Complete kit with manual valve |
Enersol | $1,500 – $4,200 | DIY solar pool heater kit |
SmartPool | $800 – $1,600 | DIY solar pool heater kit |
SunHeater | $800 – $1,500 | DIY solar pool heater kit |
Fafco | $250 – $850 | DIY solar pool heater kit |
Solar Pool Heater Prices According to Thermal Collector Size
Solar pool heaters are designed and priced according to the surface area of the swimming pool they are intended to heat. The appropriate collector size is determined by factors such as the location, climate, sun exposure, and the duration of the swimming season.
Number of 4′ x 10′ Solar Collectors | Pool Surface Area | Estimated System Cost* |
4 | 288 sq.ft. | $1,600 – $4,500 |
6 | 512 sq.ft. | $2,300 – $5,800 |
8 | 648 sq.ft. | $3,000 – $7,200 |
10 | 800 sq.ft. | $3,500 – $8,000 |
Sizing Solar Pool Heaters
The appropriate thermal collector area for your solar pool heater should be:
- 50% of the pool surface area for residences in the southern United States or for homeowners seeking heating during a 3- to 4-month swimming season.
- 75% of the pool surface area for homeowners aiming to extend the summer swimming season to 4 to 6 months.
- 100% of the pool surface area for residences in the northern United States or for homeowners desiring a year-round swimming season.
Solar Pool Cover Pricing
The cost of a solar pool cover typically ranges from $35 to $400, with the price varying depending on the cover’s shape and size. The majority of heat loss from the pool occurs overnight when the surface is exposed. A solar blanket helps mitigate evaporative heat loss, preserving the warmth generated by the solar pool heater during the day.
For added convenience, a solar pool cover reel is available, priced between $180 and $350. It simplifies the process of deploying and retracting the pool cover quickly and efficiently.
Pool Cover Shape | Average Cost |
Round (10′ – 21′) | $35 – $180 |
Round (22′ – 30′) | $125 – $350 |
Oval | $70 – $400 |
Rectangle | $100 – $400 |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Pool Heating
Advantages | Disadvantages |
Inexpensive to operate | Expensive initial installation |
Energy-efficient and environmentally friendly | Prolonged heating time for the pool |
Compatible with existing pool pump | Dependent on sunny weather |
Simple installation with minimal disruption | Solar collector panels occupy roof or yard space and lack aesthetic appeal |
Low maintenance and repair needs | |
Longevity of 15 to 20 years |
Hiring a Solar Pool Heater Installer: What to Keep in Mind
When searching for and hiring a solar pool heater installer in your vicinity, here are some important considerations:
- Obtain at least thre1e in-person estimates to make informed comparisons.
- Prioritize companies with a track record of successfully installing and maintaining solar pool heaters.
- Opt for installers who are affiliated with the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).
- Research their reputation by reading reviews on platforms like Pool Cost Guide and Google.
- Ensure the company is licensed, insured, and bonded for your peace of mind.
- Request a comprehensive written estimate, contract, and warranty before the project commences.
- Be cautious of companies offering the lowest quotes, as it might indicate compromised quality.
- Avoid paying the full amount upfront; instead, follow a payment plan that aligns with the project’s progress.
FAQs:
On average, the installation cost of a solar pool heater ranges from $2,500 to $6,500. A solar pool heating system typically costs between $2,000 and $5,000, with an additional $500 to $1,500 for installation labor. The total expense for pool solar panels varies depending on factors such as the type, size, brand, location, and whether the pool is inground or above-ground.
Solar panels are cost-effective for pool heating in sunny areas due to their low operational costs, which usually range from $10 to $25 per month. They can increase the pool temperature by 8° to 12°F, have a relatively quick heating duration of 1 to 3 days, a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, and offer a reasonable return on investment, typically within 1 to 7 years.
Several factors affect the cost of installing a solar pool heater, including:
- Pool size: Larger pools require more solar collector panels.
- Weather: Location and climate influence the number of collectors needed.
- Sun exposure: Shaded areas require more panels.
- Collector type & efficiency: Glazed panels are efficient but more expensive.
- Inground vs. above-ground pool: Inground pool heating is often costlier.
- Controller valve: Adding a flow control valve and automatic diverter valve can enhance efficiency.
- Incentives: Location-based rebates and tax credits can reduce costs.
- Plumbing: Plumbing costs may vary depending on installation proximity to the pool pump.
Solar pool panels, including installation, range from $1,000 to $10,000 or more. Common types include:
- Polypropylene mats ($1,000 – $3,000): Soft, flexible mats with thin tubes.
- Unglazed solar panels ($1,500 – $4,500): Plastic or rubber boxes with vertical tubes.
Glazed solar panels ($3,000 – $10,000): Glass-covered panels with copper tubing.
The average cost to install solar panels for an entire house ranges from $10,600 to $26,500. Note that these are distinct from solar collectors used for pool heating.
The appropriate thermal collector area for a solar pool heater should be:
- 50% of the pool surface area for those in the southern U.S. or for heating during a 3- to 4-month swimming season.
- 75% of the pool surface area to extend the swimming season to 4 to 6 months.
- 100% of the pool surface area for year-round swimming or in northern regions.
Solar pool covers typically cost between $35 and $400, with prices varying based on size and shape. They help reduce energy costs by minimizing heat loss through evaporation, especially overnight. Additionally, a solar pool cover reel, priced between $180 and $350, can simplify deployment and retraction.
Advantages:
- Inexpensive to operate
- Energy-efficient and eco-friendly
- Compatible with existing pool pumps
- Simple installation and low maintenance
- Long lifespan of 15 to 20 years
Disadvantages:
- Expensive initial installation
- Prolonged heating time
- Dependent on sunny weather
- Collector panels occupy space and may lack aesthetic appeal
Conclusion
The cost of installing a solar pool heater can vary based on several factors, with an average range between $2,500 to $6,500. However, a solar pool heating system, which typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000, can provide an economical and eco-friendly solution for pool heating. Solar panels offer numerous advantages, including cost-effective operation, temperature increases of up to 12°F, and a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. The initial installation cost may be a drawback, but factors like pool size, weather, sun exposure, collector type, and location can influence the final expense. When considering solar pool heating, it’s essential to also think about solar pool covers, which can further enhance efficiency and reduce heat loss. To ensure a successful installation, hiring a reputable installer is crucial, and we recommend following the guidelines provided to make an informed decision. In the end, solar pool heating offers a long-term, sustainable, and cost-effective solution for keeping your pool comfortably warm throughout the swimming season.
