Where do the panels go in relation to the plumbing of the pool?

When you set up your system there is a specific order to the installation:

1. Pump
2. Filter
3. Control Valve
4. Solar Panels
5. Auxillary Heater
6. Salt or Chlorination System
7. Pool

It is really important to have the filter before the solar panels:

* dirty water going through the panels will clog the system

* The filter evens out the pressure and sends the water up through the panels evenly.

What are the panels made of? 

Our panels are the most durable solar panel on the market.  Our core material is advanced Solarprene, resistant to UV rays, chemicals and ozone.

What are the black specks floating in my pool?

 
This may be caused by water remaining stagnant in the system, which causes bacterial growth (black in
colour). It is not the panels disintegrating. It often occurs where there are high iron levels in the
water, and in areas that get very hot in the summer months. (note: see section on Summerization)
Solution:
1. Install an in-line filter in the return line (available at pool stores and service centers)
2. Circulate the water through the system daily.
3. Install a drain down valve to keep the panels dry when not in use.
4. Flush the system with a high liquid chlorine bleach solution held in the original filter and run the
pipes in a loop going between the current filter and the panels as long as necessary, drain and repeat.
5. If you have an activated carbon filter, check that it is not backwashing into the system.

How do I winterize my ENERSOL system?

Winterization for your system must be done after your pool is closed. Follow these steps BEFORE freezing
temperatures begin:
1. 3 way valves MUST be turned so that all three ports are open. On motorized valves, turn switch to TEST. Let the valve turn halfway between and off. Pull out the electrical cord. This will prevent
water from becoming trapped in the valve.
2. Look for any threaded, removable end-caps on the roof and open them WITHOUT DISTURBING THE TOP AND BOTTOM ROWS OF HEADERS, work your way along the panels and gently lift the rubber from top to bottom. If in doubt, you can open a section and drain out excess water. Blowing the lines with a shop vac, or compressor may NOT remove water properly.
3. Open all end caps at down pipes, pump house and blow any underground lines. Generally, make sure that no water remains in any low pipes, sags in pipes, valleys or any part of the system. Re-attach the end caps to ensure that nothing gets into the headers during the winter.
4. A general inspection of the roof at this time is wise. Check for loose lag bolts and strapping. Remove leaves and debris that might block the run-off of rain water or snow.

How do I summerize my ENERSOL system?

When the system is exposed to temperatures in excess of 150 degrees F. and water IS NOT circulating through the system, the use of a DRAIN DOWN VALVE and a ONE WAY CHECK VALVE is necessary.  It is important to remember that in prolonged periods of inactivity, the system MUST BE DRY.  Non-circulating water left in extreme heat over extended periods of time may become stagnant and promote bacterial growth.

What do I need to install the panels?

When you purchase ENERSOL panels, a system kit is necessary to assemble the panels.  Only one kit per installation is required.  Some tools that are useful:  variable speed drill, 3/8" socket driver, chalk line, level, tape measure, hacksaw, utility knife. ladder and safety equipment.

How much do the panels weigh?

The 4X10' panels weigh 35 pounds dry and 63 pounds when full of water.

The 4X8' panels weigh 30 pounds dry and 45 pounds when full of water.

How many BTUs can the panels produce?

Based on  lab conditions over a 10 hour day in Florida using a 4' X 10' panel:

814 BTUs per square foot were produced.

How much heat can I expect?

The properly sized panels can increase your pool temperature by 2-3 degrees for each cycle.  (all the pool water passes through the panels.)  Depending on your pump this may be 4-6 cycles per day.

How many boxes can I put in each array?

When you set up your panels, we recommend that you put no more than 7 boxes (28 sections) in each array.

If your pool requires more than 7 boxes, set them up in equal arrays, example 10 boxes should be set up in two arrays of 5 boxes each.  If you are setting up multiple arrays you will need extra parts, not included in your system kit.  For each array you will need 2 end caps. 

Each system kit comes with 2 end caps, so order extra end caps depending on your system when purchasing your panels.