In terms of artificially heating a pool you can purchase an electronic heating system from your local pool store. But don't be disappointed if they don't have anything for you, many pool models differ in terms of their design and dimensions. You should also get a consultation before agreeing to install anything. For small pools I've seen great results with electronic heating systems.
The next option that you have is, as you mentioned, a solar cover. These use the sun's energy to convert that energy into heat for your pool. The first thing you have to do is know the size of your pool. Note all dimensions regarding the sides of the pool and how much water capacity the pool holds. Next, go to the local pool store and ask them about solar covers. Give them the information on your pool and they'll give you some various options for a solar cover. Once you order one and it is delivered you'll have to install it. Some pool places offer to do this for a charge or as part of a sales deal they may offer to install it for free. But if you do need to install it yourself be sure to follow all of the directions carefully. Since every solar cover isn't the same I can't give you any specifics on how it should be installed. But should you run across any problems during instalation or even during use contact the store from which you bought it and they'll take care of it from there. Also note that solar covers heat pools unevenly; they may leave the top very hot and the bottom very cold. You may need to walk/swim around in circles before fully enjoying a pool with a solar cover.
The last option that you have is a chemical heater. These are also sold at pool stores and they can do a decent job of increasing the temperature of the water. Generally you put a floating device into the pool (it's sometimes sold in the form of a fish with a dark colored liquid inside). Follow the directions on the label but generally what you do is you pull out a tab and let it float in the water for a while and after at most an hour it's done, but then you have to stay out of the water for a while from the chemicals that it put into the water.
But economically speaking I'd say the chemical stuff is the best bet since it may only cost $5 for a cheap one (but you'll have to pay more for a better product obviously, it's like the plastic water guns kids play with; the higher the price the longer it'll last).
2007-03-03 09:42:07
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answer #1
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answered by I want my *old* MTV 6
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The simplest way is often the cheapest. Solar heating is both and you can do it with the minimum of equipment.
Flat black absorbs heat the best. Place a black mat (or on blacktop if you have the room) in a sunny area. (many places use the back portion of the roof for this. Weight is an issue so your roof has to be sound, solid and secure) Run a black 1/2" water hose, 200' to 300' long, from the pool pump IN side to the pool pump OUT side. As the pump filters and pumps the water the sun heats it and returns it to the pool.
If electricity for the pump is an issue, same black mat or space, in the sun, slightly elevated on one end, both ends of the hose in the pool and use a small solar pump. This will run water slowly and will heat up quite quickly. The pump and panel should be less than $200 and will pay for themselves in less than one month.
The smaller the diameter the hose the better as the water heats faster and hotter. Also the longer the better because it heats for a longer time.
2007-03-03 16:44:56
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answer #2
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answered by Sarge1572 5
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You get a small pump from sears with a 2" discharge hose. Then you get about 150 feet more black plastic discharge hose. you put a dark tarp next to the pool on a sunny day and coil the black discharge hose on it with the end back at the pool.
put the pump in the water and turn it on. The sun will heat the hose and the water from the pool will be heated as it passes through the discharge hose back to the pool. Its a form of solar heater.
2007-03-03 16:39:46
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answer #3
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answered by Anonymous
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You can put a solar cover on it in the summer time, that heats it a bit. Most pool heaters are powered by propane, and it's pretty common. If you want to more econimical with your pool, you can try powering your pool with solar panels (i've seen it done) but they are pretty up there in price for good ones. good luck
2007-03-03 16:35:51
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answer #4
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answered by Kurt 2
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run a garden hose on your roof just coil it up all over it will warm the water in the hose the fastest way would probally hook it up to your hot water heater imm not sure how to make but you can buy solar covers maybe try some of that bubble wrap stuff
2007-03-03 16:40:30
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answer #5
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answered by wildrice64 4
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solar heater? Don't got a clue. Economically... the sun.
2007-03-03 18:24:49
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answer #6
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answered by DELVA T 1
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PUT HOT WATER IN IT DER
2007-03-03 16:31:49
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answer #7
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answered by raze 2
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