How do solar pool heating systems work?
For most residential pools, the solar system operates directly with the existing pool pump and filter. Today’s most efficient systems employ the use of an automatically controlled diverting valve. The pool’s filtration system is set to run during the period of most intense sunshine. During this period, when the solar control sensors detect that adequate heat is present in the solar collectors, it causes a motorized diverting valve to turn, forcing the flow of pool water through the solar collectors, where water is heated. The heated water then returns to the pool. When heat is no longer present, the motorized diverter valve turns, and bypasses the solar collector. Thus, most systems have very few moving parts, which minimize operation and maintenance requirements.
