How to Repair a Solar Heater for a Pool
Having a solar heater to heat your pool has many advantages. It can be clean, economical and long-lasting with proper maintenance. However, because of exposure to the elements, these heaters are prone to damage, and repair bills can get expensive. Learning to repair some of the potential breakdowns of your solar heater yourself can help you to avoid these costs. A few problem areas that are easily fixed include the collector shading and soiling, plumbing and heater fluids. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Solar heater manual
- Mild soap, if needed
- Water, if needed
- Bucket, if needed
- Antifreeze solution, if needed
Instructions
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1
Inspect the collector for dirt and debris. Over time, buildup of dust and grime can affect the overall performance of the heater. Carefully clean the collector with warm, soapy water.
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2
Check the collector for any shading that is occurring from surrounding objects. If possible, move the obstacle or, if necessary, the heater itself. This is ensuring optimal sun energy collection.
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3
Inspect all plumbing surrounding the heater. Make sure all joints are tight and don't leak. You should also check the duct work and insulation.
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Check the levels of your antifreeze solution if you have a liquid-based solar heating unit. Read the manual to find out the best way to add or replace fluid.
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Tips & Warnings
Inspect your solar heater periodically to help keep small problems from escalating into larger ones. Good times to do this include the beginning, middle and end of the pool season.
If any problems arise, consult your individual heater's manual for troubleshooting. If the job requires more than a few simple steps, it may be time to call the repairman.
