2 Panels Instead Of 3?

[CarlD]

If I have them at a 45 angle, wouldn't that heat the water better than on the ground? The panels will face south west and will get direct sun most of the day. I was hoping for less panels cuz I still need to buy the solar reel which will run over $300.

That depends on how they are exposed. If they are FULLY exposed to the sun, it doesn't matter if they are flat or angled. You only need to angle them if they don't get full sun otherwise. But the ground is your friend: It asks as a giant heat sink and storage device that allows you to continue to use your panels after the sun passes. Besides, a rack costs money as well. You can always add that if you need to.