The high cost of keeping a swimming pool warm in the UK is no secret. Between rising energy prices and the sheer volume of water to heat, traditional gas or oil boilers are becoming a luxury most would rather live without.
Meanwhile, a solar thermal heater, with a one-time investment, can save up to 70% on your energy cost for up to 20 years with almost no maintenance, hassle, or cost.
That is what MAK Energy believes: heating a swimming pool should not involve a massive monthly bill. Instead, it must be handled with a smart, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution.
Solar thermal heating lets you harness the sun’s energy and pump it directly into your pool, keeping the water at a perfect temperature without environmental or financial guilt.
Why a Solar Thermal Heating System Is Better Than a Boiler
If you look at traditional heaters used to heat water, they work by burning fuel to create heat, a process that is as inefficient as it is expensive.
On the other hand, solar thermal technology works in the opposite way. Instead of generating heat, it collects heat from the sun and warms the water.
By installing collectors on your roof or near the pool, you tap into an almost free, infinite energy source.
Even in the UK, where the sun likes to play hide-and-seek, these systems are designed to capture ambient radiation.
For an outdoor pool used primarily in the summer, this setup can cover up to 80% of your heating needs, which means you can save your backup heater for the absolute coldest days.
How does a Swimming pool get heated in a solar thermal heating system?
The process is elegant in its simplicity. Your existing pool pump directs water toward the solar collectors. As the water passes through these panels, the sun’s rays warm it up, much like a garden hose left out on a hot day.
This warmed water then cycles back into the pool. To keep things running smoothly, we integrate sensors that monitor the temperature. If the panels aren’t warm enough to add heat, the system simply bypasses them, ensuring you aren’t accidentally cooling your pool on a cloudy afternoon.
What types of modern technology can you use in a Solar Thermal Heating System?
Solar technology has evolved far beyond the clunky, fragile designs of the past. Today’s systems are sleek, durable, and designed to last 20 to 25 years while operating almost silently. Depending on your pool type and how often you swim, there are several ways to capture that warmth.
Solar Thermal Matting
This is the most straightforward entry point for summer swimmers. These mats consist of UV-stabilized PVC strips that connect directly to your filtration plant.
As the water flows through the thin channels in the matting, it absorbs the sun’s heat quickly. It’s an ideal way to bump your pool temperature up by several degrees without any ongoing maintenance costs.
Flat Plate Collectors
These are the stalwarts of the industry. A flat plate collector uses a dark absorber plate protected by a transparent glass cover.
This glazed design creates a greenhouse effect, trapping heat and preventing it from escaping back into the air. They are particularly effective for UK gardens because they continue to perform well even when there is a bit of a breeze.
Evacuated Tube Systems
If you have an indoor pool or want to swim well into the autumn, vacuum tubes are the premium choice. These collectors use glass tubes with a vacuum seal to eliminate heat loss entirely.
While they are often used for domestic hot water because they can reach very high temperatures, they are incredibly efficient at keeping a pool steady at 26–28°C regardless of the outside air temperature.
Solar Pods and Domes
For those with limited space, pods offer a clever, modular solution. These compact domes house coiled piping that acts as a miniature furnace. You can start with one and simply add more as needed.
Because they are ground-based and portable, they work perfectly for both in-ground and above-ground pools, giving you flexibility that roof-mounted panels cannot.
Where is the best place for a Solar Thermal Heating system for pool installation?
Efficiency isn’t just about the panels; it is about where they sit. To get the most out of your investment, we look for south-facing roof space within 30 meters of your pool filtration system.
This proximity prevents heat from escaping through long pipe runs. We also ensure that the materials used—from the PVC piping to the stainless steel fittings, are built to handle the specific chemical environment of a swimming pool.
The result is a system that doesn’t just work; it lasts for decades with minimal intervention.
Get reliable solar pool heating today
Stop letting your energy bills dictate when you can enjoy your pool. At MAK Energy, we help UK homeowners take control of their comfort with professional, high-efficiency solar installations that stand the test of time.
Take the first step toward a more sustainable and cost-effective pool. Call our expert team on +44 (0) 1268 761336 or contact us at info@makenergy.com for a free site visit
FAQs
How long does it take to see a return on investment?
Most homeowners see their solar thermal system pay for itself in fuel savings within three to five years, depending on pool size and usage.
Will it work on a typical cloudy British day?
Yes, modern collectors are designed to absorb diffuse radiation, meaning they still harvest energy even when the sun isn’t directly visible.
Can I install this on an existing pool?
Absolutely. We specialize in retrofitting solar thermal systems into your current filtration circuit with very little disruption to your garden.
Does the system require a lot of upkeep?
Not at all. Aside from a quick visual check and ensuring the panels stay clear of debris, these systems are virtually maintenance-free.
