Solar heater experiences?

[abadubs]

Your 4x12 is little more than half of our typical 2x20's. A 4x20 is really 2 panels of 2x20 connected. For a 27' AG we use 3 2x20's. A 4th would warm things up quicker, but for now we'll stick with the space/cost of the 3. They only lasted 2 years and got many leaks so now we're stuck replacing them, but it's still cheaper than a gas unit. Plus in WI I imagine our nights get cooler.

[cleancloths]

Make sure you cover the pool at night to prevent heatloss. If you do you should be ok with less. Nice thing is you can start with fewer and if needed just add more - no wasted money.

[tphaggerty]

4x12 are standard size for roof mounted solar as are 4x10 and (depending on the maker) 4x16. These flow bottom to top, not U shaped. You can also often get odd sized units if the factory is in production, I was able to get 4x14's for my main roof, gave me some extra coverage at a minimum cost.

I have 2 banks, 5 4x12 panels on the garage roof and 7 2/3 4x14 panels on the main roof (the 2/3 panel is cut and plugged to go around a vent).

That gives me about 600 sq ft for a 20x40 IG. I LIKE having lots of solar - it extends my season significantly AND having more can dramatically improve the recovery time. For instance, we had rain which drove the temp in the pool from around 78 to 70. One day of moderate sun and we were back to 75 - can't do that with small spreads.

Additional panels are generally a small part of the overall budget. If you have the space and like warm water, then add more panels!

[freddyttt]

How/where can i go to get more information on these panals and how to hook them up.

inground 11,000 gallons pool, full sun.

[tphaggerty]

www.solarindustries.com. I think funfromthesun.com as well. Fafco makes similar panels as does Heliocol. They are all basically the same design. Solar Industries is located somewhere in NJ so it is easy for installers around here to get stock or custom panels.