How to Build a Very Simple Small Solar Pool Heater

Sunlight is one of the most abundant resources we have.

The most attractive thing about solar energy is that, once your infrastructure for harnessing it is in place, it is absolutely free. There are two types of solar energy systems: photovoltaic and thermal. Photovoltaic systems incorporate more complicated and expensive solar panels that generate electricity, while thermal systems simply use the power of the sun to heat water or air. A very simple setup can give you heated water for your pool.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2-inch CPVC pipe and fittings
• CPVC pipe cement
• Water pump and filter
• Black spray paint
• Pipe clamps
• 1-inch wood screws
• Silicon rubber

Send to Phone

Brought to you by

Send to Phone

Please enter your 10 digit phone number only.

Send

A link to this article has been sent to the phone number provided.

Close

Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. Message and data rates may apply.

Instructions

1. Install the water pump with a pipe to suck water out of your pool. Install the filter on the end so that it does not suck up any objects that will clog the pump.

2. Run a water line from the pump to the outer wall of your house. Continue to run the line up your wall and fasten it there with the clamps and wood screws.

3. Continue the line to your roof. Use your spray paint to paint the CPVC pipe black. Make the line "zig-zag" several times across your roof.

4. Run the water line back down the side of your house and into your pool.

Tips & Warnings

• When you paint the pipe on the roof black, do not paint the areas where you will be applying pipe cement, as this could cause the cement to have trouble adhering to the surface of the pipe.

• Be careful while working on your roof. If possible, wear a safety harness.

References

• Southface: How Solar Thermal and Photovoltaics Work