Question:
I am looking for plans to build a solar heater for my above ground
>swimming pool...anyone have any info?
Answer:
My first recommendation for any pool, especially above-ground pools,
is to use a solar blanket - at least at night to keep the heat in. If
you're not using a solar blanket - forget about using a solar system.
Above ground pools are seldom heated, let alone solar heated. Unless
they are buried, or partially buried in the ground, they lose a
significant amount of heat from their sides, as well as from the
surface of the water. As a result they cool off quickly - but - they
also warm up quickly (on warm days).
Solar is the most expensive type of pool heater to install - and the
cheapest one to operate ($0). However that initial cost would likely
be several times the cost of the above gound pool, so the economics
don't look that great - unless you're bound and determined to heat it
with something - like gas or electricity.
