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Need help?Do you have a question about the SUNHEATER S220P and is the answer not in the manual?
The SunHeater Solar Heating System is designed to warm aboveground swimming pools by harnessing solar energy, offering an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to extend your swimming season without incurring fuel costs. This system utilizes your existing pool pump to circulate water through specially designed solar collectors, where it absorbs heat from the sun before returning to the pool.
The core function of the SunHeater system is to transfer solar energy directly to your pool water. When the pool pump is running, water is drawn from the pool and directed through the solar collectors. These collectors are made from tough polypropylene material, engineered with a tube and web design that effectively traps heat and captures sunlight as the sun moves across the sky. As water flows through the many tubes within the collector, it gradually heats up. The warmed water is then returned to the pool through your existing return lines, creating a continuous heating cycle. The system is designed to raise pool temperatures by approximately 10°F (6°C) during the swimming season, making your pool more comfortable for use. For optimal performance, the collectors should be exposed to at least 6 hours of full sunlight daily. If mounted on an angle, such as on a roof or a rack, they should ideally face in a southerly direction to maximize sun exposure. The system operates most effectively on sunny days; during cloudy or rainy weather, or at night, it is recommended to bypass the solar system to avoid cooling the pool water.
The SunHeater system is designed for straightforward use with aboveground pools. It leverages your existing pool pump, eliminating the need for a separate, dedicated pump. A standard 1 HP pump is typically sufficient for installations up to 30 feet (9 meters) away from the pool equipment and one story high. To ensure adequate flow, the collectors should feel cool to the touch when water is circulating through them on a warm, sunny day, indicating efficient heat transfer.
Installation can be done either on the ground or on a rack/roof. For ground installations, two hoses are required: one to connect the pool equipment to the collector and another to return water from the collector back to the pool. For rack or roof mounting, the SunHeater Mounting Kit SK-43 is necessary, securing up to two S220 collectors. In high-wind areas, an additional SK-34 High Wind Kit is recommended for each collector to ensure stability. The collectors are designed with specific slots for mounting, and it is crucial to use only the factory-approved mounting kits to maintain the warranty. Small holes visible in the collector are part of the manufacturing process and should not be used for mounting.
The system can be configured for single, two, or three collectors in series, depending on the size of your pool and desired heating capacity. When plumbing multiple collectors, connector hoses are provided. For winterization, it is essential to drain all water from the solar system to prevent freeze damage, which is not covered under warranty. This involves removing the white end caps at both the top and bottom of the system, allowing all water to drain, and then blowing pressurized air through the system. After draining, the bottom end cap should be removed and stored for re-use in the spring. Collectors can remain in place during winter if completely drained, but storing them in a warm, dry place is recommended for longevity.
Maintenance of the SunHeater system is minimal, focusing primarily on proper installation and winterization. The polypropylene material of the collectors is designed to be tough and resistant to rust, corrosion, and scaling, contributing to the system's durability. The collector's reversible design also adds to its versatility and lifespan.
In the event of a leak, the system offers a simple on-site repair method. If a leak develops in a riser tube, it can be isolated by carefully cutting away approximately 1 inch (25 mm) of the tube at both headers using a sharp utility knife. A #10 sheet metal screw (preferably stainless steel) is then driven into the hole in the header, ensuring it is between 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) and 3/4 inch (19 mm) long. It is important not to overtighten the screw to avoid stripping the hole; if stripping occurs or the repair leaks, a #12 screw can be used. This repair method does not void the collector warranty, provided the leak is not due to freeze damage or other non-warranted causes.
Regular operation involves circulating water through the collectors for at least 6 hours during daylight hours on sunny days. If the pump needs to run at night or on chilly/overcast days, the solar system should be bypassed to prevent cooling the pool water. Upon initial start-up, it is normal to observe air bubbles coming through the return hose; these will cease once all air has been purged from the system. Checking for leaks and tightening connections as needed is part of the start-up process. Proper care and adherence to winterization guidelines are key to ensuring many years of enjoyment from your solar collectors.
General| Type | Solar Pool Heater |
|---|---|
| Material | Polypropylene |
| Fuel Type | Solar |
| Efficiency | 80% |
| Installation | Roof Mounted |
| Water Flow Rate | 40 GPM |
