Question regarding solar Heater and diverter kit.

[stallzer]

Hello, I purchased a new 18' intex above ground pool for the kids this summer and it's been a struggle to keep the water temp at an acceptable level. I upgraded the intex supplied filter / pump with a 1HP filter / pump and the Pool is much cleaner. I also purchased a solar heater kit with 2 - 2' X 20' Panels (So they call them) the directions state that a diverter kit is needed for 1HP pumps or larger. I have ordered one but for the life of me I can't see the need for this other than to bypass the solar tubes when the Pool water is warm enough, am I missing something ? Or is there something that this diverter valve does to regulate the flow ?

Thanks, Rob

[PoolDoc]

Most likely, the solar units you have can't accept the full flow from your pump, without being damaged. So, they want only PART of your flow to go through them -- this will NOT reduce the amount of heat you gain.

[stallzer]

Thanks Ben, now I'm glad I didn't hook up the 1Hp pump to it and decided to wait out the diverter delivery.