Choosing from Open Loop and Closed Loop Solar Pool Heating Systems

When it comes to investing in solar pool heaters, you need to choose between an open loop and a closed loop system. Both systems work efficiently to get the job done and are specific to the individual requirements of both commercial and residential pool owners.

The solar-powered systems will save you money through electricity bills and help you reduce your carbon footprint. With the advancement in technology, people are looking for new efficient ways to use the natural resources available to them. Hence, you should switch to a solar pool heating system to turn heat energy from the sun to heat your pool at the desired temperature for you and your family.

Understanding the Differences Between Both Systems -

Open Loop Solar Pool Heating System

An open-loop solar pool heater helps in heating water directly from the pool when you add it to the existing loop system. During the operation, the water circulates through the solar collectors in the existing filter and heating loop. When the energy is required for heating the pool, the water will flow inside the filter and existing heating heater and then top up which is needed for heating water to the desired temperature.

If the solar system is providing the much-required temperature, you won’t require a secondary backup heater. When your pool is at the needed temperature, the system bypasses the solar loop to prevention against overheating.

Advantages –

• Lower installation costs

Disadvantages –

• Less accuracy and reliability
• More energy consumption by pool heating pump
• Unable to work in cloud or cold weather
• Damaged by harmful chemicals or saltwater
• Frequent leakage and damaged roof

Closed Loop System –

A closed-loop pool heating system is a pressurized system that separates from the pool loop. Rather than using water, the fluid present in the solar collectors is an eco-friendly antifreeze solution that contains water, propylene, and glycol. The solution circulates throughout the collectors and transfers the heat energy to the pool water through a titanium or stainless steel heat exchanger.

The pool circuits are connected in parallel through the heat exchanger where the solar energy is transferred to the pool water through the solar collector. The existing heating system supplies any additional energy required before going back to the pool. To prevent the system from overheating, the circulation pump turns off by putting the system into a stagnation state.

The fluid present in the collectors changes its state to steam which is then absorbed by the expansion tank in the loop. This type of system works efficiently in colder climates and year-round pools as well as indoor solar pool heating installations.

Advantages –

• More reliability and accuracy
• Smaller circulation pump and usage of less energy
• Useful year-round for indoor and outdoor operation
• Easy integration into multiple systems including in-floor radiant DHW
• Longer life expectancy
• No interaction with pool chemicals

Disadvantage –

Higher initial cost

Conclusion –

When deciding which solar pool heating system works for you, it comes down to the factors that depend on what is best for your setup. If you have to pick up the system which is the most reliable and uses advanced solar technology, the closed-loop system must be the choice.

Shop for the closed loop solar pool heaters from Northern Lights Solar Tubs and consider heating your pool by using the highly advanced and efficient technology ensuring maximum profits and optimal return on your investment. For more details, feel free to get in touch with us at 1-800-759-8990.