Heatseeker UniPanel®
Solar Pool Heating
04
Installation and Connection
Safety
Falls from heights can result in serious injury or death
Full attention must be paid to safe working practices at all times. Solar heating
systems are usually installed on an elevated structure and unless you have
the appropriate safety equipment for working at heights, you should employ
someone with experience and equipment to complete the installation for you.
Solar Location
When choosing the appropriate roof to position the solar collectors, the following important
things need to be considered:
1. Roof Orientation
The ideal roof in the Southern hemisphere varies slightly depending on location but as a rule
of thumb a North, West or flat roof is acceptable.
2. Shade
Try to avoid positioning the solar collectors on a roof that is going to be shaded heavily
throughout the day. The best solar gains are made three hours either side of solar noon,
9am - 3pm or 10am - 4pm during day light savings for a North facing roof. Shading outside
these hours will have minimal effect on the overall performance.
If they are going to be shaded at some time during the day, then a larger collector can be
fitted to compensate.
3. Position Solar Close to Pool Equipment
Shorter pipe runs require less pumping power and reduce installation costs. Long runs up to
50 metres have minimal effects on solar performance.
4. Size Of Roof
Will the solar system fit on the roof? This has to be established from the ground or a ladder
with OH & S Regulations preventing access to the roof without a harness or rail system. A
quick measurement in most cases can be taken at ground level.