If your pool is not getting warm enough in sunny conditions:

• The filter, skimmer or pump basket may be dirty or clogged – check flow\strength at pool outlets
• The time clock may not be set for best sunshine times of the day
• The thermostat on the automatic solar controller may be set too low
• The solar diverter valve or the ball valve may be closed – check water routing to ensure water is able to flow to the solar panels
• Pump may be weak and not pumping a sufficient volume of water
• Early/late season months may require a thermal blanket to prevent night-time heat loss
• Additional collectors may be necessary

Note: In general, it takes 3-5 days of consistent sunny weather for the pool to warm to a desired seasonal solar heated temperature

Constant bubble in pool when solar is on

Note: Every time the solar system turns on, the pump purges all the air from the system producing a large amount of bubbles, which should completely subside within 2-4 minutes. However, if you see a constant stream of bubbles throughout the day, this indicates a problem not necessarily related to your solar system. One potential reason may be not enough water flow to the solar collectors. Insufficient flow through the panels will draw air into the system through the vacuum breaker, as the water falls from the panels quicker than the water being pumped to the roof. By the way, if your solar collectors are indeed starved for water flow, they are very likely not delivering much heat to your pool (and while it may seem contrary to common sense, water coming out of the pool return line outlets in this situation will actually feel very warm to the touch).

Filter Pressure is Too High or Too Low

Check the filter pressure with the solar off and again with the solar on. It is common for the filter pressure to raise 8-10 pounds when pumping water to the panels.

• If the pressure is high (30 pounds or more) and does not increase with the solar on, this indicates that the filter needs cleaning
• If the filter pressure is abnormally low (10 pounds or less) and does not rise when the solar is activated, check the pool skimmer and pump basket for debris. If there are no restrictions, your pump may be weak and need to be replaced..
• If the filter pressure is normal with the solar off and increases 15 pounds or more with the solar activated, this indicates that the solar panels may be clogged with debris due to a break in the filter grid. If so, have your filter dismantled and repaired. Then call Sky Power Systems for servicing a clogged system.