Factors that Effect How Solar Energy Heats Your Pool

Factor 1: What is the ideal orientation for my solar panels?
An effective solar pool heating system can be installed for almost any pool. FAFCO Tampa can determine the ideal installation for your individual home and pool configuration. In addition to where you live, there are a number of factors to consider when optimizing a solar pool heating system.
Go?	Orientation	Explanation
	South	The ideal orientation for your solar panels is a south-facing pitched roof, near the pool, with enough space for mounting the required number of panels.
	West	An installation on a west-facing roof works well for summer heating, in some installations the panel area may need to be increased.
	East	Eastern exposures tend to be less effective and, therefore, less economical. Increasing the panel area is the recommended approach for an eastern orientation.
	North	Northern exposures are not usually recommended, except in certain areas of the country.

Fortunately, the modular nature of the solar panel makes it easy to tailor the system to a specific site. Be certain that the orientation you select is not shaded by trees or other structures. Remember, the effectiveness of a solar system is directly dependent on the amount of direct sunlight that the panels receive.

Your FAFCO Tampa representative can work with you to identify the ideal orientation and location for your solar pool heating system.

Factor 2: What is the best inclination for the solar panels?
Season	Inclination
Year-Round	Equal to the latitude of installation. For example, the panels for an installation in Tampa, Florida would be at 27 degrees of an angle since Tampa is located at 27 degrees latitude.
Summer	Equal to the latitude minus 10 to 15 degrees.
Winter	Equal to the latitude plus 10 to 15 degrees.
The inclination of the solar panels is less important than their orientation. However, the inclination should always exceed 10 degrees to ensure proper drainage.

Factor 3: How many panels will I need?
The "rule of thumb" for sizing a swimming pool solar heating system 50% to 100% of the pool's surface area in solar panels. For example, a 480 square foot pool (32 feet by 15 feet) needs 240 to 480 square feet of solar panel area.