Solarized swimming: let the sun heat your pool for next to nothing

Journal Article · Thu Apr 01 04:00:00 EST 1982 · Rodale's New Shelter; (United States)

OSTI ID:5564960

Langa, F S

Means are discussed for using solar energy to provide a comfortable temperature (75/sup 0/ to 85/sup 0/F) in the residential swimming pool. Means of heat escape from a swimming pool are given (10% radiation, 5% conduction, 20% convection, and 65% evaporation). Heating the 20,000 gallons of water in an average sized pool by conventional means can be prohibitively expensive. The advantages of using a clear pool cover to cut heat losses (largely by evaporation) are stressed. Costs and materials of covers are discussed. Coupled with the use of a pool cover, a solar heating unit is recommended. A typical unit is illustrated in which the solar flat-plate collectors are installed on a nearby garage or cabana roof. In a typical pool, a large part of the plumbing is already installed. Sources for additional information on solar heaters for swimming pools are given and typical energy savings for a pool equipped with cover and a solar heating system are tabulated for various areas of the country. (MJJ)

• OSTI ID: 5564960
• Journal Information: Rodale's New Shelter; (United States), Journal Name: Rodale's New Shelter; (United States) Vol. 3:4; ISSN RNSHD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140901* -- Solar Thermal Utilization-- Space Heating & Cooling
BUILDINGS
COVERINGS
ECONOMICS
ENERGY CONSERVATION
ENERGY LOSSES
EQUIPMENT
FLAT PLATE COLLECTORS
HEAT LOSSES
HEATING
LOSSES
RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SOLAR HEATING
SOLAR WATER HEATING
SURFACE WATERS
SWIMMING POOLS
WATER HEATING