FAQs Archive | Page 5 of 7 | Energy Plus Solar

Q: Can I Use Solar Heating for Both My Swimming Pool and Household Hot Water?

No. A solar heating system for your pool is a closed system that re-circulates the water in your pool. Solar systems for domestic hot water needs are completely different and sold separately.

Q: How Much Does a Solar System Cost to Operate?

Since our FAFCO solar system uses your existing pump to operate, there is no significant incremental operating cost (less than $1 per month). FAFCO’s patented design produces the least amount of head pressure, so your pump will not have to work any harder or longer.

Q: How Effectively Will a Solar System Heat My Pool in the Winter?

FAFCO solar panels are rated the highest of any in the market by independent testing organizations. A properly designed system will allow Florida Solar to provide a written guarantee, ensuring that your pool water will be over 80°F for 10 months of the year. During the coldest weeks of the year (usually January) the air temperature is too cool for most people to enjoy swimming, so the average customer does not miss using their pool when the sun is too low in the sky to produce a really warm pool. The solar heated pool will typically be at least 12-15 degrees warmer than an unheated pool, even in the worst conditions.

Q: Do I Need to Clean the Solar Panels Periodically?

Most of our customers do not clean their solar panels because in most areas of the country, there is sufficient rain to clean the panels. However, if you are in a dusty area (near a busy dirt road, in an urban area, etc.) you may see a performance gain from cleaning the panels monthly. If necessary, a hose stream is usually sufficient for cleaning. Do not walk on or over the panels to clean them. Do not use metal, hard, or abrasive methods for cleaning. Do not spray water on the panels when they are very hot.

Q: Does the Collector Panel Need to Be Mounted on My Roof?

Yes. Because of the proximity between the hot water tank and the solar collector, solar panels are mounted on the roof. We can assist you in selecting the appropriate location during our initial consultation visit.